Welcome in! So glad you're here.

Welcome to Menstrual Memories — a space where our stories, cycles, and collective strength come together. Menstrual Memories is a growing narrative collection and community resource centered on the lived experiences of women and people who menstruate. Whether you currently have a period, had one in the past, no longer have a uterus, or are simply seeking connection, understanding, or solidarity — you belong here.

​

The name Menstrual Memories was inspired by the powerful storytelling found in Breath, Eyes, Memory by Edwidge Danticat — a Haitian-American author whose work beautifully explores themes of womanhood, memory, culture, and liberation. Her words remind us of the importance of reclaiming our voices and remembering who we are through our own lens — not society’s.

​

At Menstrual Memories, we believe our menses are more than biology — they are deeply personal, often misunderstood, and shaped by culture, history, and policy. By sharing our menstrual journeys — from our first bleed to menopause and everything in between — we create a rich tapestry of truth. These stories help us name the ways menstruation impacts our lives socially, economically, culturally, politically, professionally, and personally.

​

Here, you'll find honest, raw, and often empowering stories told by women across generations. You’ll also discover tools, resources, and conversations that challenge stigma, promote education, and foster healing. This is the story you never thought you needed to tell. 

​

We invite you to explore, reflect, share, and most importantly — feel seen. This is your community. Your story matters. Let’s honor our past, speak our truths, and rise together.

​​​​

My name is Cleola "Cleo" Payne, and I’m the Director of Menstrual Memories. I created this space out of a deep love and enduring passion for women’s health. My journey began early—witnessing my mother give birth to my siblings sparked a lifelong curiosity about childbirth and reproductive care. After college, I followed that calling and trained as a doula, supporting families across the Northeast and Deep South.

​

Professionally, I’ve served as a project manager, community organizer, lead facilitator, and communications officer from the streets of Boston to a global healthcare nonprofit. Alongside my work, I pursued advanced training and earned my Master of Public Health from Dartmouth. My commitment to education, storytelling, and equity continues to shape Menstrual Memories—a space where healing, history, and community meet.

​

​

Honor. Heal. Rise. ​​