Abstract:

The purpose of this study is to explore the attitudes and experiences of women who have a positive relationship with their menstruation. A qualitative design employing a semi-structured interview format was used to interview 12 women who have a positive relationship with their menstruation. Thematic content analysis was utilized in order to codify and analyze the recurring themes and patterns that arose from these interviews. Results indicate that women who have a positive relationship with their menstruation possess an inherent respect for themselves and their womanhood. Participants view their menstruation as a touchstone for their womanhood, on account that menstruation is something that is truly gender specific and cannot be confused by gender roles that change within society. Participants feel empowered by their menstruation as it affirms their womanhood and their power to create life. The data also indicate that a heightened spiritual connection is experienced by participants during their menstruation. Many of the participants utilize this heightened sensitivity in order to do self-reflection work and/or to connect with a power that is greater than themselves. Menstruation is seen by these women as being a special time when they may truly know themselves spiritually and know themselves as women through their heightened sensitivity and through the menstrual symbolism of their own life-creating powers.