Serena Slams Mother Nature
9.30.2009 | Blog, Menstruation
In a recent New York Times piece about Serena Williams’ endorsement deals, the deal that got the most ink was for Tampax, the Procter & Gamble tampon brand. It seems Serena is the first non-Olympian, and first certified mega-star, to sign on to endorse a ‘feminine care’ product.
I can imagine that of all the products stars are asked to endorse – shoes, watches, cars – tampons are not high on the list of enviable deals. So I am impressed that Serena has aligned herself with Tampax, especially considering that in 1995 the Women’s Tennis Association turned down a $10 Million offer by Tampax because of fears of becoming a laughing stock.
I think this story is hopeful, and it’s not because I think athletes should be getting paid millions of dollars to pose next to shoes, watches, cars, or tampons. But I do think that we may be moving away from the notion that our periods are something to be embarrassed about.
Considering half of the world’s population experiences menstruation on a monthly basis for half of their lifetimes, why is it still awkward to talk about?
Good on you, Serena! You can “set” an example that will “serve” us all well.
(sorry, you can groan now…)
What do you think?
9.30.2009
I’ve never (ever. EVER.) celebrated my period for a reason other than non-pregnancy. And quite honestly, while I completely love your site and all its content, I didn’t anticipate getting terribly excited after reading the posts focused on Aunt Flo.
Alas, this is why you’re the expert and I’m the reader! I have so enjoyed all of the posts so far, and I want to thank you for broadening my horizons on several fronts! I can honestly say I’m kind of…looking forward…to getting my period this month.
Thank you for dedicating so much space to this topic, and please thank all of your guest posters for sharing such intimate, courageous, practical and sisterly words. They’ve all made a profound impact on me as a woman and, God-willing, as a mother someday!
9.30.2009
LOVE this! Hilarious and lovely that you keep finding such awesome content on this topic.
10.01.2009
somewhere along my journey as a woman, I began to think positively about my period. I totally embrace what my friend terms the cleansing, in fact, I anticipate it, I look forward to it. It is a sign that my body is functioning normally. Even now, as I am learning how these cycles will change … already are changing … as I approach menopause, I still love the ebb and flow.
I think the positive energy surrounds me and creates good healthy perspectives … from me, from my daughters, my husband and my sons.
10.05.2009
Oh the sweet irony. I posted above that I was looking forward to my next period and just found out that I’m pregnant! Hah! Well, I’m still rejoicing in womanhood, just sans the monthly rite.