The Reality of Dealing with Period Pain in Public

We have all heard the phrase “just push through it.” But when you are dealing with period pain in public, especially with a condition like endometriosis, pushing through is not always an option. The pain can be excruciating, unpredictable, and impossible to ignore.

And yet, many of us stay silent.

I remember being in college, sitting in class as pain wrapped around my body like barbed wire. It was not just cramps—it was the kind of pain that makes you see stars, where your body goes numb, your breath gets shallow, and you hope no one notices you literally shaking in your seat.

That day, my professor called me out for “not paying attention.” I was not “not paying attention.” I was just in pain. I could not say why—not out loud. Periods are still seen as “private,” and admitting that yours is unbearable somehow makes you dramatic or weak.

So I just sat there. Silent. Annoyed. Hurting.

Why Pushing Through the Pain Isn’t Always an Option

There is this quiet expectation that we should function at 100%, no matter what our bodies are going through. However, when you are dealing with period pain in public, that expectation becomes exhausting.

People with endometriosis do not always have the luxury of a “normal” period—or even a pain-free day.

And still, we show up. We go to work. We sit through meetings. We smile when we would rather cry.

The Stuggles of Living with an Invisible Illness

Moreover, what makes it harder is the invisibility of endometriosis. You cannot always see it. There is no cast, no bandage, no outward sign. That invisibility makes it easier for people to question your pain, to assume you are exaggerating, lazy, or unmotivated.

In addition, add in layers like race, gender bias, or the stigma around talking about periods in public, and it becomes even harder to speak up. It is no wonder so many of endo warriors remain silent.

How to Make Public Spaces More Endometriosis-Friendly

Next, we deserve more. We deserve workplaces that believe us. Schools that accommodate us.
Communities that do not make us feel like we are “too much” for needing to rest, to pause, or to leave.

Here is what needs to change:

✅ More workplace flexibility – Paid menstrual leave and remote work options could make a huge difference.
✅ Better school accommodations – Students should be allowed to take breaks, extend deadlines, or even take exams later if needed.
✅ Less stigma around periods – We need open conversations, not shame, when discussing menstrual health.

The more awareness we bring to dealing with period pain in public, the closer we get to real change.

To Anyone Struggling Right Now

Furthermore, if you are reading this and you are scared to speak up—I see you.

The fear is valid; it is real, and so is your pain.

As a result, take whatever measures you need to manage it, whenever and however you need to.
You do not have to be silent.
You do not have to be perfect.
And you definitely do not have to be strong all the time.

Let’s Talk

Finally, have you ever felt dismissed or misunderstood in public because of your pain?

Drop a comment below, DM us, or share this post to help raise awareness. The more we speak, the less invisible we become.