Queering Periods: Discussing Trans and Non-Binary People Who Menstruate

Dr Khusi Pattanayak

With menstruation now being brought under the aegis of human rights and arguments being presented on how menstruation is a biological function and not just a women-exclusive affair, it is time to reorient our perspective and take a step towards incorporating more heterogenous attitude while discussing periods.

While majority of the conversation related to periods revolves around stigma, access to proper hygiene, patriarchal discriminatory practices, social taboos, and lack of basic services associated with ‘those days’ that women experience, it miserably fails to take into account those menstruating existence who are not women. Yes, transgender, intersex, non-binary, agender et al individuals too menstruate like women.

The absence of a gender diverse dialogue in the mainstream discussion is partly due to the monolithic structure of the periods awareness programs. For example, how often do we talk about menstrual health of professional female models who walk on ramp? Do we have enough research on impact of menstruation and life of female sportsperson? How clear are we on the long-term effects of (ir)regular menstrual cycle as far as female astronauts are concerned?

The response will not be satisfactory. The naysayers will argue, who asked women to get into such profession if they are potentially hazardous to health? But such obsolete remarks do not hold much meaning in 2023; because it has been proven (in every possible way) that periods are not parameters of social or professional competency. This uniform approach is also the reason why trans and other gender non-confirming representation is so low while highlighting the significance of menstruation.

The inclusivity effort is still very elitist and limited. It needs more social acceptance; but prior to that awareness that anyone can have periods.

Many a times language and visual reference plays a great role in bringing equality and embracing new social norms. That is why activists are proposing to stop using euphemisms like ‘feminine hygiene products’; instead adopt a gender-neutral term like ‘periods product’ or ‘menstrual hygiene product’. This will make acceptance easier if not faster.

It has been reported by many transmen (in a circumstance where money is not an issue) that they are uncomfortable buying period products because they are invariably found in women’s section and have overuse of colour pink to appeal the female consumers. Whereas on the other end of the spectrum, under certain programs, girls/ ladies gain access to periods products free of cost. But this provision does not extend to those who are part of gender diverse community.

There are other concerns as well. Ill-equipped men’s room or restroom exclusively for men make it difficult for individuals to change or put on menstrual products as there are no proper disposal system or emergency access to the health products. The situation becomes worse when one considers the history of rainbow community which has always struggled to obtain proper employment and housing accommodation; making them further vulnerable to menstrual stigma and other health concerns (both physical and mental).

That said, over the last few years, a small but significant number of people have been trying to raise awareness about discrimination revolving around menstruating non-women population. This has resulted in a positive shift in the way menstruation is perceived. Proposals have been made (and introduced in some areas on experimental basis) to make menstrual products available in common areas and not just in women-specific corners for anyone to have access to it, without judgement. Afterall, sanitary pads, periods panties, tampons, menstrual cups etc are all health products and hence they should be beyond orthodox gender segregation.

With menstruation now being brought under the aegis of human rights and arguments being presented on how menstruation is a biological function and not just a women-exclusive affair, it is time to reorient our perspective and take a step towards incorporating more heterogenous attitude while discussing period.