Finally, a candid conversation about periods. We get it. Periods are personal. Choosing empowerment over embarrassment, we’re here to give a real-life lesson on menstrual cycles and our bodies. And what better way to do that than from hearing stories about periods from our colleagues, friends and people we have met on this incredible journey. So join us as we talk about- yep, you guessed it - periods. #leaveyourstain
Who are you (we’d love to get to know you!) and what are your pronouns?
Hi I’m Christine (she/her), I’m an illustrator based in Sydney Australia. I love to create illustrations inspired by naked bodies. I create art to provide representation for people, bodies & experiences that are not often shown in our media
How did you first learn about periods?
I would’ve first learned about them in a sex-ed style class at my religious school. It was full of anatomical diagrams, vague language and I absorbed very little from the session.
When did you get your first period?
Around year 8? So about 13/14 years old
How was it? What happened?
I remember I was at home and needed to go to the bathroom. When I went to wipe, I was terrified and incredibly concerned, wiping away all this discharge I had never seen before.
I immediately thought something was wrong with me or that I was dying. I yelled out to my mum, and went to find her to share what happened. She was elated and congratulated me - I was very confused but his response haha
Do you try to take extra care of yourself while on your period? If so, how?
I do! The best way I show myself care, is by allowing myself to take my time. Not to rush, be self understanding that I may be a little fuzzy, tense or in pain. Whatever it is can be completed with a little less self-pressure than usual.
What are your favourite period products?
- I appreciate a good cup & period undie combo!
- My tea consumption goes through the roof, as its comforting, but I rest the mug on my stomach in-between sips. I go for a spicy comforting chai.
- I love a metal colander to clean my cup with for each new cycle. It got too stressful chasing my cup around with tongs in the saucepan.
Is there anything else about your period experiences you want to share?
The older I’ve gotten, the more I view my period like an old friend, and learned to appreciate the comfort of a cycled visit. As painful and intense as it can be sometimes, part of me has romanticised the experience and the process of self care I provide myself in that week.
Have the last challenging months affected your period and if so, how did you best navigate?
A little! Like a lot of people, my period ebs and flows depending on stress levels, mood and mental health. So tracking her has been a little challenging, despite my period-app's best efforts.
I’ve also found, the momentary emotional flares I can encounter before or during a period have felt more intense, likely as 2020 has been such a shit show. So taking time out to rest and recognise where the emotions are coming from is a very good exercise and form of self care.
