Bodyform now urging other feminine hygiene brands to follow the lead and launch initiatives to smash period taboos and fight period poverty.
“Periods are a taboo subject, but they are slowly and surely moving up the agenda. They are a part of a woman’s life and yet are stigmatized and not spoken about. We know this has an impact on young women,” emphasizes Baxter.
As shown in the results, parents are a large part of the issue due to their lack of pursuit to have a conversation about menstruation with their daughters. We spoke to father and stand-up comedian, Steve Herndon, about his role as a father to daughter Saffron. He reflects on the roles of fathers in breaking down the period taboo:
“I would say, the role would be listening and understanding, and obviously patience, that’s key to parenthood, certainly key to this situation. I know that young ladies are going to be shy – if you’ve never had a dialogue about personal issues your whole life with your young daughter, it’s going to be a difficult leap – but as a man if you have the courage to let them know they can talk to you about anything –– let them know that as a man, that you’re not unknowledgeable, that you want to be there for them and support them,” advises Herndon.
As a major influencer worldwide, we believe talking about this subject is just as important as raising knowledge and improving care. This is crucial for human dignity and quality of life for not only millions of girls and women, but the family unit as well.
“The positive impact and value that discussions around menstruation can have on families is huge. Simply starting a dialog can lead to an improved trust between family members. And we’re not just talking about strengthening relationships between mothers and daughters, even though it’s logical and natural to want to talk to someone who’s experienced it. With only 3% of people surveyed having first heard about periods from their fathers, it’s time for the discussion to involve them, as well as sons or brothers to increase knowledge and extend the support base,” states Baxter.
As for first-hand tips for parents having difficulties talking to their children about periods, Steve Herndon has some wise words to share:
“It’s just like standup; it’s tremendously uncomfortable the first time you go on stage, your knees are shaking and you feel like you’re about to throw up. Then the second time your knees shake less, and the third time you’re wondering why you were so scared in the first place.”