Many men seek out FSW services precisely because their wives or girlfriends are in their periods.Most men who engaged female sex worker said they felt deceived if they discovered she was menstruating.
This is according to a study that sought to identify knowledge and attitudes towards menstruation among male clients of female sex workers.
“Once they see blood, the mood for sex is spoiled,” one woman said. Some men demanded refunds or left to find another FSW. Many female sex workers (FSWs) are now resorting to concealing their menstruation, often using unsafe methods like tissue or cotton wool to absorb blood.
Despite these efforts, most male clients view sex during menstruation as unpleasurable, forbidden, or risky—a perception rooted in misconceptions and cultural stigma. Ironically, many men seek out FSW services precisely because their wives or girlfriends are menstruating, according to the study published in PLOS ONE.
The research, conducted in Kisumu, delves into how cultural beliefs, misinformation, and stigma surrounding menstruation shape male attitudes and impact FSWs. The researchers sought these views to help in a successful and safe menstrual disc implementation. A menstrual disc is an insertable alternative period product to provide 12 hours of protection, let one have mess-free sex.
"When a woman is on her menses, she is a dirty person," one man remarked, summarising the negative sentiments held by many. FSWs, driven by financial necessity, often employ unhygienic methods to hide their menstruation and avoid client rejection. These practices increase their vulnerability to infections and further stigmatize menstruation in their work environment, researchers said.
Their study is titled, “‘Once they see blood then the mood for sex is spoiled’ A qualitative exploration of female sex worker’s male client views of menstruation, sex during menses and the menstrual disc.” They found that most male participants had limited or inaccurate knowledge about menstruation.
Many described it as a process of removing “dirty clots” from the body, reflecting deep-seated stigma and misinformation. Religious teachings often reinforced these attitudes Some participants quoting the Bible to label menstruation as unclean. A few men demonstrated accurate understanding, often due to formal education.
However, the majority lacked basic knowledge about menstrual health. This ignorance not only perpetuates stigma but also fuels negative perceptions of menstruating women, the authors said. When introduced to the concept of a menstrual disc—a reusable product that can be worn during intercourse—most men responded positively.
They viewed the disc as a safe, hygienic, and cost-effective alternative to traditional methods. “It’s hygienic and cost-effective,” one participant said, highlighting its potential to mitigate stigma and improve menstrual hygiene practices.
Some men even expressed interest in purchasing menstrual discs for their wives or girlfriends, suggesting a growing openness to new solutions. “This could be better than sanitary pads,” another participant noted, adding that the disc could help eliminate the visible signs of menstruation that often trigger stigma.
The findings underscore the urgent need to educate boys and men about menstruation. The researchers advocated for incorporating menstrual health into school curricula and addressing misinformation through faith-based teachings.
“Accurate information can combat myths and reduce shame,” the authors wrote. They emphasized that reducing stigma and improving understanding could alleviate the pressure on FSWs while fostering healthier attitudes in society.
The study also highlights the potential of menstrual products like discs to empower FSWs by reducing stigma-related barriers.
However, the researchers caution that addressing the root causes of stigma is essential to achieving lasting change. Authors said that men’s curiosity and willingness to learn about menstrual health, as seen in their receptiveness to the menstrual disc, offer hope for reshaping harmful narratives.