Exploring the Metaphorical Language of Menstruation. Health, Hygiene or Camouflage?

  1. Eva María Llorens Simón 1
  1. 1 Universitat d'Alacant
    info

    Universitat d'Alacant

    Alicante, España

    ROR https://ror.org/05t8bcz72

Journal:
Cultura, lenguaje y representación = Culture, language and representation: revista de estudios culturales de la Universitat Jaume I = cultural studies journal of Universitat Jaume I

ISSN: 1697-7750

Year of publication: 2024

Issue Title: Mujeres y metáforas. Terminología, léxico y representaciones sobre la salud de las mujeres en el discurso biomédico

Issue: 34

Pages: 83-106

Type: Article

DOI: 10.6035/CLR.7878 DIALNET GOOGLE SCHOLAR lock_openOpen access editor

More publications in: Cultura, lenguaje y representación = Culture, language and representation: revista de estudios culturales de la Universitat Jaume I = cultural studies journal of Universitat Jaume I

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Abstract

This article is centred on a corpus-based methodology and approach to delve into the metaphoric language surrounding menstruation. Its primary goal is to illuminate prevalent figurative expressions and their implications on societal perceptions concerning women’s health and menstruation. Observing a relevant and representative corpus on the topic, our findings underscore a notable thematic concentration on health and hygiene-related metaphors. However, most of them, despite their science-centric nature, carry a significantly negative undertone, perpetuating stereotypes that cast menstruation as an unfavourable and stigmatised experience. This study positions menstruation within a broader social context, revealing a pervasive inclination to camouflage this natural phenomenon. Despite being a fundamental aspect of women’s lives, metaphors often portray menstruation as an adverse event, a dark circumstance, or a longstanding taboo, transcending cultural and historical boundaries. By shedding light on these linguistic nuances, this research contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the language used to discuss menstruation. Through this exploration and evaluation, we advocate for a shift towards inclusive and empathetic discourse surrounding women’s health discourse.

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