We asked you, dear readers to share your funny, embarrassing, humiliating or painful 'period' stories.
Suma Ramachandran, 51, from Mumbai shares a funny experience. You can share yours too!
Illustration: Dominic Xavier/Rediff.com
"This is my period story. I was 12 years old. I had no idea about periods.
"I saw blood stains on my dress and thought I was in the last stage of cancer.
"We used to stay at Byculla and were travelling to my uncle's home in Kalyan.
"We boarded the train, but I refused to sit as I was afraid that I'd stain my new dress.
"Then, I thought I should announce to the world that I am dying of cancer and gain some sympathy.
"So in a loud shrill voice I announced that I was in the final stage of cancer and would die soon since I was bleeding.
"My mom and aunt rolled their eyes and asked me to shut up.
"But I wouldn't and went on and on, much to the amusement of the other travellers.
"Finally, exhausted I stopped my speech. I got a earful when I reached my uncle's house.
"I was given pads, but no one told me that this was going to be a monthly phenomena.
"Next month, again when I got my periods, I was told that it would recur every month.
"Now, as a mother to a 17-year-old, my daughter is aware about periods as she had lectures in school when she was 13.
"She knows all about it and happily looks forward to it.
"I believe that the more people speak about it, the shame and stigma associated with periods will be wiped away.
"All the silly taboos and restrictions imposed on 'impure women' need to go away too."
We ask you, dear women to share your 'period' stories with us.
There's no need to whisper it anymore. Go on! Share all those funny, annoying, embarrassing, humiliating experiences.
Send it to us at getahead@rediff.co.in with 'Let's talk about periods' in the subject line, along with your NAME, AGE and the place where you LIVE.
You are most welcome to send in your picture as well. We will publish the best entries right here on Rediff.com.
