100 words for Period
And why we should just call them periods
Periods are a natural and essential part of life for menstruators, yet they are often shrouded in secrecy and euphemisms. Using slang for menstruation is often a way to navigate social discomfort, but it can have unintended consequences. Here’s why we should reconsider relying on these euphemisms:
Period
Menstrual cycle
Time of the month
Aunt Flo
Monthly visitor
On the rag
Red tide
Shark week
Moon time
Crimson wave
Lady days
Code red
Bloody Mary
That time of the month
Menses
The curse
Riding the cotton pony
Having the painters in
Girl flu
Leak week
Surfing the crimson wave
Red wedding
Strawberry week
FlowThe blob
The red badge of courage
Crimson tide
Scarlet fever
Tomato soup
Mother Nature’s gift
Cycle
Lady business
Uterus unplugged
Monthly curse
Monthlies
Auntie’s visit
Code red alert
Red letter day
The visitor
Monthly trouble
Blood moon
Dracula’s tea party
Riding the cotton pony express
The red dragon
Little friend
Bloody good time
Red river
Niagara Falls
The red parade
Monthly miracle
Bloody nuisance
The tide is in
Red alert
Women’s troubles
Monthly cycle
In the red
Cherry time
Monthly moon
The blood dance
The crimson ride
Periodic table
Ruby red
Venus week
Lady time
The scarlet flood
The red sea
Catching up with Aunt Flo
Bloody days
The big red
Lady cycle
The scarlet letter
The blood week
The red time
Time for tampons
The red queen
The red zone
Lady flow
The scarlet period
The monthly bloom
The big monthly
The period parade
Scarlet week
Flow time
The red tide
The crimson visitor
The time of blood
Red dot special
Monthly moon cycle
Bloody tides
Red badge
The cycle
Monthly event
The blood phase
The red event
The monthly show
The crimson time
Monthly visitor from Mars
The flow of life
Lady crimson
Red reign
Using slang for menstruation is often a way to navigate social discomfort, but it can have unintended consequences. While calling it “Shark Week” might get a giggle, it can also contribute to the stigma around periods. By avoiding the proper terminology, we reinforce the idea that menstruation is something to be hidden or ashamed of.
Euphemisms can lead to confusion and misinformation, particularly for young people who are just learning about their bodies. Clear and accurate language helps ensure that everyone understands what is happening and can seek help if needed.
Using the correct terms—such as period, menstruation, or menstrual cycle—helps to normalise this natural biological process. This can foster a more open and supportive environment where people feel comfortable discussing their health.
Accurate and respectful language empowers menstruators. It affirms that their experiences are valid and important, and it encourages them to advocate for their needs.
Proper terminology is inclusive. It respects and acknowledges the experiences of all menstruators, regardless of age, gender, or background.
Next time you’re tempted to refer to your period as “Aunt Flo,” consider embracing the proper terminology. Let’s work towards creating a world where periods are seen as a normal part of life, and where everyone feels comfortable talking about them openly and honestly.