When you’re 13, searching for period supplies in a drugstore can feel like embarking on a treasure hunt. You haven’t yet mastered the labyrinth that is the feminine hygiene aisle, which is often a mystery of its own. Sometimes the products are located near diapers (seriously, why?), and other times they’re near soaps. Why can’t these stores just label their aisles with something straightforward like “TAMPONS” or “STUFF FOR YOUR VAGINA”? Life would be so much simpler.
Recently, a mom named Jenna Turner shared a wildly entertaining text exchange with her 13-year-old daughter as they attempted to locate some pads. This exchange quickly gained popularity online for its relatable humor.
“THIS was the highlight of my parenting week,” Jenna said. “I sent my daughter into the store for (whispers) ‘feminine hygiene products,’ and the following text conversation ensued. I laughed, she gave me life, and then I laughed some more. Plus, she even whipped up a drawing on her phone to emphasize her point!”
Let’s break down this epic exchange.
Part I: Shock
“THEY’RE NOT HERRREEEEE!” We totally get it. It’s a universal truth that these products are always hidden away. They might as well be called “the products that shall not be named.”
Part II: Frustration
“I SEE NONE,” she complains. “I swear they exist!” replies the mom. “Look near the diapers.” Hilariously, why on earth are tampons situated by diapers? It’s a mystery!
Part III: Discovery
“OH WAIT. They’re tucked away in a corner, unmarked.” Success! “They labeled a tiny shelf of knee braces but not the huge section of products for your vagina?????” This young girl is already uncovering the secrets of the world—vaginas are often considered taboo unless we’re telling women what to do with them, but that’s another story for another time.
“VAGINAS ARE MYTHS, WHISPERED QUIETLY AMONG THE BRAVEST OF MEN WHO DARE TO SPEAK THEIR NAME.” This quote from a 13-year-old has made her our new hero.
Part IV: Insight
“BUT SERIOUSLY, WHY ARE MEN SO AFRAID OF WOMEN AND THEIR VAGINAS?” the insightful teen asks. “DO THEY THINK IF THEY ACKNOWLEDGE THEIR EXISTENCE WE’LL SHOOT LASER ESTROGEN BEAMS AT THEM AND DISINTEGRATE THEM?” If only!
Part V: Level Up
We propose that all stores rename their “feminine hygiene product” aisle to “THE VAGINA ZONE.” Can someone please make that happen?
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In summary, Jenna’s text exchange with her daughter showcases the hilarity and absurdity of finding period supplies, while also touching on larger themes of societal taboos around feminine health.