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Mom Praised By 65k People On Facebook For Encouraging Her Sons To See Past Menstruation Taboo
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Mom Praised By 65k People On Facebook For Encouraging Her Sons To See Past Menstruation Taboo

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Let’s face it: some topics are a little bit more embarrassing than others to discuss, but perhaps becoming slightly more compliant, being understanding and open-minded would make all the difference. But what if, as normal as it is, the topic is tight with stigmas and taboos all around the world? This mother has decided to give it a try and challenge the public so that her kids can develop healthy social habits as they grow.

And she did it in the most natural way: nonchalantly suggesting that perhaps it would be a good idea for her sons to carry tampons in their backpacks, and as any modern parent would—she shared it with the whole internet. Bored Panda got in touch with the debate igniting lady behind this story and had a chat about menstruation taboos and its public reception.

This is Micah and Elijah, and their mom taught them to carry period supplies on them

Image credits: Tara Ahrens

Blogger Tara Ahrens, a mother of 4, shared a picture on a private Facebook page, Pantsuit Nation, that has reached over 65k likes and counting. The photo of her sons in the shopping aisle for underwear tagging along to buy bras for her daughters at Target read “My teenage boys helped me shop today, which included buying their little sister’s first bras… because breasts happen.”

She also added that “Both boys carry a tampon and a pad in their backpacks in case one of their friends needs one. Just a mom out here, trying to erase gender taboo!!” and watched it do its job.

Mom Tara decided to erase the gender taboo of menstruation and started from her own family

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Image credits: Tara Ahrens

“I was and still am shocked that my post was so controversial. I shared it, not as virtue signaling, but as a parenting idea. I am always reading and looking for ideas on how to make my family better humans. I truly love reading all of the sweet stories of women and men who are completely comfortable offering assistance to others!” but Tara also admitted that she wasn’t prepared for the vitriol that would come along with the good.

Image credits: Tara Ahrens

She explained to her two sons Micah and Elijah how mortifying bleed-throughs are, that it can even be traumatizing, and how far kindness and understanding shown by others goes in that situation. With that, she also questioned why naturally occurring physical processes should be in any way embarrassing.

And the mother herself was inspired by a story about a man on the Appalachian trail who gave a tampon from his backpack to a woman who had a bleed-through. One day, while driving in their car, she decided to casually put it out there to her teenage boys that they should perhaps carry a tampon in their backpack in case any of their friends had an emergency. And as she learned later, at the end of the school year, one of her sons actually had a situation where one of his fellow students needed a sanitary pad rather than a tampon and since that day, he made sure that both he and his brother also had some pads.

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Image credits: Tara Ahrens

According to Tara’s son Micah, the girls at school at first seemed to be slightly embarrassed by him letting them know that he had emergency period supplies as advised by his mum, but ended up coming to terms with it. Her other son Elijah followed, doing the same—just this time, letting all of his friends know that. He also pointed out that a few boys were making fun of him, but eventually came to terms with it.

Tara also expressed her disappointment at public schools not having menstruation product dispensers available and also costing money if they happened to have one. “Many people clearly do not understand period poverty and how it affects girls. Studies show that many high school girls miss class time and even days at school because of a lack of supplies. While some girls have a guardian in their life who makes sure they have supplies, it would be cruel to assume everyone does. Public assistance does not cover period products and our schools no longer have supplies in the bathrooms, and when they do, they cost money.”

Despite a few other boys making fun of Elijah, he let all of his friends know that he has sanitary supplies

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Image credits: Tara Ahrens

A case of a parent discussing menstruation openly with their sons and sharing that publicly was already a not-so-common occurrence. In some ways, Tara’s post was a trailblazer, receiving a copious amount of support for breaking the taboo of menstruation. It also prompted women from other generations to share their experiences from their younger days when they would get their periods unexpectedly and would get embarrassed in public.

“I think it has always been taboo, historically speaking, as women didn’t have the right to vote, own property, or even keep their children until relatively recently, so we have come a long way. I understand toxic masculinity, but my question was, ‘How do I raise safe, considerate men?'” Tara believes that change has to start with the person themself when it comes to altering society. “I am often told how lucky I am to have my husband, and I truly am happy to share my life with him, but why should I be ‘lucky’? Why aren’t good men the norm?” Tara raised the question, presenting some serious food for thought.

The mom’s mission is to raise her boys as real men who see past any outdated stigmas

Image credits: Tara Ahrens

What she noticed throughout the comments was a trend of humiliation, shame, and helplessness regarding the topic of menstruation as well as various levels of praise from other mothers and fathers when it comes to parenting. She was surprised while reading certain comments admitting that husbands or fathers would in no way go to stores to get period supplies and that women should care for their own stack of pads.

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“I don’t have time to criticize how other women choose to address periods in their home because I am focused on researching the best ways to raise my own kids and we all know, the minute you think you’ve handled one situation with one child, the other three have their own,” Tara underlined that being a mother is hard, as any mother would. “We choose to use anatomically correct words and try to give honest, age-appropriate answers to tough questions and some parents were very open to my ideas and made it clear it’s not for them.” In her opinion, parenting today is a lot of gathering ideas and discarding/modifying them to meet your specific family’s needs.

Image credits: Tara Ahrens

Below, you can check out a few heartwarming comments in response to Tara’s post. Let us know what do you think about boys helping their friends when they’re experiencing period difficulties, how we as society are doing in breaking through taboos, and speaking out about challenging topics as well as modern parenting. You can find the comments section at the end of the article.

And here are a few responses to Tara’s post

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Image credits: Tara Ahrens

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sleazyweaver avatar
Sleazy Weaver
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm a trans guy on testosterone so I no longer get periods &, despite the fear of being misgendered, I still keep period supplies on me for those that need them. It feels great being able to help people, so hats off to this mom for raising kids who make a positive difference in their community! It's a big benefit for everyone involved!

casataylor avatar
Amy Taylor
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had to have a hysterectomy a few years ago, and I'm going to follow your lead on that :)

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viviane_katz avatar
Viviane
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I know two men (a married couple) raising a girl. A male relative asked me "But how will they talk to her about periods?" I dunno, use semaphore and coded messages tied to a pigeon's leg??

243102 avatar
Little Dino
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is amazing! Unfortunately, I can't even talk with my dad about it, my mom whispers if she needs to tell me something too, because of "taboo" (they're immigrants and it's even more taboo over there). I wish more people were like this :)

kha_duong_1 avatar
K.
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hahaha. My dad is outnumbered by girls. He had to get over it.

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leoh avatar
Leo H
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Im curious..how many times do girls go running to male friends over period issues.

carolinehelies02 avatar
Caroline
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You seem to be the only one saying this in the comments, but I agree with you. I'm a girl, and I would never go to a boy for this, I would go to another girl. Periods are not boys responsibility, or should they also start carrying the contraceptive pill? The only time I'd ask a boy and be okay with him carrying stuff is if we were a couple. I'm waiting for the red arrows.

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iapetosdertitan avatar
Iapetos
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That is very kind of these men. Still, I wonder if it is 100 % necessary to take care for everybody else's problems. But sure, you can, and if you do, you're great.

kha_duong_1 avatar
K.
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It’s not anyone’s responsibility to take care of everybody else’s needs, but like you said if “you can, and if you do, you’re great.” Also, as you have said, “that is very kind” of them. Good thing feminine hygiene products don’t take up much space, and if we keep pushing for it, it will be free and available in most public places. At no point was I criticizing you, just building on your points.

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luthervonwolfen avatar
Luther von Wolfen
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I went to 7-11 to get some for a friend who was waitressing. The female clerk shouted to a female customer that I was getting tampons for "his woman". They acted like I was some kind of hero & their men would never do such a thing.

softballchick_39 avatar
softballchick_39 avatar
Lis A
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I tried to post this as a general comment, not reply. Anyone who does this is a great human!

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angelanagel avatar
Yoga Kitty
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Although this is very nice and thoughtful I do not think that it is somehow necessary for boys to carry menstruation supplies? They do not need them. I do not carry products for other people with me that I myself have no use for. Girls nearing a certain age (respectively weight, if they are still younger) should have their own stash to carry with them in case they start suddenly. However, this mum is very right in teaching that menstruation is not a taboo - it is just biology! In addition, please also look into information regarding menstruation cups. They not only safe a lot of money and waste over time, they can also be of great help for girls and women having problems with tampons or pads. It takes a little bit of practice to put them in the correct position easily but they do not cause any allergies, no uncomfortable dryness or damage to this sensitive area as they are made out of silicone. Some users even report that they have less cramps etc. I can really recommend trying!

giovannat1979 avatar
giovanna
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I agree with you. I don't think it's necessary for them to carry tampons with them. It's quite excessive I think. On the other hand, well done to mother for talking to her boys about periods in a natural way

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saihoekstra avatar
Sanne H.
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I strongly support the idea of boys understanding the female reproduction system, but it’s a bit weird to me to let boys carry something with them that they themselves don’t need. I mean: I would be happy to share my period supplies, napkins, chewing gum, pencils etc when anyone else needs it, but sharing is not the main and only reason I carry those around.

ekaterinavalova avatar
Botox
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Tampons are handy in case of bleeding nose, no matter what gender is. And pads are just soft absorbent pads with quite some ways of using, like for blister on foot etc. So why not?

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brandivansteenwyk avatar
Brandi VanSteenwyk
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This promotes respect for the opposite sex in both directions. I wish I had thought to have my son do this. No doubt, considering he was always up for a quick run to the store for me, he would have happily done so. Heroes can fly to the rescue in many ways.

heathervance avatar
AzKhaleesi
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I love this all boys should be taught compassion. I think I'm going to get my sons to do this too, how I've never thought of this is beyond me, I will say my oldest is 16 and he's so sweet, thanks to us three females (his two sisters and me) sync up that boy will go get us chocolate and / or caramel coffees that time of the month just because he knows we need it lol. Just this week he bought a box of chocolate off a girl at school just so she could win the prize (60 dollars worth) with his OWN MONEY. Good boy. I asked why and he was like because she's my friend and I'm gonna help her win...plus I'll be ready for you and sisters when next month comes. lol

vidimlic62 avatar
Mimi777
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Aww seem like you’re doing a great job raising him. He sounds like a good kid.

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amyjanzer avatar
AMY JANZER
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is so amazing! These young men are doing "being human" right and mom has DEFINITELY done "parenting" right. I absolutely love reading posts like this, especially after the disaster that 2020 was. I hope more parents teach their sons this.

junksmail777 avatar
John Smith
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Growing up with two woman, I was constantly faced with feminine hygiene products of all kinds. They would send me to buy them all the time, so to me it was always normal. I used to walk through the store isles with them slung over my shoulders, and when I didn’t know what to find would ask other women in the store—who were surprised by my asking. I always carry these on me when I travel with the family as now I have to daughters, and my two boys are not phased by it either. It really does not have to be a taboo.

sauveurandrew8 avatar
Drew Sauveur
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I used to carry tampons and pads. (I'm a guy), because I played rugby, and a coach said the best thing for a nosebleed was to put a tampon in your nose. I never had to use it, but I do remember a girlfriend telling me we had to go home from a bush party because she didn't have any on her and she'd started her period. I handed her a tampon....

emory_ce avatar
Carol Emory
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I carry incontinence pads in my purse when I'm out in public. Not every woman uses a tampon and some women (quite a few actually) have endometriosis where they bleed heavily during the first few days of their period. I wish the manufacturers of feminine products would realize this and make larger pads, but until then, I carry Poise Pads.

fredericeeckman avatar
frederic eeckman
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was raised by a mom who always explained everything to me in a nice and simple way, and I grew up with 2 sisters older than me so I learned very early everything about tampons, menstruations,pms and everything related to that. It was never a taboo, and I was carrying tampons and pads in my schoolbag when I was 14, since a girl in my classroom had a traumatic experience (periods + white pants and nothing to use). I guess one of the major step would be to teach early to young boys that it's a natural and normal process, and that it's nothing to be embarrassed to talk about !

rrstute avatar
Relissa Stute
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Great to teach boys about women's bodys but do they really need to go around boasting/promoting how heroic they are for carrying personal products around so they can look like some sort of heroes. Dont agree? Look at those giant grins.

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s-madobre avatar
TheWeeknd
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That is a GOOD mom thoooo. In sixth grade, my friend had gotten hers right after i got mine and i gave her a pad and she was like NOOO IM NOT EVEN SURE I HAVE IT I'LL JUST PUT TOILET PAPER lmao so yea sometimes friends don't want help?

leodomitrix avatar
Leo Domitrix
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Always carried spares, b/c you never know when someone else (or you) might need. Why? My mom. Men, please, educate yourself on how this works. We're not in control, it doesn't send a polite text message saying, "Be there in ten minutes!", and it's just part of life. Flatulence, periods, it happens, and it's all natural, okay? Bodies doing what they do. My dad had only daughters, and couldn't even be in a room if the word "period" was mentioned in context of grammar, let alone "that stuff". (His words.) Also, yes, many girls cannot deal with tampons for various reasons, so please also have pads (or napkins, as one's slang prefers) on hand. We get taxed when we buy 'em in the store, we have to buy 'em from vending machines, and in my day, school nurses did NOT have any! On behalf of cranky menopausal-type women, thank you, and peace.

shaynameidela avatar
Dorothy Parker
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Such a caring respectful thing to teach young men. Interesting that there is a clarity and openness in their faces not often seen. Well done to their mom.

jo_davies2208 avatar
Jo Davies
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Way back in the 80s I was in High School, in a hostel. There was a girl who was an only child, being raised by a single dad. "Such things" were not spoken about and she had no idea about cycles or supplies, etc. We had horrible white and orange checked cotton uniforms and one day she started during class and was very obvious. One of the hostel boys told her quietly and she burst out crying from embarrassment and wouldn't tell us why. Her champion told a few of us hostel girls to take her to the dorms get her cleaned up and sorted with supplies and talk to her. Then he told the boys in the class to grow up and stop laughing. He became all of our's hero that day.

anneflitton avatar
Xandra, The Little Hufflepuff
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was in a show this last week, and got the WORST cramps. I did not care that the guys knew I was on my period. But the guys were chill about it (no they aren't gay, but they are in theatre). They kept checking on me, one guy gave me midol, and they kept asking if I wanted a hug. (The answer was always yes.)

lassila-alexander avatar
Aragorn II Elessar
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I do that too. I’ve never had a situation come up, but in the event that it does, I’ll be ready.

kha_duong_1 avatar
K.
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

She’s a great mom. These boys were very kind and brave, which is weird and unnecessary of me to say in the first place. I’m glad their friends came around. We’re just trying to look out after one another.

rayjen0402 avatar
Jennifer Crompton
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

During college, I was over at a guy friend's apartment when my period started unexpectedly I folded up a bunch of TP for a makeshift pad and let him know I'd be back in a few minutes after a run to the store for some tampons. To my utter amazement, he pipes up "no need. I have some under the sink. I figured someone would need one sooner or later". I was so impressed that he was so open and prepared! Must have had a mom like this

jim9591 avatar
Jim Pederson
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When I was in the military I always carried Tampax and tampons when deployed to combat zones. The Tampax will slow down a bullet wound bleed out and the tampon makes great improvised bandages.

martingibbs734 avatar
martin734
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have always carried sanitary pads and tampons in my first aid kit as they make very good dressings and wound plugs as well as well as being available for their intended purpose if requested.

redinflorida avatar
_
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I like that, raising real men. In my opinion, a real man does the 3 P's; protect those that need it; profess that he is part of a family; and help provide for those he cares for. This is a fantastic example. (I got this idea from someone else, but I don't remember who. Not my original idea.)

kellyhoover avatar
Kelly Hoover
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When I was a kid my first period happened when I was visiting my dad. Totally unprepared & embarrassed, I called my mom who talked to him. My dad took me to the store & helped me buy pads. He was very cool about it and didn't try to be funny/sarcastic, and that made all the difference to my 11 yo self. This mom is awesome!!! Those boys are going to be Great adult men someday. Very nice

skatey1979 avatar
Celeste Grant
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The friendzone doesn't exist! If you are being friends with a girl in the hope of it turning into something more that is your choice; it does not mean a women owes you more just because you're nice to her! If you are doing those nice things just to get sexual favours (or even a relationship) from a woman you are not the "nice guy" you think you are! Men and women can be friends and help each other out; it is not emasculating to do something nice for a woman! I think most women would appreciate being helped out like this in a moment of need but that should never come with conditions! If sticking a pad or a tampon in your back pack is threatening to your masculinity perhaps you aren't ready to have a mature respectful relationship with a women!

teucert avatar
Teucer T
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Do you not understand what the term "friend zone" means? It's when tbe person you're interested in "only sees you as a friend."

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skatey1979 avatar
Celeste Grant
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is just brilliant! I suffered from horrific bleeds that came on with no warning from my very first period until my hysterectomy 25 years later thanks to endometriosis. I always carried suppose including fresh underwear, and have given them away many times. My high school boyfriend used to carry them too just in case even though on a couple of occasions his male friends teased him. I taught my brother to do the same and that's actually how he met his wife! There should be no shame for anyone carrying supplies and no shame for asking either. I still have a make up purse with supplies in my handbag just in case I meet someone who is in need. Surely it's just a kindness we can all show one another!

leoh avatar
Leo H
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So i now have to wonder..does the mom now do the same for the daughter..like take her shopping for the boy's underwear..cause penis and testicles..will the daughter carry condoms..just in case a male friend needs one

nekonekokawaii08 avatar
sylvanticx
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i love it when men are nice about periods. i told my best camp friend about mine and he was scared it would happen during a camping trip. it was sweet.

katie-trondsen avatar
KT
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As adults we all applaud this, but thinking as a teenager mind set i can imagine they would be made fun of by their peers, even ridiculed

ccilev_ avatar
Cécile V.
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

GOOD! ENFIN! Thanks to the mom and her two boys. This IS education and well done. In my country France, some students are so poor they say that pads and diapers are too expensive on her budget so They don't buy them. I was mute. Couldn't believe it. Then it came on media. People from the government said we will make it free. I don't know if they did it. Anyways it should be free for all women. We were born this way! When I had little money I would make my own pads sometimes but asked for medication. So finally, tabou is almost over. Women having menstruation are still kept apart from the communities in some countries because considered as "impure". Africa... And not long ago banned from churches in South ouest villages. Old women not educated are the worst. They maintained the bad traditions and silences. How many little girls are still operated with excision ? I have no idea now..

annabdelzaher_1 avatar
Ann Abdelzaher
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have an almost 13-year-old son. I have taught him all about periods and stuff but I haven't asked him to carry anything, but he has definitely learned about being empathetic about it.

patriciasloan avatar
Patricia Sloan
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was so appalled and mad at my younger son who was in 8th grade, told me he got in trouble because he and I quote"I told the gross girl next to me to take a bath cause she was on her period and smelled like fish", I was furious with him. He's 16 now and has a longtime girlfriend who has terrible periods and he finally has sympathy and compassion that girls really can suffer. I hope he sees that poor girl he vocally fun of during class and apologizes to her.

teucert avatar
Teucer T
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am completely amazed at the number of people in the "high school boys should carry tampons at all times so high school girls don't have to" camp.

teucert avatar
Teucer T
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Actually a great idea. When they're in their 20s they'll have to go to the store every month to get their girlfriends' supplies anyway, so they may as well get used to it early.

lisa518us avatar
Lisa Pockat Bork
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Applause to this mom and her sons! Everyone else that is that thoughtful too!

sleepinglioness avatar
somnomania
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

these young men are going to be the most popular in school and their jobs for the rest of their lives, good for their mom! i've bled through, it's no fun at all, and i would've adored any boy who had supplies on hand.

katharina_fellerer avatar
Kat Hi
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sry, but HOW STUPID IS THIS??!!! Don´t we have any bigger issues, then carrying a tampon with you, in case a girls needs it???? And what are the boys raised to? Being the knight on a horse, that hands the girl in need the stuff, that she needs? Being a big hero? Like wtf. .... bying bras for the sister????!!! So she can not buy it herself??? What about privacy??!! Wtf, this is so sick. Even sicker, that so many people celebrate her. For what?! For raising the kids to a "gentleman", that hands the poor girl a tampon? When she thought she is lost? But then: HEY! I am your saviour. Sry. WTF

yesanded_1 avatar
Ed
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow, a woman who managed to neuter her entire family.

mccanlessdesign avatar
Forrest McCanless
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

in high school I (male) worked for a small firm, and had gotten injured and was bleeding fairly dramatically - the owner's wife provided a pad for me so I wouldn't mess up her car as she took me to the ER. With only brothers, I had no idea just how effective they were!

johnlm1981 avatar
John Montgomery
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why does Bored panda need to change the titles? A few days ago this referred to the kids carrying women's products or something similar. Today it talks about the taboo of menstruation.

david_smojver avatar
Dave
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Another attention seeking bullshit, creating an issue out of thin air, then "fighting for justice". This type of self-absorbed BS is sickening. Personally, I never considered this to be an issue and my mom was sending me to buy the feminine products when I was way younger than her two kids. ONe thing I can say, this type of stupid never ceases to amaze me.

artishhousing avatar
Artish Housing
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hey, I appreciate your quality stuff and I would love to read more informative posts like this one. keep sharing. los angeles artist

kim_lorton avatar
Kim Lorton
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

His is the most wonderful bored panda post I’ve seen! Way to go Tara! And way to teach your young men, about young women. It makes them less of a sex object in men’s minds , and views. They will be spectacular men one day! And respectful of womankind. My husband, when we were dating, once went to the store for tampons for me, while I was visiting him. No fussing no problem for him! He grew up with one brother and his dad! Thank you, for doing what all mothers of sons should be able to do.

marymaney avatar
Mae (just add water)
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Damn that bra rack at target was so neater than tho one i have... I even saw the bra I’m wearing rn!! Lol

ubermensch avatar
uber mensch
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good for her for starting the conversation, and particularly the sons for following up on it - I expect they're already a couple of winners that are only going to get better.

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Jason Doakes
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Cool boys, I must say, but first of all, why do Americans want a medal for being human, and is it just me or is approaching your schoolmates and telling them, hey I have tampons for you, creepy af? And to conclude, if the USA would finally do something against bullying at school instead of rewarding the pieces of sh*t with leader-positions and scholarships, and if the USA would educate their students instead of trying to fulfill a quota with shitty tests just to get the money, and if the USA would finally spend money FOR their citizens instead of against them, all these intimate discussions about bodily fluids, done by attention-hungry mothers, wouldn't even be necessary.

kkermes avatar
Kim Kermes
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I mean, nose blowing is fairly disgusting, but tissues are out in plain sight...

tsweda avatar
Thomas Sweda
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Just saying, wouldn’t it be easier if the girls just carried the period supplies at all times instead?

leoh avatar
Leo H
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's one thing to enlighten your sons about girls. It's another to emasculate them...you talk about periods being taboo..how about childhood trauma/ humilation..yep mom took us bra shopping and made us carry tampons...whats next? High heels...so the boys know what women endure

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Joe Brady
Community Member
3 years ago

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I assume their father is out of the picture

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Joe Brady
Community Member
3 years ago

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These poor boys are going to be 1) Ignored by the boys 2) Friendzoned by the girls 3) End up married to a woman who takes advantage of them

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Todd Hollfelder
Community Member
3 years ago

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I learned something new here. How can a trans guy have a hysterectomy? They aren't born having those parts and the body doesn't just grow random parts because of hormones?

sleazyweaver avatar
Sleazy Weaver
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Heyo, trans guy here! A lot of people get confused between a trans man & a trans woman. A trans man is born as female but identifies as male. That means he has a female reproductive system. But because he's a man, it would be insensitive to call him a trans woman. The same goes for trans women: they're born with a male reproductive system, but are referred to as female because that's what they are & it's the respectful thing to do. Basically, it's the trans part that tells you what reproductive system they have & it's the guy/girl/man/woman part that tells you what the person identifies as. Thanks for asking questions & educating yourself! I'm happy to answer anything else you might be curious about!

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Spork420
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3 years ago

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While they have good intentions, it really comes off as just creepy and strange. Mom is sure setting these poor teens up for the friendzone for sure.

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Alex King
Community Member
3 years ago

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To put it simply, this is why the world is in such a mess.

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Damon Tripodi
Community Member
3 years ago

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Wouldn't it be better if they learned CPR, carried an EpiPen, inhaler, or maybe just carried toilet paper?

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Lúthien
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would assume epi pens expire, and that youd need a prescription for epi pens, so , bad attempt at criticizing

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Jette Wang Wahnon
Community Member
3 years ago

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just a few questions....are school nurses extinct in the US ? is sexual education in schools also extinct ? and what young female having her first period would want a grubby teen-age boy handing her an equally grubby pad from his jeans pocket or back-pack ??

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Alexis draskinis
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

School nurses are still around, just without enough budget to carry pads & tampons. Sexual education is still also a thing, but is still sometimes separated into genders. It also doesnt give a count down until your 1st period or any of the rest of them. Wish they did though. That would be awesome! And im pretty sure any young female would be happy to a pad, even a grubby one from a boy, vs having to plug up with a wad of toilet paper, especially if its the 1st time...

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Leo H
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3 years ago

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Why tampoons..your sons have no clue what individual girls use..what their flow may be like..nor did you inform them about toxic shock syndrome...seems ignorant for boys to be handing out tampons...seems like you left out a whole lot of info

viviane_katz avatar
Viviane
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If a girl has her first period or just started it or ran out of pads or tampons, she might not be picky. I would be content with a stopgap measure.

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S. Tor Storm
Community Member
3 years ago

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she should probably teach them that they wont get periods

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Bole Perishon
Community Member
3 years ago

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Sooo, she teaches them to haul around something they'll never need on the off chance they might give it to someone who was too dumb and unaware to have their own needs taken care of. Being kind and mindful is one thing. This is just dumb.

astridborgen avatar
Lúthien
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have a first aid kit, will probably never need it, should I get rid of it? :P

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David Retsler
Community Member
3 years ago

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They'll be well prepared for the next school shooting.

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ProfessionalTimeWaster
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

@David - To stop bleeding, you have to apply pressure so that blood clots and bleeding stops. Tampons would absorb the blood without providing much resistance. Tampons can barely absorb 10 ml. If you are bleeding from GSW....that's nothing! You bleed in drops during periods - 60 to 80 ml in 3-5 days, unlike GSW which will not only be a LOT of blood released quickly, it'd also be pressurized blood. It would become squishy within seconds. Tampons don't stand a chance in helping GSW injuries. Plus if you insert it into the wound, you are risking serious chances of infection.

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tomruns12
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3 years ago (edited)

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How long before these guys get charged with sexual harassment. EDIT: Because people jump to conclusions way too quickly and I wasnt clear in my comment. I did not mean that what they were doing was sexual harassment in any way but that some women these days are misconstruing kindness with harassment these days.

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Me
Community Member
3 years ago

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Way to wussify your sons. They'll never get any dates. Why don't you buy them purses to carry their tampons in, maybe you could get some lipstick and eye liner ,etc for their purses in case someone runs out.!! ...lol...

delphinum4 avatar
Zophra
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Never thought of compassion as wussification. The ridicule kinda makes you sound like a insecure wussy yourself.

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Sleazy Weaver
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm a trans guy on testosterone so I no longer get periods &, despite the fear of being misgendered, I still keep period supplies on me for those that need them. It feels great being able to help people, so hats off to this mom for raising kids who make a positive difference in their community! It's a big benefit for everyone involved!

casataylor avatar
Amy Taylor
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had to have a hysterectomy a few years ago, and I'm going to follow your lead on that :)

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Viviane
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I know two men (a married couple) raising a girl. A male relative asked me "But how will they talk to her about periods?" I dunno, use semaphore and coded messages tied to a pigeon's leg??

243102 avatar
Little Dino
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is amazing! Unfortunately, I can't even talk with my dad about it, my mom whispers if she needs to tell me something too, because of "taboo" (they're immigrants and it's even more taboo over there). I wish more people were like this :)

kha_duong_1 avatar
K.
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hahaha. My dad is outnumbered by girls. He had to get over it.

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leoh avatar
Leo H
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Im curious..how many times do girls go running to male friends over period issues.

carolinehelies02 avatar
Caroline
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You seem to be the only one saying this in the comments, but I agree with you. I'm a girl, and I would never go to a boy for this, I would go to another girl. Periods are not boys responsibility, or should they also start carrying the contraceptive pill? The only time I'd ask a boy and be okay with him carrying stuff is if we were a couple. I'm waiting for the red arrows.

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Iapetos
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That is very kind of these men. Still, I wonder if it is 100 % necessary to take care for everybody else's problems. But sure, you can, and if you do, you're great.

kha_duong_1 avatar
K.
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It’s not anyone’s responsibility to take care of everybody else’s needs, but like you said if “you can, and if you do, you’re great.” Also, as you have said, “that is very kind” of them. Good thing feminine hygiene products don’t take up much space, and if we keep pushing for it, it will be free and available in most public places. At no point was I criticizing you, just building on your points.

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Luther von Wolfen
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I went to 7-11 to get some for a friend who was waitressing. The female clerk shouted to a female customer that I was getting tampons for "his woman". They acted like I was some kind of hero & their men would never do such a thing.

softballchick_39 avatar
softballchick_39 avatar
Lis A
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I tried to post this as a general comment, not reply. Anyone who does this is a great human!

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angelanagel avatar
Yoga Kitty
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Although this is very nice and thoughtful I do not think that it is somehow necessary for boys to carry menstruation supplies? They do not need them. I do not carry products for other people with me that I myself have no use for. Girls nearing a certain age (respectively weight, if they are still younger) should have their own stash to carry with them in case they start suddenly. However, this mum is very right in teaching that menstruation is not a taboo - it is just biology! In addition, please also look into information regarding menstruation cups. They not only safe a lot of money and waste over time, they can also be of great help for girls and women having problems with tampons or pads. It takes a little bit of practice to put them in the correct position easily but they do not cause any allergies, no uncomfortable dryness or damage to this sensitive area as they are made out of silicone. Some users even report that they have less cramps etc. I can really recommend trying!

giovannat1979 avatar
giovanna
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I agree with you. I don't think it's necessary for them to carry tampons with them. It's quite excessive I think. On the other hand, well done to mother for talking to her boys about periods in a natural way

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Sanne H.
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I strongly support the idea of boys understanding the female reproduction system, but it’s a bit weird to me to let boys carry something with them that they themselves don’t need. I mean: I would be happy to share my period supplies, napkins, chewing gum, pencils etc when anyone else needs it, but sharing is not the main and only reason I carry those around.

ekaterinavalova avatar
Botox
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Tampons are handy in case of bleeding nose, no matter what gender is. And pads are just soft absorbent pads with quite some ways of using, like for blister on foot etc. So why not?

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Brandi VanSteenwyk
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This promotes respect for the opposite sex in both directions. I wish I had thought to have my son do this. No doubt, considering he was always up for a quick run to the store for me, he would have happily done so. Heroes can fly to the rescue in many ways.

heathervance avatar
AzKhaleesi
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I love this all boys should be taught compassion. I think I'm going to get my sons to do this too, how I've never thought of this is beyond me, I will say my oldest is 16 and he's so sweet, thanks to us three females (his two sisters and me) sync up that boy will go get us chocolate and / or caramel coffees that time of the month just because he knows we need it lol. Just this week he bought a box of chocolate off a girl at school just so she could win the prize (60 dollars worth) with his OWN MONEY. Good boy. I asked why and he was like because she's my friend and I'm gonna help her win...plus I'll be ready for you and sisters when next month comes. lol

vidimlic62 avatar
Mimi777
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Aww seem like you’re doing a great job raising him. He sounds like a good kid.

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AMY JANZER
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is so amazing! These young men are doing "being human" right and mom has DEFINITELY done "parenting" right. I absolutely love reading posts like this, especially after the disaster that 2020 was. I hope more parents teach their sons this.

junksmail777 avatar
John Smith
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Growing up with two woman, I was constantly faced with feminine hygiene products of all kinds. They would send me to buy them all the time, so to me it was always normal. I used to walk through the store isles with them slung over my shoulders, and when I didn’t know what to find would ask other women in the store—who were surprised by my asking. I always carry these on me when I travel with the family as now I have to daughters, and my two boys are not phased by it either. It really does not have to be a taboo.

sauveurandrew8 avatar
Drew Sauveur
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I used to carry tampons and pads. (I'm a guy), because I played rugby, and a coach said the best thing for a nosebleed was to put a tampon in your nose. I never had to use it, but I do remember a girlfriend telling me we had to go home from a bush party because she didn't have any on her and she'd started her period. I handed her a tampon....

emory_ce avatar
Carol Emory
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I carry incontinence pads in my purse when I'm out in public. Not every woman uses a tampon and some women (quite a few actually) have endometriosis where they bleed heavily during the first few days of their period. I wish the manufacturers of feminine products would realize this and make larger pads, but until then, I carry Poise Pads.

fredericeeckman avatar
frederic eeckman
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was raised by a mom who always explained everything to me in a nice and simple way, and I grew up with 2 sisters older than me so I learned very early everything about tampons, menstruations,pms and everything related to that. It was never a taboo, and I was carrying tampons and pads in my schoolbag when I was 14, since a girl in my classroom had a traumatic experience (periods + white pants and nothing to use). I guess one of the major step would be to teach early to young boys that it's a natural and normal process, and that it's nothing to be embarrassed to talk about !

rrstute avatar
Relissa Stute
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Great to teach boys about women's bodys but do they really need to go around boasting/promoting how heroic they are for carrying personal products around so they can look like some sort of heroes. Dont agree? Look at those giant grins.

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TheWeeknd
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

That is a GOOD mom thoooo. In sixth grade, my friend had gotten hers right after i got mine and i gave her a pad and she was like NOOO IM NOT EVEN SURE I HAVE IT I'LL JUST PUT TOILET PAPER lmao so yea sometimes friends don't want help?

leodomitrix avatar
Leo Domitrix
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Always carried spares, b/c you never know when someone else (or you) might need. Why? My mom. Men, please, educate yourself on how this works. We're not in control, it doesn't send a polite text message saying, "Be there in ten minutes!", and it's just part of life. Flatulence, periods, it happens, and it's all natural, okay? Bodies doing what they do. My dad had only daughters, and couldn't even be in a room if the word "period" was mentioned in context of grammar, let alone "that stuff". (His words.) Also, yes, many girls cannot deal with tampons for various reasons, so please also have pads (or napkins, as one's slang prefers) on hand. We get taxed when we buy 'em in the store, we have to buy 'em from vending machines, and in my day, school nurses did NOT have any! On behalf of cranky menopausal-type women, thank you, and peace.

shaynameidela avatar
Dorothy Parker
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Such a caring respectful thing to teach young men. Interesting that there is a clarity and openness in their faces not often seen. Well done to their mom.

jo_davies2208 avatar
Jo Davies
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Way back in the 80s I was in High School, in a hostel. There was a girl who was an only child, being raised by a single dad. "Such things" were not spoken about and she had no idea about cycles or supplies, etc. We had horrible white and orange checked cotton uniforms and one day she started during class and was very obvious. One of the hostel boys told her quietly and she burst out crying from embarrassment and wouldn't tell us why. Her champion told a few of us hostel girls to take her to the dorms get her cleaned up and sorted with supplies and talk to her. Then he told the boys in the class to grow up and stop laughing. He became all of our's hero that day.

anneflitton avatar
Xandra, The Little Hufflepuff
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was in a show this last week, and got the WORST cramps. I did not care that the guys knew I was on my period. But the guys were chill about it (no they aren't gay, but they are in theatre). They kept checking on me, one guy gave me midol, and they kept asking if I wanted a hug. (The answer was always yes.)

lassila-alexander avatar
Aragorn II Elessar
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I do that too. I’ve never had a situation come up, but in the event that it does, I’ll be ready.

kha_duong_1 avatar
K.
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

She’s a great mom. These boys were very kind and brave, which is weird and unnecessary of me to say in the first place. I’m glad their friends came around. We’re just trying to look out after one another.

rayjen0402 avatar
Jennifer Crompton
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

During college, I was over at a guy friend's apartment when my period started unexpectedly I folded up a bunch of TP for a makeshift pad and let him know I'd be back in a few minutes after a run to the store for some tampons. To my utter amazement, he pipes up "no need. I have some under the sink. I figured someone would need one sooner or later". I was so impressed that he was so open and prepared! Must have had a mom like this

jim9591 avatar
Jim Pederson
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When I was in the military I always carried Tampax and tampons when deployed to combat zones. The Tampax will slow down a bullet wound bleed out and the tampon makes great improvised bandages.

martingibbs734 avatar
martin734
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have always carried sanitary pads and tampons in my first aid kit as they make very good dressings and wound plugs as well as well as being available for their intended purpose if requested.

redinflorida avatar
_
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I like that, raising real men. In my opinion, a real man does the 3 P's; protect those that need it; profess that he is part of a family; and help provide for those he cares for. This is a fantastic example. (I got this idea from someone else, but I don't remember who. Not my original idea.)

kellyhoover avatar
Kelly Hoover
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

When I was a kid my first period happened when I was visiting my dad. Totally unprepared & embarrassed, I called my mom who talked to him. My dad took me to the store & helped me buy pads. He was very cool about it and didn't try to be funny/sarcastic, and that made all the difference to my 11 yo self. This mom is awesome!!! Those boys are going to be Great adult men someday. Very nice

skatey1979 avatar
Celeste Grant
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The friendzone doesn't exist! If you are being friends with a girl in the hope of it turning into something more that is your choice; it does not mean a women owes you more just because you're nice to her! If you are doing those nice things just to get sexual favours (or even a relationship) from a woman you are not the "nice guy" you think you are! Men and women can be friends and help each other out; it is not emasculating to do something nice for a woman! I think most women would appreciate being helped out like this in a moment of need but that should never come with conditions! If sticking a pad or a tampon in your back pack is threatening to your masculinity perhaps you aren't ready to have a mature respectful relationship with a women!

teucert avatar
Teucer T
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Do you not understand what the term "friend zone" means? It's when tbe person you're interested in "only sees you as a friend."

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skatey1979 avatar
Celeste Grant
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is just brilliant! I suffered from horrific bleeds that came on with no warning from my very first period until my hysterectomy 25 years later thanks to endometriosis. I always carried suppose including fresh underwear, and have given them away many times. My high school boyfriend used to carry them too just in case even though on a couple of occasions his male friends teased him. I taught my brother to do the same and that's actually how he met his wife! There should be no shame for anyone carrying supplies and no shame for asking either. I still have a make up purse with supplies in my handbag just in case I meet someone who is in need. Surely it's just a kindness we can all show one another!

leoh avatar
Leo H
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

So i now have to wonder..does the mom now do the same for the daughter..like take her shopping for the boy's underwear..cause penis and testicles..will the daughter carry condoms..just in case a male friend needs one

nekonekokawaii08 avatar
sylvanticx
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

i love it when men are nice about periods. i told my best camp friend about mine and he was scared it would happen during a camping trip. it was sweet.

katie-trondsen avatar
KT
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

As adults we all applaud this, but thinking as a teenager mind set i can imagine they would be made fun of by their peers, even ridiculed

ccilev_ avatar
Cécile V.
Community Member
3 years ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

GOOD! ENFIN! Thanks to the mom and her two boys. This IS education and well done. In my country France, some students are so poor they say that pads and diapers are too expensive on her budget so They don't buy them. I was mute. Couldn't believe it. Then it came on media. People from the government said we will make it free. I don't know if they did it. Anyways it should be free for all women. We were born this way! When I had little money I would make my own pads sometimes but asked for medication. So finally, tabou is almost over. Women having menstruation are still kept apart from the communities in some countries because considered as "impure". Africa... And not long ago banned from churches in South ouest villages. Old women not educated are the worst. They maintained the bad traditions and silences. How many little girls are still operated with excision ? I have no idea now..

annabdelzaher_1 avatar
Ann Abdelzaher
Community Member
2 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have an almost 13-year-old son. I have taught him all about periods and stuff but I haven't asked him to carry anything, but he has definitely learned about being empathetic about it.

patriciasloan avatar
Patricia Sloan
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I was so appalled and mad at my younger son who was in 8th grade, told me he got in trouble because he and I quote"I told the gross girl next to me to take a bath cause she was on her period and smelled like fish", I was furious with him. He's 16 now and has a longtime girlfriend who has terrible periods and he finally has sympathy and compassion that girls really can suffer. I hope he sees that poor girl he vocally fun of during class and apologizes to her.

teucert avatar
Teucer T
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I am completely amazed at the number of people in the "high school boys should carry tampons at all times so high school girls don't have to" camp.

teucert avatar
Teucer T
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Actually a great idea. When they're in their 20s they'll have to go to the store every month to get their girlfriends' supplies anyway, so they may as well get used to it early.

lisa518us avatar
Lisa Pockat Bork
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Applause to this mom and her sons! Everyone else that is that thoughtful too!

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somnomania
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

these young men are going to be the most popular in school and their jobs for the rest of their lives, good for their mom! i've bled through, it's no fun at all, and i would've adored any boy who had supplies on hand.

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Kat Hi
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sry, but HOW STUPID IS THIS??!!! Don´t we have any bigger issues, then carrying a tampon with you, in case a girls needs it???? And what are the boys raised to? Being the knight on a horse, that hands the girl in need the stuff, that she needs? Being a big hero? Like wtf. .... bying bras for the sister????!!! So she can not buy it herself??? What about privacy??!! Wtf, this is so sick. Even sicker, that so many people celebrate her. For what?! For raising the kids to a "gentleman", that hands the poor girl a tampon? When she thought she is lost? But then: HEY! I am your saviour. Sry. WTF

yesanded_1 avatar
Ed
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Wow, a woman who managed to neuter her entire family.

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Forrest McCanless
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

in high school I (male) worked for a small firm, and had gotten injured and was bleeding fairly dramatically - the owner's wife provided a pad for me so I wouldn't mess up her car as she took me to the ER. With only brothers, I had no idea just how effective they were!

johnlm1981 avatar
John Montgomery
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Why does Bored panda need to change the titles? A few days ago this referred to the kids carrying women's products or something similar. Today it talks about the taboo of menstruation.

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Dave
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Another attention seeking bullshit, creating an issue out of thin air, then "fighting for justice". This type of self-absorbed BS is sickening. Personally, I never considered this to be an issue and my mom was sending me to buy the feminine products when I was way younger than her two kids. ONe thing I can say, this type of stupid never ceases to amaze me.

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Artish Housing
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hey, I appreciate your quality stuff and I would love to read more informative posts like this one. keep sharing. los angeles artist

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Kim Lorton
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

His is the most wonderful bored panda post I’ve seen! Way to go Tara! And way to teach your young men, about young women. It makes them less of a sex object in men’s minds , and views. They will be spectacular men one day! And respectful of womankind. My husband, when we were dating, once went to the store for tampons for me, while I was visiting him. No fussing no problem for him! He grew up with one brother and his dad! Thank you, for doing what all mothers of sons should be able to do.

marymaney avatar
Mae (just add water)
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Damn that bra rack at target was so neater than tho one i have... I even saw the bra I’m wearing rn!! Lol

ubermensch avatar
uber mensch
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Good for her for starting the conversation, and particularly the sons for following up on it - I expect they're already a couple of winners that are only going to get better.

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Jason Doakes
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Cool boys, I must say, but first of all, why do Americans want a medal for being human, and is it just me or is approaching your schoolmates and telling them, hey I have tampons for you, creepy af? And to conclude, if the USA would finally do something against bullying at school instead of rewarding the pieces of sh*t with leader-positions and scholarships, and if the USA would educate their students instead of trying to fulfill a quota with shitty tests just to get the money, and if the USA would finally spend money FOR their citizens instead of against them, all these intimate discussions about bodily fluids, done by attention-hungry mothers, wouldn't even be necessary.

kkermes avatar
Kim Kermes
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I mean, nose blowing is fairly disgusting, but tissues are out in plain sight...

tsweda avatar
Thomas Sweda
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Just saying, wouldn’t it be easier if the girls just carried the period supplies at all times instead?

leoh avatar
Leo H
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's one thing to enlighten your sons about girls. It's another to emasculate them...you talk about periods being taboo..how about childhood trauma/ humilation..yep mom took us bra shopping and made us carry tampons...whats next? High heels...so the boys know what women endure

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Joe Brady
Community Member
3 years ago

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I assume their father is out of the picture

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Joe Brady
Community Member
3 years ago

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These poor boys are going to be 1) Ignored by the boys 2) Friendzoned by the girls 3) End up married to a woman who takes advantage of them

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Todd Hollfelder
Community Member
3 years ago

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I learned something new here. How can a trans guy have a hysterectomy? They aren't born having those parts and the body doesn't just grow random parts because of hormones?

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Sleazy Weaver
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Heyo, trans guy here! A lot of people get confused between a trans man & a trans woman. A trans man is born as female but identifies as male. That means he has a female reproductive system. But because he's a man, it would be insensitive to call him a trans woman. The same goes for trans women: they're born with a male reproductive system, but are referred to as female because that's what they are & it's the respectful thing to do. Basically, it's the trans part that tells you what reproductive system they have & it's the guy/girl/man/woman part that tells you what the person identifies as. Thanks for asking questions & educating yourself! I'm happy to answer anything else you might be curious about!

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Spork420
Community Member
3 years ago

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While they have good intentions, it really comes off as just creepy and strange. Mom is sure setting these poor teens up for the friendzone for sure.

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Alex King
Community Member
3 years ago

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To put it simply, this is why the world is in such a mess.

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Damon Tripodi
Community Member
3 years ago

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Wouldn't it be better if they learned CPR, carried an EpiPen, inhaler, or maybe just carried toilet paper?

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Lúthien
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would assume epi pens expire, and that youd need a prescription for epi pens, so , bad attempt at criticizing

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Jette Wang Wahnon
Community Member
3 years ago

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just a few questions....are school nurses extinct in the US ? is sexual education in schools also extinct ? and what young female having her first period would want a grubby teen-age boy handing her an equally grubby pad from his jeans pocket or back-pack ??

alexisdraskinis avatar
Alexis draskinis
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

School nurses are still around, just without enough budget to carry pads & tampons. Sexual education is still also a thing, but is still sometimes separated into genders. It also doesnt give a count down until your 1st period or any of the rest of them. Wish they did though. That would be awesome! And im pretty sure any young female would be happy to a pad, even a grubby one from a boy, vs having to plug up with a wad of toilet paper, especially if its the 1st time...

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Leo H
Community Member
3 years ago

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Why tampoons..your sons have no clue what individual girls use..what their flow may be like..nor did you inform them about toxic shock syndrome...seems ignorant for boys to be handing out tampons...seems like you left out a whole lot of info

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Viviane
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If a girl has her first period or just started it or ran out of pads or tampons, she might not be picky. I would be content with a stopgap measure.

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S. Tor Storm
Community Member
3 years ago

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she should probably teach them that they wont get periods

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Bole Perishon
Community Member
3 years ago

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Sooo, she teaches them to haul around something they'll never need on the off chance they might give it to someone who was too dumb and unaware to have their own needs taken care of. Being kind and mindful is one thing. This is just dumb.

astridborgen avatar
Lúthien
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I have a first aid kit, will probably never need it, should I get rid of it? :P

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David Retsler
Community Member
3 years ago

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They'll be well prepared for the next school shooting.

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ProfessionalTimeWaster
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

@David - To stop bleeding, you have to apply pressure so that blood clots and bleeding stops. Tampons would absorb the blood without providing much resistance. Tampons can barely absorb 10 ml. If you are bleeding from GSW....that's nothing! You bleed in drops during periods - 60 to 80 ml in 3-5 days, unlike GSW which will not only be a LOT of blood released quickly, it'd also be pressurized blood. It would become squishy within seconds. Tampons don't stand a chance in helping GSW injuries. Plus if you insert it into the wound, you are risking serious chances of infection.

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tomruns12
Community Member
3 years ago (edited)

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How long before these guys get charged with sexual harassment. EDIT: Because people jump to conclusions way too quickly and I wasnt clear in my comment. I did not mean that what they were doing was sexual harassment in any way but that some women these days are misconstruing kindness with harassment these days.

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Me
Community Member
3 years ago

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Way to wussify your sons. They'll never get any dates. Why don't you buy them purses to carry their tampons in, maybe you could get some lipstick and eye liner ,etc for their purses in case someone runs out.!! ...lol...

delphinum4 avatar
Zophra
Community Member
3 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Never thought of compassion as wussification. The ridicule kinda makes you sound like a insecure wussy yourself.

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