Chinmayi Instagram – If you are a woman who had pain-free, non debilitating periods, good on you. But many of us have had it, being unable to function, many suggested painkillers which women swallowed just to show up. Most wouldn’t go to Gynaecs because that is another shaming experience for many – ‘You cant tolerate this pain then how will you tolerate childbirth?’ As if tolerating pain is something we need to do as a gender – so much so that women have to have a list of non-judgmental gynaecs that they put out every once in a while. Women who dont have endometriosis or dysmenorrhea aren’t going to be taking holidays. It is not a setback to womenkind. Women who need it can take it and not be penalised for it. It is not as if Indian companies offer such an amazing work-life balance when the Narayanamurthys of the world suggest insane hours of work weeks. Yes – having debilitating pain during periods is not healthy. It is a sign of an imbalance but in most cases, as is the issue with many illnesses and misdiagnosis with women’s health, the root cause is not found. It takes years for it to settle. My own early 20s – first day of my period I’d be knocked out, with cramps and I d be unable to sing. Thankfully my job meant I could ask for a postponement by a day or 2. It didnt set my career back. Heart attacks were under diagnosed or misdiagnosed in women because our symptoms are different to that of men. The least women can do is not shit on others especially with regard to periods. Women’s health matters. Post Partum care matters. And rest matters.