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Comment and Health

Menstruation isn't dirty, so let's drop terms like sanitary towels

Describing menstrual products using euphemistic language such as "feminine hygiene products" reinforces the trope that menstruation is shameful. It's time to stop, says Jen Gunter

By Jen Gunter

24 January 2024

New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

Elaine Knox

STORES sell most products intended for personal care by describing them based on their function. Toothpaste, bubble bath and toilet paper or tissue are some examples that come to mind. Based on those names, we have a good idea of their intended use.

However, there is one exception: menstrual products. If you wanted to buy tampons, pads or a menstrual cup, no one could fault you for being unable to find them in a store. This is because many use euphemisms on their signage, such as sanitary towels or napkins, or the more general “feminine hygiene products”. Of course, this…

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