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?
She/Her. I'm April Davis and I am The Vagina Blog! I'm a wife and mother of 3 kids, 2 giant schnauzers, a cat and a flock of chickens. I am passionate about female body health and have dedicated much of my life to protecting and educating people about how to best take care of their bodies.
How did you first learn about periods?
5th grade maturation.
Do you remember your first period conversation? Who was it with and what was that like?
It was after 5th grade maturation. I'm still a little upset it was all just sprung on me like that, beforehand I had NO IDEA (I'm the oldest in my family and my family is very quiet about these types of things). My first conversation was with my Mom and she was very straightforward about the whole thing.
When did you get your first period?
In August when I was 13, just before starting 7th grade.
How was it? What happened?
I feel so lucky because I was just at home on a normal summer morning. I had read the entire library of Judy Blume books by this time so my period was something I was excited about.
Do you try to take extra care of yourself while on your period? If so, how?
Yes! For years I did everything I could to ignore or suppress it and the older I've gotten the more I embrace it. It's now a time of healing and rest for me, however I can make that happen. I happily use it as a reason to rest a little more, indulge a little in chocolate and hot baths and eat red meat because I crave it.
What are your favourite period products?
Discs, cups and period panties!
Is there anything else about your period experiences you want to share?
Periods can be such a beautiful time of rest and reflection (as part of that season of the menstrual cycle) if we allow them to be!
Have the last challenging months affected your period and if so, how did you best navigate?
Yes! Mine were much more painful earlier in the year and as I've adjusted my habits to manage the stress they're beginning to even out again. More sleep, more yoga, more meditation, more veggies!
