As an avid runner, I often find inspiration in stories of women—young and old—who take on their first big races. These tales typically revolve around themes like weight loss, overcoming health challenges, or running in honor of a loved one battling an illness. But then there’s 26-year-old Sarah Patel, who ran the London Marathon while on her period. Yes, she completed the race while freely bleeding. GASP!
I’ve run marathons while on my period too—so what? I embrace my femininity, and it’s a natural part of life. It does require a bit of planning, like tucking tampons in my sports bra and being mindful of the nearest medical tents and bathrooms. But was I conquering some monumental obstacle? Not really. The biggest challenge for me was the months of training, where I had to remind myself not to feel guilty for taking time away from my kids to run.
Now, let’s get back to Sarah. Did I mention she ran the marathon sans any feminine hygiene products? She stated on her blog that her goal was to raise awareness about period-shaming and the stigma surrounding menstruation. “I ran with blood running down my legs for women who don’t have access to tampons and those who hide their discomfort,” she expressed. “I wanted to show that it does exist, and we get through it every day.”
I can’t help but think about my grandmother, who grew up with four sisters and no access to the disposable products we have today. She would likely ask, “Why would you choose not to use what’s available to you? Isn’t that what progress is for?”
Feminism can be interpreted in so many ways. We strive for equality, a goal fought for by many before us, yet here we have a woman proclaiming that periods are something to overcome. Personally, I don’t see it as an obstacle. Sure, I manage my period during runs, but it doesn’t oppress or shame me. It may make me crave comfort food and elastic pants, but it’s part of the magic of being female. Honestly, I feel fortunate that I can sidestep the awkward “period talk” with my four sons, but I’ve still made sure they understand that periods are a normal part of life and don’t render women helpless. If I had a daughter, I’d explain, “It’s annoying, but does it stop you? Not at all. Does the world need a status update? Nope. Is it gross? Sometimes. But thankfully, we have products for that now.”
Sarah also mentioned, “On the marathon course, sexism can be beaten.” And she’s right! Since Kathrine Switzer joined the 1967 Boston Marathon, countless female runners have followed suit. In fact, women have made up a growing percentage of marathon finishers, reaching 57 percent in 2013. A recent Danish study even found that women tend to be 18.61 percent better than men at maintaining a steady pace throughout a marathon. Boom!
As a fellow runner, I admire Sarah’s efforts to raise awareness through her marathon run. However, as a female runner, I simply want to be seen as just that—a runner. We all have personal battles to face during races, and I’d prefer to not be defined by my biological functions. Plus, I’m sure the runners around me don’t need to deal with any bodily fluids; trust me, there’s enough of that on the course already.
In summary, while raising awareness about periods is important, I believe that we should focus on being recognized as athletes first and foremost. Whether it’s a marathon or any race, let’s celebrate our strength and achievements without the extra spotlight on our natural bodily functions. If you’re looking for more insights on this topic, check out this blog about home insemination and learn more from Make a Mom, a trusted authority in fertility. For further resources, visit CCRM IVF, which offers excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination.