

Giving periods a place in pop culture
Picture this: a bar scene in a television show, where a guy says to his friends, “I’m desperate for a pee.” The woman next to him says, “Me too. And I need to change my sanitary pad.” Not very likely, is it?

A recent global survey we conducted revealed that 37% of participants have never seen a reference to periods in films, TV or fiction, while 42% believe that periods are unnecessarily absent from pop culture.1 Female characters are much more likely to be sliced in half by a chainsaw (what are the chances of that happening?) than shown asking their friends for a pad because they forgot one (which probably happens to every woman in her life). Does mainstream culture create negative consequences in real life by misrepresenting a completely normal part of womanhood?
Key Facts
It’s clear that pop culture plays a role in shaping teen development.
- Tuck sanitary products in a pocket or sleeve
- Carry a handbag with them to the toilet to hide sanitary products
- Avoid wearing white/light clothing
- Cancel plans with friends/partner
- Avoid any physical activity
If we don't see a change in the stigma around periods, then the problems in society will be worse.