Participating in the Trials & Tribulations challenge while menstruating presents unique challenges, but with proper preparation and mindset, it can become an empowering experience that extends beyond personal achievement. This guide combines practical advice with meaningful reflections on the broader context of menstrual health challenges faced by women globally.
Should you participate?
Before committing to the event, consider these key factors:
Your physical condition
Listen to your body. If you’re experiencing severe cramps, heavy bleeding, or other debilitating symptoms, it’s perfectly acceptable to prioritise your health and postpone participation. Trials & Tribulations should challenge you without compromising your well-being.
Your comfort level
Many athletes successfully compete during their periods. If you feel mentally and physically prepared, your period shouldn’t hold you back. Physical activity can even help alleviate mild menstrual symptoms through the release of endorphins.
Fiqh considerations
Understanding the Islamic perspective on menstruation (hayd) is crucial. Here are key considerations:
Religious obligations
- During menstruation, women are exempt from the five daily prayers, so they may miss out on communal aspects of the challenge.
- Normally, participants are encouraged to fast while taking on the challenge, but menstruating women do not fast.
- You can still make dhikr and duas throughout the event.
Physical activity and exercise
- Islamic scholars generally agree that exercise and physical activity are permissible during menstruation.
- There is no restriction in fiqh against participating in sports while menstruating, provided proper covering is maintained.
- The Prophet’s wives and female companions continued their daily activities during menstruation.
- Focus on maintaining your dignity and modesty throughout the event.
Essential preparation
Choosing the right menstrual products
Different products offer varying advantages for challenge conditions:
Menstrual cups: These provide optimal protection for water obstacles, creating a reliable seal that remains effective when submerged. They require less frequent changing and are environmentally friendly. Ensure you’re comfortable with insertion and removal before the event.
Tampons: While effective for most activities, tampons may absorb water during extended submersion, potentially reducing their effectiveness. If choosing this option, opt for high-absorbency varieties and consider changing before water obstacles.
Period underwear: Consider wearing these as a backup layer. Choose high-quality options designed specifically for athletic activities.
Creating your period kit
Pack a waterproof bag containing:
- Spare menstrual products
- Biodegradable wet wipes
- Sealable disposal bags
- Pain relief medication
- Hand sanitiser
- Clean underwear
Store this kit in your rucksack or arrange for a friend or event volunteer to hold it at a designated checkpoint.
Managing water obstacles
Water features present unique challenges, requiring specific strategies:
Before the obstacle
- Change products if needed before reaching water sections
- Secure loose clothing
- Double-check that your period kit is safely stored
During the obstacle
- Move confidently through the water
- Focus on proper form to minimise discomfort
- Remember that brief water exposure won’t significantly affect properly inserted menstrual products
After the obstacle
- Use biodegradable wipes to clean hands if needed
- Check for product security when practical
- Change products if you experience discomfort
Broader perspective: understanding privilege and purpose
Participating in the challenge while menstruating offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the privileges we often take for granted. Consider the experiences of refugee women and girls who face similar physical challenges without access to basic amenities:
Daily challenges in refugee camps
- Limited access to clean water and private sanitation facilities
- Scarce availability of menstrual products
- Lack of privacy for changing and cleaning
- Psychological impact of managing menstruation without adequate resources
Converting challenge into action
Channel your challenge experience into meaningful support:
- Research and support organisations providing menstrual health resources to refugee camps
- Raise awareness about global menstrual health disparities
- Consider fundraising during your event to support related causes
- Share your experience to help destigmatise menstruation in sports
Post-event care
Proper recovery is crucial:
- Change into clean, dry clothing immediately after finishing
- Replace menstrual products and thoroughly clean up
- Monitor your body for any unusual symptoms
- Rest adequately and stay hydrated
- Celebrate your achievement while reflecting on its broader significance
Conclusion
Completing the Trials & Tribulations challenge during your period represents more than personal achievement. It’s an opportunity to challenge societal limitations while gaining perspective on global menstrual health challenges. Your temporary discomfort can fuel empathy and action for those facing these challenges daily without choice or adequate resources.
Remember that every woman’s experience is unique. Listen to your body, prepare thoroughly, and use this challenge as a platform for both personal growth and social awareness. Whether you finish first or last, participating while managing your period demonstrates resilience and contributes to breaking down barriers for women.