Periodsthey
Periodsthey is a neologism that has appeared in online discussions about inclusive language and gender. The term blends “period,” referring to the biological experience of menstruation, with “they,” a widely used gender-neutral pronoun. In some feminist, LGBTQ+ and nonbinary discourse, periodsthey is used to describe or refer to individuals who experience menstruation and who prefer or routinely use they/them pronouns. It is typically encountered in informal writing and is not yet part of formal linguistic usage or standard dictionaries.
Usage and scope: The term aims to highlight that menstruation does not determine a person’s gender identity
Reception and criticism: As a neologism with limited adoption, periodsthey has drawn both support for inclusive
Relation to broader concepts: Periodsthey relates to movements that promote nonbinary pronouns, inclusive language around menstruation,
See also: Non-binary, Gender-neutral pronouns, People who menstruate, Menstruation.