Dealing with menstruation in public can be difficult, especially for young girls who are only eight years old and have to manage their periods while at school.
Period shame is not an inevitable experience for children
Is organic cotton really safer than synthetic for tampons? Here’s what the science says
In this article, we will explore the question of whether organic cotton is truly safer than synthetic materials when it comes to tampons. Many people believe that organic tampons, which are made from 100 percent cotton, are a healthier and more natural option. However, experts caution against assuming that organic tampons are completely free from chemicals.
The marketing of organic tampons as “safer” is primarily based on the fact that they are made from 100 percent cotton. Cotton is a natural material and is often associated with cleanliness and purity. However, it is essential to understand that even organic cotton can contain traces of chemicals.
Experts argue that the term “organic” does not necessarily mean that a product is completely free from chemicals. Organic cotton may still be treated with pesticides during the growing process. Additionally, the manufacturing and processing of tampons involve various stages that may introduce chemicals into the final product.
It is crucial to consider the scientific evidence when evaluating the safety of tampons. Research studies have shown that both organic and synthetic tampons can contain trace amounts of potentially harmful substances. These substances can include dioxins, pesticides, and synthetic fibers.
While the levels of these substances are generally low and within safe limits, it is important to be aware of their presence. Regulatory bodies, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), have established guidelines and standards to ensure the safety of tampons. However, it is always advisable to make informed choices and consider individual preferences and sensitivities.
In conclusion, the belief that organic cotton tampons are inherently safer than synthetic alternatives may not be entirely accurate. Both types of tampons can contain trace amounts of chemicals, and it is essential to consider the scientific evidence and regulatory standards when making choices. For more information on this topic, please don’t forget to follow us on social media at https://www.instagram.com/60time.com or Facebook @60time.com.
As children get older, they may face similar issues regarding menstruation. A recent survey conducted in Australia in 2022, which included 410 university students who menstruate, revealed that only 16.2% of them felt completely confident in managing their periods while at university. Additionally, slightly over half of the participants believed that society considered periods to be a taboo subject, making it something that is not openly discussed.
However, it is important to note that the stigma surrounding periods is not unavoidable. There are education programs in other countries that not only acknowledge periods but also celebrate them, making them accessible to individuals of all ages.
For instance, there is a program in Sweden that provides young people with valuable information about menstruation. It includes stories about first periods and offers advice on how adults can have conversations about menstruation with children. Similarly, in the United Kingdom, there are initiatives to introduce a “period positive” curriculum for school students.
What is taught in Australian schools?
In Australian schools, the curriculum covers a wide range of subjects and topics. Students are taught various subjects such as English, mathematics, science, history, geography, and physical education. The aim is to provide a well-rounded education that equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills for their future.
English is a core subject in Australian schools, where students learn to read, write, and communicate effectively. They study grammar, vocabulary, and literature to develop their language skills. Mathematics is another important subject, where students learn concepts such as numbers, algebra, geometry, and statistics.
Science education in Australian schools focuses on developing scientific literacy and critical thinking skills. Students learn about the different branches of science, conduct experiments, and explore scientific concepts. They also learn about the environment, sustainability, and the impact of human activities on the planet.
History and geography are taught to help students understand the world around them. They learn about Australian history, including Indigenous history, as well as world history. Geography lessons cover topics such as landforms, climate, population, and urbanization.
Physical education is an essential part of the curriculum, promoting physical fitness and overall well-being. Students participate in various sports and activities, learning about teamwork, sportsmanship, and the importance of a healthy lifestyle.
In addition to these core subjects, Australian schools also offer a range of elective subjects. These can include subjects like art, music, drama, languages, and technology. Students have the opportunity to explore their interests and develop their talents in these areas.
Overall, Australian schools aim to provide a comprehensive education that prepares students for the challenges of the modern world. By covering a wide range of subjects and topics, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their future endeavors.
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Our research
In Australia, we conducted interviews with 15 staff members from government, Catholic, and private primary schools to gather information about children who experience early onset menstruation. We aimed to understand the staff’s awareness of this issue, how students are educated about periods, and the available support for them.
During the interviews, staff members expressed that students who menstruate early often feel isolated. They emphasized the need for earlier and more matter-of-fact menstruation education. One teacher stated:
“I believe we should start educating students in Years 3 and 4, being more specific than we currently are. The age at which girls start menstruating is getting younger, so we need to address this topic earlier.”
However, some participants expressed concerns about discussing periods with young students. One teacher explained:
“We don’t want to scare young girls, especially those who are seven or eight years old. If menstruation is starting earlier, we should talk about it earlier. But it’s a challenging situation because many girls aren’t mature enough to fully understand.”
Another teacher mentioned that discussing periods in Year 3 might be too overwhelming for some children, as it could potentially traumatize them.
Restricting knowledge and awareness about periods from younger children poses multiple problems. Firstly, it deprives children of essential information about their bodies. Secondly, it perpetuates the idea that menstruation is inappropriate, scary, or vulgar. This, in turn, reinforces stigma and taboos surrounding periods.
In primary school, children are not formally educated about puberty until they reach Years 5 and 6. This information was reported by ABC News, specifically Brant Cumming.
Should we educate boys about children getting periods?
When it comes to discussing menstruation, it is important to consider whether or not we should include boys in the conversation.
