There seems to be an unspoken rule in many societal circles that menstruation is not a comfortable or acceptable topic of discussion. However, the fact is that menstruation is a normal and healthy part of life for women. Though a monthly cycle is an expected event, it still has the power to be disruptive to a woman’s life, especially if it catches her by surprise. This discomfort could be eased through the simplicity of having feminine hygiene products, which are essential in every woman’s life, available in public spaces both around and outside of DU.
On the DU campus, female restrooms have dispensers available in the effort to provide feminine products; however, these dispensers never seem to actually contain any products. While this may not seem like a large issue worth time and consideration, it is actually a prevalent problem of equality. Though men don’t have to plan or worry about menstruation, since it is a reality of biology, this issue is still relevant as a way of supporting female colleagues. By the time women reach college, whether as a student or as faculty, they are probably adjusted to dealing with and being prepared for their period. Usually it requires some deliberate planning and maybe some pain medication, but it doesn’t otherwise interfere with school or work. However, the off-chance of being surprised in the middle of the day or of forgetting to pack extra products is immediately a source of stress and discomfort that can easily lead to a lack of focus or even the inability to be present in class or at work.
When a Wisconsin lawmaker Melissa Sargent proposed a bill that would require state-run building to provide free feminine products in bathrooms, objections arose around the cost and hygiene safety. Though these are logical concerns, feminine products are equally as important in restrooms as other paper products, and they don’t expire as long as they are stored correctly and the packaging is intact. Plus, if condoms can be provided as an encouragement of safe sex with full dispensaries in many male restrooms at DU, then feminine products should readily fit into a similar realm of public health considerations.
Though people may not enjoy talking about it, menstruation is a part of life. Ensuring that feminine products are available in public restrooms would be an easy adjustment and form of support for women at DU. With easy access to feminine products, the possibility of a woman’s natural, monthly cycle negatively affecting her professional schooling and work would decrease; a simple change, but a significant step in equality.
