The Arsenal FC women's football team aims to break taboos around menstruation in sport. In a world where athletes, and especially footballers, are praised for continuing to play despite injuries – a period stain still causes embarrassment and shame.
Arsenal Women's new campaign aims to change this perception and encourage discussion about an issue that affects half the world's population. Leah Williamson, the team's captain, sent a clear message, saying:
"It's just blood and blood is part of the game. But shame? Shame has no place in sports."
The goal of the campaign is to raise awareness and increase support for female athletes, so that they feel comfortable competing during their menstrual period, as for years it was treated as a taboo, with many athletes resorting to solutions that often affect their performance in sports or avoiding speaking openly about the issue.
"No bloodstain should be a source of shame or a reason to be afraid to play. Blood is blood, whether from the nose, knees or uterus. We must all break this taboo," the caption of the post made by the team reads.
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With the support and initiatives of major teams like Arsenal Women, sport is taking an important step towards a more equal future. Through this initiative, the world of football is sending a message: Menstruation is not a weakness and should never be a cause for shame. Female athletes have the right to focus on the game, free from fear, prejudice and unnecessary worries.
