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Periods are something nearly half the population experiences, yet many conversations about them still happen in hushed tones
To help change that, SAYS recently hosted its Just Flow With It Afternoon Tea, bringing together healthcare professionals, media representatives, and members of the community for an open discussion about periods and women's health.
Held at Feast on FIFTY1, Imperial Lexis Kuala Lumpur, the event was part of SAYS' ongoing Just Flow With It initiative, which aims to make conversations about women's health more accessible through content, community engagement, and real-life experiences.
One of the highlights of the afternoon was a sharing session by Dr Chan Jin-Mae
As the resident doctor and state manager of Selangor Darul Ehsan and Wilayah Persekutuan Family Reproductive Health Association (SWP FReHA), she shared insights from her experience in reproductive healthcare and community education.
Drawing from her experience in reproductive healthcare and community education, Dr Chan spoke about how stigma surrounding menstruation continues to affect the way people understand and talk about periods today.
"For as long as we can remember, the period has always been shrouded in whispers and mystery," she said.
"There are a lot of restrictions surrounding the period that don't have any medical basis," Dr Chan added, sharing examples such as avoiding meat, consuming only plain rice, limiting social interactions, and eating from separate utensils.
Dr Chan also highlighted how language can contribute to stigma
"The vagina is commonly referred to using euphemisms such as 'bunga' (flower) or 'kemaluan' (which literally translates to shame). It is crucial that the right language is used to normalise the use of correct anatomical terms to encourage open conversations relating to menstruation and sexuality," she said.
Chan emphasised that menstruation should be recognised as a normal biological process rather than something to hide or fear.
When it comes to the realities of period poverty in Malaysia, Chan said: "Period poverty is when a girl or woman does not have access to having dignified menstruation (ie having access to menstrual products and the knowledge to use it), and as a result suffers the consequences of it."
She added that dignified menstruation is a human right.
Following the talk, guests participated in a question-and-answer session
The discussion covered topics ranging from menstrual health and reproductive wellbeing to health education and stigma reduction.
At the heart of the Just Flow With It initiative is a dedicated content hub designed to make women's health information more accessible through articles, videos, interactive content, and personal stories. The platform also features an anonymous submission tool that allows individuals to share their own experiences related to periods and women's health, helping to amplify real voices and perspectives from across Malaysia.
Beyond digital content, the initiative will continue through community-focused activations, including a free public fitness and wellness class, with additional events planned in the coming months.
