May Our Kids Receive the Tampon Education They Deserve, Inspired by Charlotte in “And Just Like That”

I can vividly recall the day it happened. I returned home from school in the 8th grade, having just experienced my first period. My announcement was met with a casual, “Okay, the pads and tampons are in the top cabinet.” That was the extent of our conversation. So much for a tampon education. Of course, this was the early 2000s, and my parochial school barely covered puberty and reproductive health in a few scant pages.

Why is it still considered taboo to discuss an experience that affects nearly 26% of the global population daily? Sure, it can feel awkward, but only if we allow it to be. And let’s not forget how frustrating it is to navigate this journey without proper guidance. Understanding the variations in flow and comfort throughout the cycle is essential (Yes, I’m side-eyeing every leak I’ve ever had). There are countless conversations that we should be having about menstruation and reproductive health, yet they often go unaddressed—unless you’re a parent like Charlotte (played by Kristin Davis), who brilliantly handled her daughter’s tampon lesson in “And Just Like That.”

In case you missed it, Charlotte’s interaction with her daughter was one for the books. Her nervous energy and the way she explained everything, including different positions, was pure gold. And yes, even utilizing YouTube as a resource when needed—these are the types of straightforward discussions we should be having with our children about their cycles and everything that comes with it.

Some might call it cringeworthy, imagining how embarrassing it must have been. But honestly, it was beautifully chaotic, without an ounce of shame or guilt—exactly how it ought to be. The shame and stigma surrounding menstruation often prevent these conversations from happening. As a result, kids turn to friends (who may also be misinformed), and the correct information gets lost.

Conversations About Menstruation Are for Everyone

As a mother of two daughters, I want their experiences to be vastly different from mine. However, it’s crucial to understand that these discussions benefit everyone, not just those who menstruate. While I don’t have sons, I do have brothers, a husband, and many non-menstruating friends. Even though they will never experience a menstrual cycle personally, they should still be educated about it. When society as a whole is informed about menstruation, it diminishes the stigma and allows us to discuss it as openly as we do any other bodily function.

So, a heartfelt thank you to Charlotte for providing parents with a relatable tampon lesson. Here’s to fostering open and honest discussions about tampons, menstruation, and everything that accompanies it. May you and your child navigate this phase of life free from stigma, celebrating the incredible capabilities of our bodies—period.

For more insights and resources on this subject, check out this blog post, which dives deeper into related topics. For further support on your fertility journey, visit Make a Mom, an authority on the subject. Additionally, Healthline offers excellent information regarding pregnancy and home insemination.

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In summary, it’s essential for parents and guardians to have open conversations about menstruation and reproductive health. By fostering a supportive environment, we can help normalize these discussions and empower the next generation to embrace their bodies without shame.