From menarche (first period) to menopause, menstruation is subject to myths, misunderstandings, and mocking.
There are numerous ways to manage periods, including pads, tampons, menstrual cups, discs, period underwear, and free bleeding. Just like every period is different, the way we manage it is also different. There’s no perfect way, and it all depends on our preferences, lifestyle, comfort, budget, and even our politics. However, one method has started trending among Gen Z and Gen Alpha.
Free Bleeding: A Growing Trend
Free bleeding is gaining traction as a preferred method for people between 12 and 27 as they react to sensationalised reports of toxic metals in periods products, and concerns about the environmental impact of these products.
In 2015, Kiran Ghandi made headlines when she free bled during a London marathon. She ran for just over 40 kilometres to draw attention to the stigma against periods and refused to be shamed by the backlash that followed.
“Women are socialised not to complain or talk about their own bodily functions, since no one can see it happening – and if you can’t see it, it’s probably ‘not a big deal’ -Kiran Ghandi
What is Free Bleeding?
In a nutshell, free bleeding is menstruating without using any period-related products. Instead, people allow their menstrual flow to exit their bodies naturally, often choosing to wear dark clothing or using extra layers of fabric to manage the flow. The practice is rooted in the belief that menstruation is a natural process that doesn’t require containment, and it’s often embraced for its environmental benefits, as it reduces waste from disposable products. Additionally, some see it as a way to challenge societal taboos around menstruation and promote body positivity.
I saw an article a few years ago about a woman who knew her body so well she would walk into a nearby forest and kneel so she could free-bleed into the earth.
Free bleeding is often done to feel more natural, save money, or reduce waste from disposable products. It’s also about breaking the stigma around periods..
Things To Consider
COMFORT: Free bleeding means letting your period flow naturally, so you need to be okay with the possibility of leaks, especially in public. Wearing dark clothing or adding extra layers can help, but being mentally prepared is key to avoiding stress or embarrassment.
FLOW: If you have a heavy period, free bleeding can be more challenging. Knowing your flow pattern can help you plan for days when you might need extra protection or decide if free bleeding is right for your whole cycle.
ENVIRONMENT: One of the biggest benefits of free bleeding is that it’s environmentally friendly. By not using disposable products, you’re reducing waste and your environmental footprint. This can be an important factor if you’re eco-conscious and looking for ways to live more sustainably.
SOCIAL SITUATIONS: Consider where you’ll be and how comfortable you are free bleeding in different settings, like at work, school, or social events. You might feel more at ease doing it at home or on light-flow days when there’s less risk of noticeable leaks.
HYGIENE: Keeping clean is crucial when free bleeding to avoid any discomfort or irritation. Regularly changing clothes or washing up can help you stay fresh and prevent potential issues like rashes or infections.
Is Free Bleeding Here to Stay?
While free bleeding is gaining popularity among some groups, it’s not without its critics. Some argue it’s impractical for many people, particularly those with heavy flows or in professional settings. Others view it as a radical statement against traditional menstruation practices and a step toward greater acceptance of menstruation as a natural bodily function.
As with any trend, it’s important to approach free bleeding with an open mind and consider your own needs and circumstances. Whether you embrace this practice or not, understanding the reasons behind it can contribute to a broader conversation about menstrual health and personal choices.
Unfortunately, menstruation will always be a hot topic when there’s a lack of education, and governments label them ‘lifestyle products’ and apply ‘pink taxes’ to them.
The fact is, almost half the population menstruates and it’s high time we break the stigma.
More and more people are starting to question the usual ways of handling periods. For some, it’s a way to show they’re all about body positivity and caring for the environment. For others, it’s still a bit out there and not something they’d choose.
In the end, whether you go for free bleeding or stick with other period products, it’s important to do what feels right for you based on your comfort, lifestyle, and values. As our views on menstruation change, it’s good to have open talks and respect everyone’s choices.
