Generation Z, those born between 1997 and 2012, is embracing a new trend that may seem shocking to older generations, with young women encouraged to participate in a historically taboo practice, according to News.com.au.

It's called "free bleeding" and it involves ditching pads and tampons during menstruation.

Who needs pads and tampons? Your initial reaction might be to say that women need these during menstruation, but Generation Z girls are embracing a world without sanitary products.

To be even clearer, it means not using anything that would block the menstrual blood flow.

The trend has become a popular topic of conversation on the social media platform TikTok, where young women share their experiences.

Many are enjoying the natural experience which they find liberating and, indeed, a bit messy.

Content creator Charlee stated that she started free bleeding and, although she acknowledged it was a "crazy" choice, she added that it was "healthy" and saved her money.

However, not everyone has welcomed the trend. "So, you just stain all your clothes", someone remarked. But that comment was immediately ignored.

Annette talked about her experience with free bleeding and said that when she has her period, she doesn't leave the house because she wants to honor her body. "I stay at home when I have my period. I stay at home and bleed", she said on TikTok.

She added that if she had to go out, she would use underwear, but when she's at home, she walks around the house using a towel.

She said free bleeding just "feels different" and claimed that the experience made her menstrual cycles "orgasmic".

Meanwhile, popular TikTok creator Nayda Okamoto posted a video of herself dancing in a bikini while menstruating. "Thank goodness it's a dark color", she added.

Women even claim that free bleeding has changed their cycles. TikTok content creator Hannah went viral when she claimed that after switching to free bleeding, her period was "easier than ever".

The post sparked a lengthy conversation in which women said they found their cycles became easier once they embraced free bleeding. "Same", someone commented.

Another woman said she went from heavy menstruation for five days to bleeding for only two days after no longer using tampons.

Another young woman who chose free bleeding said the experience "changed her life" and now she "bleeds for just one day".

Dr. Amy Carmichael said that while it was "intriguing" to hear that some women reported perceiving their menstruation as easier when practicing free bleeding, there is not enough evidence to support these claims.

"Currently, there is no scientific research available to support the claim that free bleeding leads to easier periods", she said.

However, the doctor adds that tampons are sometimes known to cause additional pain during menstruation.

"It is essential to recognize that the use of internal menstrual products, such as tampons, can contribute to menstrual cramps as they are foreign objects in the body", Dr. Carmichael said.

Although there is no research confirming any additional benefits of free bleeding, that does not necessarily mean it is a bad idea.

Dr. Carmichael emphasized that free bleeding is not "unhealthy" and simply depends on people's "personal preferences".

"It is essential to respect individual choices regarding menstrual hygiene practices", she added.

Dr. Carmichael also said that the free bleeding trend is a positive thing because it has helped "destigmatize menstruation".

According to the doctor, it is crucial to promote open discussions about menstrual flow in the workplace and within families and encourage a culture of self-care during menstruation.

"This perspective is supported by scientific evidence showing that hormonal changes during menstruation can heighten certain sensitivities, and by promoting an environment that respects and supports women during this time, we contribute to reducing the stigma surrounding menstruation".