Historical development of feminine hygiene products

Menstruation is still considered taboo in many societies. However, women have been in their menstrual period since the beginning of history. This is the normal menstrual cycle; Unless talked about, women also distance themselves from their bodies. A healthy period means a healthy woman, her healthy babies, and ultimately a healthy community. In this article, we will talk about the hygiene products that women have used throughout history, and we will try to break the taboos related to menstruation.

Feminine hygiene products were first mentioned in ancient Egyptian medical records. At that time, these products were made from papyrus, which was also used to make paper.

Another person speaking on this issue is M.Ö. Hippocrates was the fifth century Greek physician and the father of Western medicine. In Greece, women would wrap the hair around a piece of wood and use it as insulation. In Japan, women often use paper to absorb blood. On the other hand, Native Americans used buffalo skin and moss during their menstrual periods.

Disposable products first appeared in the nineteenth century.

In the Victorian era, women preferred rags as pillowcases. These “rags” can be washed and used over and over again. It is usually made at home from flannel or woven fabric. In the same period, research was carried out on the unhealthiness of rags and the growth of bacteria. Thus, the first disposable products appeared.

Sanitary aprons

Sanitary gowns were invented to keep the vaginal area clean and odor-free. This piece looked like an ordinary apron, but inside there was a piece of cloth flowing between the legs. Women used it to protect their seats and clothes from bloodstains. However, it was not a good choice as it smelled bad and made you sweat.

Leicester Towels

first commercial dressings; It’s produced by Johnson & Johnson, the umbrella brand for brands like Listerine, Neutrogena, and Le Petit Marseillais. These pads were known as “female pads”. It was made of gauze and cotton, and it was also disposable. So it was healthier than other alternatives. These handkerchiefs were held in place by a kind of string tied to the waist. Hygiene products were improving, but many of these products never made it to the market or were successful, as menstruation was still considered taboo. Many women do not want to be seen buying these. This is why they usually order menstrual products by mail, but these products were also very expensive.

Kotex, one of the most popular pad brands, was founded in 1920. Just a year later, Kotex sanitary pads were a huge hit in the market.

Aware of this success, Johnson & Johnson changed the brand of Lister’s Towels to Nupak. Although sanitary pads have been a huge hit in the market, menstruation is still a taboo. Women wanted to hide their periods. Moreover, the first modern bumper was invented in 1931. But the old bumpers were leaking, and they were also difficult to install. With the help of a friend, Earl Haas was able to produce a tampon with an applicator that allowed the product to be inserted into the vagina without touching it. The popularity of these products also increased with the invention of Haas.

menstrual cups

American actress Leona Chalmers produced the first commercial menstrual cup in 1937. These containers were made of vulcanized rubber and were specially designed. At that time her name was Taset. Despite many advertisements to promote the product, women preferred to use tampons and sanitary pads more. Menstrual cups have become popular in the 21st century.

Disposable pads and tampons still dominate the market, but many are now turning to reusable items like menstrual cups and menstrual underwear.

People are beginning to realize that the products they buy are harmful to the environment and health. In addition, menstrual cups, menstrual panties, organic pads and tampons can be easily found in our country.

Culturally and socially, periods have been talked about with shame for centuries. Thanks to the rapidly growing social media platforms, the taboo on menstruation has now been lifted. Now we are talking about these regular courses more comfortably. Initially, these products were produced to hide menstrual periods. Now, health and comfort are the most important criteria.