A celebration will help to break down the taboo of menstruation, opening up the normality that half the world's population experiences. Why should we have to hide and feel shameful about something so natural? In fact, there’s a whole stack of ways different cultures and people around the world deal with their periods.

Our bodies are preparing to bare a child, whether we want to or not, it’s a rite of passage for biological females. Without a menstrual period, there wouldn’t be anyone here to celebrate them. 

Why celebrate?

While it doesn't always seem like it, your period should be a celebration every single month. It’s your body telling you it’s healthy and fertile (and if you’re not actively trying for a baby, can be a huge relief every time it arrives). Although just acknowledging your period and the magnificence of your body can be enough.

You don’t have to scream from the rooftops that you’re bleeding, but you do should tell yourself that your body is incredible, and you are strong enough to deal with this, no matter how big or small it may seem.

Some of the things that come with menstruation suck, like premenstrual syndrome PMS, the cost associated with visits to GPs, obstetricians and gynecologists and buying all the products you need to get through them. The list goes on.

If you’re someone who bleeds from a vagina, then you’re a superhero and you deserve to celebrate every month. Even if that’s just acknowledging what a badass you are and ordering your favourite takeout for dinner while you relax on the couch with a hot water bottle.

To put it simply, why should we ignore our periods and act as if they’re not happening when our bodies are doing an incredible thing? We’re bleeding for days on end and continuing on with our everyday lives. That’s incredible. For parents, particularly male guardians like Dad's, it may not be known that period's aren't celebrated everywhere, and are often shrouded with shame and taboo. This is why it's so important to celebrate.

So we know why it’s crucial to open up the conversation about periods and to celebrate them, but how can we do so? Well, however you want! Throw a party with your besties or simply buy an extra block of chocolate to enjoy, whatever makes YOU feel good. 

Celebrating your period

Firstly, it starts with that very first period. While you don’t have to throw a period party, ensure they start this journey feeling empowered and understanding of how incredible their body is, and what is actually happening when they bleed.

Consider gifting them a period pack, full of things such as pads, tampons, period undies and some treats to help them feel better (because it is an overwhelming time, and some chocolate will help!). Check out The Red Pages for Australian companies that sell these items.

This way they can experiment with different period products and decide what works best for them at this early stage of their period. It also allows them to start this journey knowing they’re supported and that it is nothing to be embarrassed about.

First moon party and period party ideas

Though, you totally COULD throw a period party. Sometimes known as a first moon party or a red tent party, there’s a whole stack of ideas on how to celebrate. Why not period cake? We’ve got the low down on this quirky little celebratory pad-shaped cake. 

As we get older, why not throw a period party? Gather your closest friends, chuck on your favourite TV shows, drink your favourite wine and open up the conversation. You could play never have I ever period addition and laugh over the period troubles you’ve all had. 

You might just realise that you’re not the only person in your friendship group that bled through their pants at a festival, it happens! Got to love irregular periods right?!

• Create a pad cake
• Red drinks - creaming soda, red cordial, or for those a little older, a cranberry cocktail could really hit the spot
• Pinata filled with tampons and lollies
• Serve some fun foods like red velvet cake or cupcakes, fruit kebabs with red fruits (think berries, watermelon) and jam sandwiches