As an avid runner, I find inspiration in stories celebrating women of all ages who bravely tackle their first major races. Often, these narratives focus on themes of weight loss, overcoming personal challenges, honoring loved ones battling illness, or advocating for meaningful causes. However, one runner’s experience stood out: 26-year-old Maya Thompson completed the London Marathon while menstruating—literally running without any feminine hygiene products.
I, too, have run marathons while on my period. It requires some thoughtful planning, such as ensuring I have tampons tucked in my sports bra, and knowing where medical tents and restrooms are located. But did I feel like I was overcoming a significant obstacle? Not really. The true hurdle was the months of training that preceded the race, where I often had to remind myself that it was okay to take time for my runs.
Maya’s choice to run without any menstrual protection was a bold statement aimed at combating period-shaming and raising awareness about the stigma surrounding menstruation. She expressed her intention to represent those lacking access to menstrual products and to challenge the notion that women should hide their natural bodily functions.
This brings to mind what my grandmother might have thought about such a decision. Growing up with four sisters and limited access to disposable menstrual products, she would likely wonder why anyone would choose to forgo something so readily available. Isn’t that a mark of progress?
The interpretation of feminism can vary greatly among women. While we strive for equality and recognition, Maya’s stance seems to suggest that menstruation is something we must overcome. Personally, I don’t see it that way. My period is a natural part of my life, and while it may be inconvenient, it certainly doesn’t define me or my capabilities. It’s a reminder of the strength that comes with being a woman.
As a mother to four sons, I’ve chosen to be open about menstruation without making it a taboo topic. If I had a daughter, I would explain the realities of menstruation as an inconvenience that does not hinder her ability to participate in life or athletics.
Maya’s assertion that “on the marathon course, sexism can be beaten” resonates with many female runners. Since Kathrine Switzer’s historic run in the 1967 Boston Marathon, the participation of women in marathons has increased significantly. In fact, women made up 57 percent of marathon finishers in 2013, and studies have shown that female runners can maintain a more consistent pace than their male counterparts.
While I respect Maya’s efforts to raise awareness, as a runner, I simply wish to be recognized for my abilities on the course rather than as a woman facing biological challenges. After all, every runner faces their own hurdles, and no one wants to encounter additional distractions, such as personal bodily fluids, during a race.
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In summary, while Maya Thompson’s decision to run a marathon without menstrual protection was a powerful statement, it’s essential to recognize that menstruation is a natural part of life. Instead of viewing it as an obstacle, we should embrace it as a facet of our identity, allowing us to continue pursuing our passions without shame or stigma.