How we dealt with menstruation in the past

Coping with menstruation has changed dramatically throughout history, from home remedies to modern, safe, and comfortable products. Not only have the means to manage menstrual bleeding changed, but so have the social norms, stigma, and empowerment of women related to menstruation.

History and ingenuity of women

Before the advent of commercial menstrual products, women used homemade solutions such as cloth, wool, paper, or even moss, which they cleaned and reused. In times of war and social change, women were expected to continue working during their periods, requiring even more ingenuity and resilience despite common taboos.

First commercial products

The 20th century saw a major breakthrough with the development of the first disposable products, including tampons and pads. The first patented tampon, the "Tampax," appeared in the 1930s, giving women the first internal way to manage their periods. They also brought increased attention to hygiene and product safety.

Social change and feminism

Since the 1960s, the increased acceptance of tampons and menstrual cups has been linked to the women's rights movement. Social taboos have begun to loosen, and women have been freed from traditional restrictions — menstrual care has become a more open topic, with innovations such as pads with wings for better protection.

Modern menstruation

Today, there are a variety of products available—organic tampons, pads, menstrual cups, biodegradable solutions, and pain relief products. Society is becoming more open about talking about menstruation, although traces of stigma and shame still remain in some settings; 42 percent of women have experienced shame about their periods.

Conclusion

The history of dealing with menstruation is a story of women's ingenuity, development, and social progress. From home remedies to modern organic choices, constant innovation and breaking taboos are paving the way for greater openness and accessibility for all women.