As part of the development of a new ISO vocabulary standard for menstrual products, experts are working to unify terminology across diverse cultural, regulatory, and industry contexts. Convenor Tanya Mahajan shares insights into the challenges of creating inclusive, de-stigmatizing language—while balancing technical accuracy and global adoption.
Ms Mahajan is leading the work with the vocabulary standard for menstrual products, and we asked her what the biggest challenges are in unifying terms and vocabulary for this specific standard, in her opinion.
– Well, the biggest challenge has been finding common ground in terms of terminology and specific terms used by different types of stakeholders.
When we started working on vocabulary, we had a twofold objective. One was to create a common language among all stakeholders to discuss the products and related safety. The other was to inform consumers. We also wanted to explore how this language could help de-stigmatize menstruation—both on the supply side, among industry stakeholders, and among consumers—by normalizing the use of more inclusive and stigma-free terminology.
For example, the term sanitary pad implies that something needs to be cleaned, which can suggest that menstruation is dirty. So, using menstrual products instead of sanitary products, or menstrual pads instead of sanitary pads, is one way to help de-stigmatize menstrual health within the industry.
The difficult part is that many stakeholders across the industry are used to certain types of terminology. So, we had to ensure that this change wouldn’t limit their ability to continue their work, while still allowing us to meet our goal of de-stigmatization and other objectives.
Are there other significant differences between countries in how terms related to the topic are expressed? Can you give some examples?
– Yes. For example, there are differences in gender-related terminology connected to menstruation, the biology of menstruation, and how menstruation and people who menstruate are defined.
In some countries, we aim to use gender-neutral language as much as possible. However, we must be aware that in certain contexts, using gender-neutral language might actually limit the adoption of the standard. So, we are trying to find a middle ground—where we don’t compromise on gender neutrality but still facilitate adoption and ownership by national governments.
You mentioned the gender issue, are there other terms that have been challenging?
– Yes. The shift from feminine hygiene products or sanitary pads to menstrual products or menstrual pads was a challenge when we first started. Some industry stakeholders were concerned that this change might come at a cost.
But we found a way to work around it. Similarly, we wanted to use women, girls, and people who menstruate as a gender-neutral reference. However, having a very explicit definition of what that encompasses can be challenging.
We’ve also faced challenges with technical terms. This is also an opportunity to educate consumers about what safety means. So, terms related to material safety and microbiological safety will be included in the standard. This helps promote consumer awareness around the safety of menstrual products.
Reaching agreement on certain technical terms within the committee has been a journey. I wouldn’t say it’s impossible, it’s just been a journey. Thank you!
If you are interested in becoming a member, you can reach out to your National Standards Body ISO – Members or if you have any questions or need more information, please contact Ms Jenny Acaralp, Committee Manager ([email protected]).