The Media and Menstruation

Being a busy mother of two, my life is constantly hectic with school runs, never-ending laundry, and mediating arguments between siblings. But one thing I always try to make time for is talking to my kids about real-life stuff, especially the things the world doesn’t always handle well, like periods.

Have you ever stopped to think about how menstruation is portrayed in films, TV, and even adverts? If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably cringed at the over-the-top jokes about PMS or rolled your eyes at the ridiculous blue liquid they use to demonstrate pads. Seriously, blue liquid? I can’t help but feel like the media is stuck in the Dark Ages when it comes to showing what periods are actually like.

That’s why I found this article on Menstruation and the Media from Evana so refreshing. It dives into how periods are often poorly represented in the media, either as something embarrassing to hide or as the butt of a joke. And let’s be honest, it’s no surprise that 71% of people still think menstruation is a taboo subject when this is the messaging we’ve been fed for years.

I have seen firsthand how this affects attitudes, particularly among youth. It is easy to see how some children grow up feeling uneasy or even ashamed about their own bodies when periods are depicted as shameful or amusing. And as a mum, that really hits home. I don’t want my kids feeling weird or awkward about something that’s as natural as breathing.

But the Evana article doesn’t just highlight the problem, it also shares examples of where things are starting to improve. Shows like Sex Education are finally normalising conversations about periods, and there are some brilliant adverts out there that are ditching the stigma and just being real. It’s a step in the right direction, and I can’t help but feel hopeful that we’re slowly but surely breaking down those old taboos.

For me, the change starts at home. I’m making sure my kids (yes, my son too!) understand that periods aren’t something to be embarrassed about. We talk openly about it, no whispering “that time of the month” or hiding tampons up sleeves. And if they see something ridiculous on TV, we chat about why it’s unrealistic.

We can all help change the narrative, even though the media still has a lot of work to do. We can create a society in which menstruation is not a big, embarrassing secret, but rather just another aspect of life by being forthright and honest.

If this is a topic that’s got you thinking, then talk to your friends and family about how menstruation is portrayed in the media and make sure the men in your life know about periods, I’ve seen so many videos lately and some are absolutely clueless, let’s change that! 

So, what do you think? Have you noticed how periods are portrayed in the media? Let’s chat in the comments, I’d love to hear your thoughts!