Campus Engagement - Tampaction

                                                 Campus Engagement – Tampaction

     NOW presented a very informative presentation on alternative menstrual products and vaginal health. Although I feel like I am pretty well informed on the vaginal health aspect I do not know much about alternative menstrual products and never really thought much about the chemicals used on the mainstream products. Belonging to a generation brought up that these topics were taboo I am happy to experience an environment where they are not. I am a strong believer in the fact that knowledge is power and all women should be informed about issues that affect them especially their bodies.

     The presentation was done very well providing a place that everyone seemed to be relaxed and comfortable. Both Ashley’s had a strong grasp on the topics and not only could talk about the products but share personal experience. They not only explained the alternate products but had samples to show and give away. Ashley even shared reusable pads that she had made herself. They told us of the places the products could be purchased and also someone on campus we could order them through t cost.

     After going over the alternatives the discussion turned to vaginal health and how we as women can take responsibility for it. They offered at home personal cervical exam items and talked about what to look for and the cycle of the uterus and cervix.

     These types of meetings are an important part of women’s education and help women take control of their bodies. The only negative I could find in the evening was that there was so much information it had to be gone over too quickly, probably leading to questions afterwards when the information sunk in. It would be great if there could be more sessions each specializing in a specific topic so that more information could be absorbed.

     These types of information sessions are important for many, many reasons. For years the subject of women’s body just in general is not something that is talked about. This leads to the attitude about menstruation and vaginal health being a “dirty” subject. Many people come from backgrounds where none of these things are talked about and everyone is just to follow the paths already given to them. This information being presented is empowering for women and for forging a new path for future women.

     I had the unfortunate luck to having a mother who would not discuss anything pertaining my period or heaven forbid my vagina or sexual health. Most of my knowledge has come from personal experience and research. Having a safe place with people with accurate information is important and I am happy to participate. It also gives me the information to pass on to my daughter.