On the topic on menstruation.. considering the vast majority of females to go through this while they are still minors when it starts I don't see how it can be considered taboo. Sure it can make people uncomfortable as a passing conversation but I don't really see it as an issue as long as it's set in proper context and not going into great detail about the shedding of the lining or congealed blood that oozes out in a wide array of shades of red. Or the many other not so pleasant side effects. It's a mile stone that doesn't need a big victory party but is important to everyone who goes through it..even if it simply marks a passing of age. Of course...I had a mother who invited the family out to dinner to announce mine...she was so proud...I crawled under the table...
So I got off track a little... Basically...I say if it's important enough to the character to mention in context to the person she is talking to then it's alright in my opinion. Just don't turn it into her battle cry or something.
EDIT TO ADD MORE:
OK..I seem to have missed the greater point in my above rant..but I think my last statement stands. It's all about context. Keep the topics of conversation in a tone that suits those involved in the conversation. Like two girls talking about their periods makes abit of sense to me...but generally I don't let my male friends know when it's happening for two reasons. First it grosses them out. Second they like use it as an excuse for my bad attitude. Other taboo topics...just make sure if they come up, it comes up in a realistic manner to treat said topics with respect. If it's the sex talk from a parent make the parent abit uncomfortable and clinical but willing to open up abit..maybe an odd moment where they mention themselves and said spouse and teen immediately goes oh dear god stop. It all about common sense. If you wouldn't talk about your faith with someone you know will argue with you what point is there in bringing it up unless you're trying to achieve a greater purpose in the story?
Am I making sense here?