The Cost of Bleeding

THE COST BLEEDING OF

The Cost of Bleeding

A zine dedicated to exploring the often-overlooked expenses of menstruation and the pressing issue of period poverty.

The EmotionalCost ofMenstruation

BattlingPerceived Imperfections

The hormonal fluctuations accompanying menstruation can trigger changes in one's physical appearance,. Bloating, acne outbreaks, and weight fluctuations are common occurrences that may put individuals into a cycle of selfcriticism.

Societal beauty standards further compound these feelings, promoting an unattainable image of perfection that becomes increasingly elusive during menstruation. The pressure to conform to these ideals heightens feelings of inadequacy and erodes self-confidence, impacting both mental health and interpersonal relationships.

From adolescence onwards, individuals navigating menstruation often find themselves grappling with societal taboos and cultural myths. The hushed tones and discreet packaging surrounding menstrual products only serve to reinforce the idea that menstruation is something to be concealed, fostering feelings of shame and embarrassment. This stigma extends beyond mere discomfort; it breeds a sense of inadequacy and impairs one's self-esteem. The societal message that menstruation is unsanitary or unclean leaves many individuals feeling alienated from their own bodies, fostering negative perceptions of their worth.

Relationships&Communication

The hormonal fluctuations accompanying menstruation can trigger changes in one's physical appearance,. Bloating, acne outbreaks, and weight fluctuations are common occurrences that may put individuals into a cycle of self-criticism.

Societal beauty standards further compound these feelings, promoting an unattainable image of perfection that becomes increasingly elusive during menstruation. The pressure to conform to these ideals heightens feelings of inadequacy and erodes self-confidence, impacting both mental health and interpersonal relationships.

PremenstrualSyndrome(PMS)

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to a combination of physical and emotional symptoms that many individuals experience in the days or weeks leading up to their menstrual period. These symptoms typically subside once menstruation begins. PMS is quite common, affecting a significant portion of menstruating individuals, although the severity and specific symptoms can vary widely from person to person. The symptoms of PMS can include:

1. Mood swings: Feelings of irritability, moodiness, or sadness.

2. Tension or anxiety: Heightened feelings of stress, nervousness, or anxiety.

3. Fatigue: Increased tiredness or low energy levels.

4. Changes in appetite: Cravings for certain foods, overeating, or loss of appetite.

5. Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing unusual dreams.

6.Physical symptoms: Bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, joint or muscle pain, and acne.

PremenstrualDysphoricDisorder(PMDD)

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) characterized by intense mood and physical symptoms that significantly interfere with daily life. PMDD affects a smaller percentage of menstruating individuals compared to PMS, but its symptoms are much more severe and can have a profound impact on mental health and functioning

The symptoms of PMDD are similar to those of PMS but are much more intense and debilitating. They typically occur during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle (the two weeks before menstruation) and improve once menstruation begins. Some common symptoms of PMDD include:

Severe mood swings: Extreme mood changes such as sadness, irritability, anger, or anxiety that interfere with relationships and daily activities.

2.

Depression or feelings of hopelessness: Intense feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or hopelessness that may lead to difficulty functioning.

3.

Severe anxiety or tension: Overwhelming feelings of anxiety, nervousness, or tension that may be accompanied by panic attacks.

4.

5.

Irritability or anger: Intense feelings of irritability, anger, or conflict with others.

Physical symptoms: Severe physical symptoms such as bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, joint or muscle pain, and fatigue.

Headaches

Hormonal fluctuations associatedwith menstruation cantrigger headachesor migrainesin some individuals. These headachesmay bemildorsevere andcaninterfere withdaily functioning.

Heavymenstrual bleedingcanlead toirondeficiency anemiainsome individuals, especiallyifthey haveunderlying conditionssuchas fibroidsor endometriosis.

Anemiacancause symptomssuchas fatigue,weakness, anddizziness

Many eindividuals xperience mbloatingduring enstruation, whichisoften causedbywater retentionand chormonal hanges. Bloatingcan oleadtofeelings fdiscomfort handasenseof eavinessinthe abdomen.

Cramps

Many individuals experience abdominal cramping during menstruation, caused by the uterus contracting to shed its lining. These cramps can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and may be accompanied by lower back pain.

Hormonalchanges andbloodloss during menstruationcan contributeto afeelingsoffatigue lndlowenergy evels.Some mpeoplemayfeel oretiredthan pusualduringtheir eriod,impactingetheirabilityto angageindaily ctivities. Fatigue

Period Pains

Hormonal changes during menstruation canaffect digestionfor some individuals, leadingtosymptoms suchas constipation, diarrhea,or abdominal discomfort.

Usingtampons, pads,menstrual cups,orother menstrualproducts cansometimes causediscomfortor irritation, particularlyifnot usedcorrectlyorif anindividualhas sensitivitiesor allergiestocertain materials.

Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can cause breast tissue to swell and become tender or sore This breast tenderness can range from mild to severe and may persist throughout menstruation.

PolycysticOvarySyndrome(PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects individuals of reproductive age, particularly women. PCOS is characterized by a combination of symptoms related to hormonal imbalances and ovarian dysfunction. While the exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

The key features & symptoms of PCOS include:

Irregular Menstrual Cycles: PCOS often causes irregular menstrual cycles, which may involve infrequent periods, prolonged periods, or unpredictable bleeding. Some individuals with PCOS may also experience amenorrhea, which is the absence of menstruation for several months.

Hyperandrogenism: PCOS is associated with elevated levels of androgens, which are often referred to as male hormones. This can lead to symptoms such as hirsutism (excess hair growth on the face, chest, abdomen, or back), acne, and male-pattern baldness or thinning of hair.

Polycystic Ovaries: Many individuals with PCOS have ovaries that contain numerous small cysts, which are follicles that have not matured properly. Despite the name, not all individuals with PCOS have cysts, and not all ovarian cysts indicate PCOS.

Weight Gain: PCOS is often associated with weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, which can exacerbate hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance.

Insulin Resistance: Many individuals with PCOS have insulin resistance, which means their cells are less responsive to insulin, leading to elevated insulin levels in the blood. Insulin resistance is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Fertility Issues: PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility in women due to irregular ovulation or lack of ovulation. Some individuals with PCOS may also experience difficulty conceiving or recurrent miscarriages

Metabolic Syndrome: PCOS is associated with an increased risk of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, abnormal cholesterol levels, and excess abdominal fat, which collectively increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

Diagnosis of PCOS typically involves a combination of physical exams, medical history assessment, blood tests to measure hormone levels, and imaging tests such as pelvic ultrasound to evaluate the ovaries. Treatment for PCOS focuses on managing symptoms and may include lifestyle modifications (such as diet and exercise), medications to regulate menstrual cycles, hormonal therapy, and fertility treatments for those trying to conceive. Management of PCOS also often involves addressing associated conditions such as insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome to reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, typically on other pelvic organs such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the outer surface of the uterus. In some cases, endometrial tissue can also grow on other organs in the abdominal cavity, such as the bladder or intestines. This misplaced endometrial tissue behaves similarly to the tissue inside the uterus: it thickens, breaks down, and bleeds with each menstrual cycle.

Key characteristics of endometriosis include:

Pain: Endometriosis is often associated with pelvic pain, which may range from mild to severe. The pain can occur before and during menstruation, during intercourse (dyspareunia), during bowel movements or urination, and can be chronic or cyclical in nature.

Menstrual Irregularities: Some individuals with endometriosis may experience irregular menstrual cycles, heavy menstrual bleeding, or spotting between periods.

Infertility: Endometriosis is a common cause of infertility in women. The exact mechanisms by which endometriosis affects fertility are not fully understood, but factors such as inflammation, scarring, and adhesions (abnormal tissue connections) can interfere with ovulation, fertilization, and implantation of the embryo.

Other Symptoms: Endometriosis can also cause other symptoms such as fatigue, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and nausea, particularly during menstruation.

The exact cause of endometriosis is not fully understood, but several theories have been proposed, including retrograde menstruation (where menstrual blood flows backward into the pelvic cavity instead of exiting the body), immune system disorders, hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, and environmental influences.

Diagnosis of endometriosis typically involves a combination of medical history assessment, pelvic examination, imaging tests (such as ultrasound or MRI), and sometimes laparoscopic surgery to visualize and biopsy the endometrial tissue for confirmation.

Treatment for endometriosis focuses on managing symptoms and may include medications to relieve pain and inflammation, hormonal therapies to suppress menstruation and reduce endometrial growth, and surgery to remove endometrial implants, scar tissue, or cysts. In cases where infertility is a concern, fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be recommended. It's important for individuals experiencing symptoms of endometriosis to seek medical evaluation and treatment from healthcare professionals experienced in managing the condition.

ToxicShockSyndrome(TSS)

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition caused by certain strains of bacteria, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria and, less frequently, Streptococcus bacteria. While TSS can occur in both men and women, it has been associated with menstruation, particularly in cases where individuals use high-absorbency tampons, menstrual cups, or other menstrual products.

In the context of menstruation, TSS can occur when menstrual products are left in place for an extended period, allowing bacteria to proliferate and release toxins. These toxins can enter the bloodstream and lead to a severe and rapid onset of symptoms However, it's important to note that TSS can also occur in nonmenstruating individuals, such as those with skin wounds or infections.

Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome can include:

1. High fever

2 Sudden onset of flu-like symptoms such as headache, muscle aches, and fatigue

3 Vomiting or diarrhea

4. Rash resembling sunburn, particularly on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet

5. Low blood pressure

6. Seizures or confusion

If left untreated, TSS can progress rapidly and lead to severe complications, including organ failure and even death. Therefore, prompt medical attention is crucial if TSS is suspected.

Preventive measures to reduce the risk of TSS associated with menstruation include:

1. Using menstrual products with the lowest absorbency necessary to manage menstrual flow.

2 Changing tampons, menstrual cups, or pads frequently, typically every 4 to 8 hours, even if they are not full.

3. Alternating between tampons and pads throughout the menstrual period.

4. Avoiding leaving tampons or menstrual cups in place overnight, if possible.

5. Practicing good hygiene, including washing hands before and after inserting or removing menstrual products.

It's essential for individuals who experience symptoms of TSS, especially during or shortly after menstruation, to seek immediate medical attention. TSS is a medical emergency and requires prompt treatment with antibiotics and supportive care to prevent complications.

Companies'confidentialfiles Differentfromdistribution

The data is correct as of May 2023.

Source: https://plushcare.com/blog/cost-of-your-period/

PeriodPoverty

Periodpoverty,aglobalissueaffectingmillionsofindividuals,occurswhenpeople cannotaccessoraffordadequatemenstrualhygieneresources,includingproducts, facilities,andeducation.

Causes

Socioeconomic Inequality: Economic disparities can prevent individuals from purchasing menstrual products regularly, particularly in lowincome households or marginalized communities

Lack of Access to Healthcare: Limited access to reproductive healthcare services can hinder individuals from addressing underlying menstrual health issues, including menstrual disorders, infections, and reproductive health complications.

Stigma and Shame: Cultural taboos and societal stigma surrounding menstruation can perpetuate silence, shame, and secrecy, making it difficult for individuals to seek support or access resources

Policy Gaps: Inadequate policies and lack of government support can exacerbate inequalities in access to menstrual hygiene resources, particularly in regions with limited infrastructure or resources.

Effects

Health Risks: Limited access to menstrual products and hygiene facilities can lead to health risks such as infections, reproductive tract infections (RTIs), urinary tract infections (UTIs), and even toxic shock syndrome (TSS)

Education Disruption: Missing school due to menstruation can impact academic performance, leading to absenteeism, lower educational attainment, and reduced future opportunities for individuals, particularly girls and young women.

Economic Consequences: Lost income and productivity due to menstruation-related issues can perpetuate cycles of poverty and economic instability, hindering individuals' ability to thrive economically and contribute to their communities.

Mental Health Effects: Stigma, shame, and embarrassment surrounding menstruation can contribute to psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, impacting individuals' overall well-being.

Solutions

Subsidized or Free Menstrual Products: Governments, NGOs, and community organizations can implement initiatives to provide subsidized or free menstrual products, including pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and period underwear, to individuals in need.

Comprehensive Healthcare Services: Ensuring access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare services, including menstrual health education, screenings, and treatments, can empower individuals to manage menstruation safely and healthily.

Education and Awareness: Promoting menstrual education and destigmatizing conversations about menstruation through school-based programs, community workshops, and media campaigns can challenge cultural taboos and empower individuals to advocate for their menstrual health rights.

Policy Reform: Implementing policies to address period poverty, including menstrual product tax exemptions, workplace accommodations, and school hygiene facilities, can promote menstrual equity and social justice at local, national, and global levels.

Education & Menstruation

Access to education should be a fundamental right for all, yet period poverty stands as a significant barrier to achieving this goal. When individuals cannot afford menstrual products, their ability to attend school regularly and fully participate in educational activities is compromised.

Imagine being forced to miss school because you lack access to pads or tampons. For many students experiencing period poverty, this scenario is all too real. The shame and embarrassment of not being able to manage their period can lead to absenteeism, negatively impacting their academic performance and future opportunities.

Furthermore, the long-term consequences of missed education can be profound. Students who miss school due to period poverty may fall behind in their studies, struggle to catch up, or even drop out altogether. This perpetuates a cycle of poverty and inequality, limiting their potential for success later in life.

It's time to recognize period poverty as not just a financial issue, but an educational one as well.

ADVOCACY

https://www.periodlaw.org/

Period Law aims to end the discriminatory tampon tax once and for all Period

https://www.period.org/

Advocating for systemic change through policy & legislation, providing educational resources for menstruators and allies, and distributing menstrual products to those in need.

https://thepadproject.org/

The Pad Project takes a multi-pronged approach to achieving menstrual equity by combining pad machines or washable pad programs with community partnerships and sexual and reproductive health education. Georgia STOMP

https://georgiastomp.org/

Georgia STOMP consists of advocacy, service, and professional organizations joined by the common goal of bringing menstrual equity to government policies and daily life in our state, and by the desire to eliminate period poverty in Georgia.

1.Amenorrhea:Absenceofmenstrualperiods,whichmaybetemporaryorlong-termandcan resultfromvariousfactorssuchaspregnancy,hormonalimbalances,orunderlyingmedical conditions.

2.Cervix:Thelowerpartoftheuterusthatconnectstothevagina,servingasapassagewayfor menstrualbloodtoexitthebodyduringmenstruationandasabarrierprotectingtheuterus frominfection

3.Dysmenorrhea:Painfulmenstrualcrampsexperiencedduringmenstruation,rangingfrom mildtosevere,oftenaccompaniedbyothersymptomssuchasnauseaandfatigue.

4.Endometriosis:Achronicconditioninwhichtissuesimilartotheliningoftheuterusgrows outsidetheuterus,causingpain,inflammation,andpossiblecomplicationssuchasinfertility.

5 FallopianTubes:Tubesextendingfromtheovariestotheuterus,wherefertilization typicallyoccurs,allowingeggsreleasedbytheovariesduringovulationtotraveltotheuterus.

6. FollicularPhase:Thefirstphaseofthemenstrualcycle,beginningonthefirstdayof menstruationandlastinguntilovulation,ischaracterizedbythedevelopmentoffolliclesinthe ovariesinpreparationforovulation.

7.Gynecologist:Amedicaldoctorspecializinginthehealthofthefemalereproductivesystem, includingthediagnosisandtreatmentofconditionsrelatedtomenstruation,pregnancy,and menopause.

8.LutealPhase:Thefinalphaseofthemenstrualcycle,followingovulationandlastinguntil thestartofthenextmenstrualperiod,characterizedbythedevelopmentofthecorpusluteum andpreparationoftheuterineliningforpossiblepregnancy.

9.Menorrhea:Abnormallyheavyorprolongedmenstrualbleeding,oftencausingsignificant disruptiontodailyactivitiesandrequiringmedicalevaluationandtreatment

10.MenstrualActivism:Advocacyeffortsaimedatchallengingmenstrualstigma,promoting menstrualhealthandrights,andaddressingissuessuchasperiodpovertyandaccessto menstrualproducts.

11.MenstrualCup:Areusablemenstrualproductmadeofmedical-gradesiliconeorrubber, insertedintothevaginatocollectmenstrualbloodandemptiedandcleanedperiodically throughoutthemenstrualcycle

12.MenstrualCycle:Therecurringprocessinwhichtheuteruspreparesforpregnancy, typicallylastingaround28days,althoughitcanvaryamongindividuals.Itincludes menstruation,follicularphase,ovulation,andlutealphase.

13.MenstrualDisorders:Medicalconditionsaffectingthemenstrualcycle,suchaspolycystic ovarysyndrome(PCOS)andendometriosis,whichmayrequirediagnosisandtreatmentby healthcareprofessionals

14.MenstrualEquity:Theprincipleofensuringthatallindividualshaveaccesstosafe, affordable,andculturallyappropriatemenstrualproducts,education,andsupport.

15.MenstrualHygiene:Practicesandproductsusedtomaintaincleanlinessandcomfort duringmenstruation,includingproperdisposalofmenstrualwasteandpersonalhygiene.

16 MenstrualPads:Absorbentpadsworninsideunderweartoabsorbmenstrualbloodduring menstruation,availableinvarioussizesandabsorbenciestoaccommodatedifferentflow levels.

17.MenstrualProducts:Itemsusedtomanagemenstrualflow,includingpads,tampons, menstrualcups,andperiodunderwear.

18 MenstrualSuppression:Theintentionalpreventionorreductionofmenstrualbleeding throughhormonalbirthcontrolmethodsormedicalinterventions,oftenusedtomanage medicalconditionsorpersonalpreferences.

19.MenstrualTaboo:Culturalorsocialrestrictionsandstigmassurroundingmenstruation, oftenleadingtoshame,silence,anddiscriminationagainstmenstruatingindividuals.

20.Ovulation:Thereleaseofamatureeggfromtheovary,typicallyoccurringmidwaythrough themenstrualcycle,markingthefertilewindowforconception

21.OvulatoryPhase:Thephaseofthemenstrualcycleduringwhichovulationoccurs, typicallyaroundthemidpointofthecycle,markingthereleaseofamatureeggfromtheovary

22.PeriodPoverty:Theinabilitytoaffordoraccessmenstrualproducts,oftenleadingto adverseeffectsonphysicalhealth,mentalwell-being,andeducationalorworkopportunities.

23 PremenstrualSyndrome(PMS):Physicalandemotionalsymptomsexperiencedbysome individualsinthedaysleadinguptomenstruation,includingmoodswings,bloating,andbreast tenderness.

24.PolycysticOvarySyndrome(PCOS):Ahormonaldisordercommonamongindividualsof reproductiveage,characterizedbyenlargedovariescontainingmultiplesmallcysts,irregular menstrualcycles,andsymptomssuchasexcesshairgrowthandacne.

25 SexuallyTransmittedDisease(STD)/SexuallyTransmittedInfection(STI):Infections transmittedthroughsexualcontact,whichmayaffectthereproductiveorgansandcaninclude conditionssuchaschlamydia,gonorrhea,syphilis,andhumanpapillomavirus(HPV).

26.Tampons:Absorbentplugsmadeofcottonorothermaterials,insertedintothevaginato absorbmenstrualbloodduringmenstruation,availableinvarioussizesandabsorbenciesto accommodatedifferentflowlevels.

27.ToxicShockSyndrome(TSS):Ararebutpotentiallylife-threateningconditioncausedby bacterialtoxins,oftenassociatedwithprolongeduseofcertaintypesofmenstrualproducts, suchastampons,andcharacterizedbysymptomssuchashighfever,rash,andorganfailure

28.Uterus:Themuscularorganinthefemalereproductivesystemwhereafertilizedegg implantsanddevelopsintoafetusduringpregnancy,andwheretheliningshedsduring menstruationifpregnancydoesnotoccur.