Why Inclusive Language in Menstrual Health Matters

Inclusive language is about more than just choosing the right words, it’s about acknowledging and respecting the diverse experiences and identities of everyone who menstruates. Whether it’s engaging with our community, creating content, or the words we use on our packaging and advertisements, using inclusive language ensures that we welcome everyone – regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, age, or any other characteristic. 

At Yoni, we’re committed to making sure that the language we use reflects our values. This way, we hope to inspire change, empowerment and create safety within our community. Here are four ways we use inclusive language to talk about menstrual health. More importantly, here are four ways you can apply inclusivity to your everyday life…because there’s room for everyone at the table; 

1. Gender-Neutral Language: Choosing gender-neutral language makes sure that all individuals feel included. Instead of referring to “women” when discussing our menstrual products, we use terms like “people with periods.” This change from gendered language recognizes that not all individuals who menstruate identify as women, and it embraces the diversity of the people who use our products. 
2. Smashing Taboos: There are loads of ways you can contribute to breaking barriers when it comes to periods! It can be as simple as having conversations with your friends and family. It can be demanding accessible period products at school or work. It can be joining activist’s groups that fight against period poverty. By acting without shame, you can create the change we all wish to see in the world. That’s why we post about all aspects of the periods…no shame here! 
3. Avoiding Assumptions: You know what they say, “Never assume! It makes an ass of u and me!” By checking in with the language you’re using, you can ensure that you are being inclusive. At Yoni, we avoid making assumptions and leave room for others. We like to ask questions and learn from other’s experiences. 
4. Empowering Narratives: Creating community means choosing stories that broaden our horizons. Using empowering language that encourages individuals to embrace their bodies, choices, and identities makes room for understanding and acceptance. Our messaging is centered around body positivity, self-love, and the celebration of individuality. 

The Impact of Inclusive Language on Our Community

We want the impact of inclusive language to extend way beyond words. We want it to shape the way our community interacts with our brand and each other. By embracing an inclusive mindset, we foster a space where diverse voices can be heard and respected, and where individuals feel empowered to advocate for themselves and others. It is super important for us to create and protect this safe space. We want to see and hear from the people we are trying to represent! 

There is no better way to learn about inclusivity than passing the mic to diverse voices. We share our platform with Game Changers like Nanoah Struik (they/them) & Sam Rink (he/him), who speak about their personal experiences with menstruation. They share with us how gendered language around periods affects them. Nanoah spoke about how gender specific phrases made them feel as a non-binary person. They said “Every month when my period came back, I was reminded of the phrase, “now you’re a woman,” and that felt overwhelming. It made me feel like being a woman meant menstruation and menstruation meant being a woman”. 

As a trans man, Sam explained perfectly how the gendered language within menstrual health affected him; “It’s tiring! Imagine trying to spend years to build as much comfort in your body and surroundings that would affirm your gender identity and expression and then being suddenly reminded that “your period makes you a woman”.

So now you know, inclusive language is an important tool to create a more inclusive conversation about periods. We believe in better care for people and periods. As we continue to promote all things menstrual health, we will remain dedicated to using language that breaks down barriers, challenges stereotypes, and fosters inclusivity. 

Be kind to all vaginas!