Why We Should Teach Boys About Periods and Menstruation

Periods and menstruation are a natural part of women's health and a significant phase in the life of every growing girl. However, the reality is that many boys are either not exposed to or misinformed about this topic, which can lead to awkward and potentially harmful situations. In this article, we will explore the importance of including period education in the sex education curriculum for boys and why it is necessary.

The Importance of Including Menstruation Education in Sex Education

Sex education is a crucial part of the curriculum for both boys and girls. It aims to provide them with accurate information about their bodies, reproductive systems, and relationships. However, when periods and menstruation are not included in the curriculum for boys, it poses several issues. Boys can often feel awkward or inappropriately educated about the topic, leading to a lack of understanding and potential misinformation. This can be particularly challenging when boys are dealing with their own emerging sexual health and are trying to navigate relationships and dating.

The Challenges of Avoiding the Topic

Some individuals may argue that men and boys feel discomfort or disgust with the topic of menstruation, hence prefer to avoid it. While it's true that some may feel uncomfortable due to the physical and emotional aspects, this discomfort should not serve as a reason to exclude education. In fact, addressing the topic openly can help reduce anxiety and misconception, fostering a more inclusive and accurate understanding of human biology.

Curriculum Fit for Purpose

Any comprehensive sex education curriculum should include information about menstruation for both genders. In some parts of the world, this information is still often omitted from the boys' curriculum, which is truly concerning. It's important to recognize that women are not the only ones experiencing and navigating the changes that come with puberty. Men and boys also have questions and concerns about their changing bodies and relationships.

Personal Experiences and Realities

Many individuals have personal experiences that highlight the importance of menstrual education for boys. For example, growing up with a mother who is a Registered Nurse, I had access to comprehensive resources on human sexuality. This early exposure and education have shaped my understanding and helped demystify some of the myths surrounding menstruation. It's fortunate when parents or educators take the time to provide such knowledge, as it can make a significant difference in how boys and men navigate their own bodies and relationships.

Current Practices in Sex Education

Fortunately, many schools are beginning to integrate period education into the broader sex education curriculum. In most cases, boys and girls are taught together, and sex education is often introduced in primary school, starting around 9–15 years old. At this age, the focus is on basic information about puberty and the changes that occur in both male and female bodies. As they progress, the curriculum becomes more detailed, covering topics such as contraception, consent, and sexual health.

The education about periods is part of this broader curriculum. At around age 11, boys are introduced to the basics of what happens during puberty, including menstruation. As they grow older, the information becomes more detailed, with discussions on contraception, consent, and sexual health. This includes topics such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and even more mature subjects, such as pornography and specialized forms of sexual activity.

By providing boys with this education, we help them understand the physical and emotional aspects of growing up. It also helps to normalize the topic and reduce the stigma associated with menstruation. By addressing these issues head-on, we can foster a more knowledgeable and supportive environment for all individuals.

Conclusion

The education of both boys and girls about menstruation is essential for creating a more inclusive, understanding, and informed society. It's not a choice between discomfort and education; it's about ensuring that all members of society have the necessary knowledge to navigate their lives with confidence and respect. As we continue to evolve our sex education curricula, let's ensure that every individual receives the education they need to thrive.