Menstruation Shame

Menstruation shame is the embarrassment or guilt someone feels about having their period, often due to cultural or religious taboos that label menstruation as dirty or spiritually impure.

• You hide pads or tampons so no one sees them.

• You skip religious services because you're on your period, fearing judgment or violating purity rules.

• You feel dirty or spiritually unclean during menstruation because of religious teachings.

Potential Clinical Implications (especially in high-control religious settings)

• Shame rooted in beliefs about impurity may prevent you from seeking medical help for menstrual issues like heavy bleeding or severe pain.

• Constant guilt or secrecy around your period can heighten anxiety, depression, and feelings of unworthiness before your faith community or deity.

• Obsessive focus on religious purity can lead to disordered eating, self-harm, or compulsive cleansing rituals as you try to restore spiritual "cleanliness."