Periods, a subject long kept silent
For decades, the rules were simply not mentioned in TV series and movies.
This silence has contributed to reinforcing the taboo surrounding menstruation , leaving generations of viewers with the impression that this natural phenomenon should remain hidden, or even shameful.
But things are changing. Content creators are increasingly daring to address this topic head-on. Menstruation is becoming a storytelling opportunity, a source of comedy, or even a dramatic trigger. So, is this genuine progress or simply a case of jumping on a trend?
1. The rules on screen: a historical invisibility
Radio silence in Hollywood and elsewhere
For a long time, rule number one was… not to talk about the rules.
In the 1950s to 1980s, even advertisements for sanitary products used a blue liquid so as not to “shock” the public.
The screenwriters carefully avoided mentioning their heroines' menstruation, preferring ellipses. This invisibility contributed to reinforcing the sense of taboo , giving the impression that this otherwise universal phenomenon was unworthy of being shown.
When the first scenes appear
The 1970s and 80s marked a tentative turning point. One of the most striking examples remains Carrie (1976) , where the opening scene shows the young girl having her first period in the shower. But the chosen angle is that of horror, associating menstruation with shame and nightmare.
It wasn't until the 1990s and 2000s that some more neutral references appeared, but they were still very marginal.
2. Persistent clichés surrounding menstruation
Even when menstruation is depicted, it is often done in a caricatured way.
The “hysterical” woman
A persistent stereotype still associates menstruation with extreme mood swings , outbursts of anger, or uncontrollable tears.
How many times in a series or film have we heard a character say:
“You must be on your period…”
To justify emotional behavior?
This shortcut perpetuates the idea that women are irrational during this period, instead of showing that each cycle is experienced differently.
The “awkward” comic scene
Another common cliché: the stain on the white pants or the leaking protection , often used as a humorous device.
While these situations exist in real life, they are rarely experienced as funny by those directly involved.
The risk: reducing menstruation to a mere source of shame or joke.
3. Recent progress: towards greater realism
Series that dare
In recent years, several series have changed the game.
They address the rules realistically, naturally, and pedagogically , helping to break the taboo:
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Big Mouth (Netflix): tackles puberty, first periods, and hormones head-on.
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Sex Education : shows open dialogues between teens about menstruation and body acceptance.
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Orange Is the New Black : addresses menstrual insecurity in prison, a rarely discussed topic.
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I May Destroy You : includes an intimate sex scene with menstruation, without voyeurism.
These representations allow spectators to recognize themselves and understand that the rules are neither dirty nor shameful.
Films that change your perspective
Some feature films also contribute to the democratization of the subject:
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Pixar's Turning Red : a metaphor for first rules through transformation into a red panda, with a tender and educational approach.
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Period. End of Sentence. : Oscar-winning documentary about the stigma surrounding menstruation in India and access to menstrual products.
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Lady Bird : includes realistic discussions between friends about the cycle.
These examples show that cinema can play a role in menstrual education by addressing the subject with kindness.
4. Why it's important to show menstruation
Breaking the taboo
Every time a series or film shows a period-related scene without judgment, it helps to normalize the subject.
This helps young people (and older people) to understand that this phenomenon is natural and universal.
Combating period poverty
By highlighting the difficulties in accessing protections, audiovisual works raise public awareness of a major social issue.
This could even inspire concrete changes, such as making protective equipment available free of charge in certain public places.
Create better menstrual education
An audience exposed to realistic representations learns to better understand their body and to talk about it.
This helps to reduce intergenerational taboos and complexes.
To go further , discover our selection of reusable menstrual panties , a modern, comfortable and ecological alternative to disposable products.
5. What still needs improvement
Heroines who are still too “perfect”
Despite progress, many female TV series heroines seem never to get their periods .
They live extreme adventures without it ever being mentioned, which can reinforce a feeling of invisibility.
Inclusive representation
There is still a long way to go to include:
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Trans and non-binary people who menstruate.
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Women with disabilities.
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The different cultural and religious realities related to menstruation.
Show all the emotions
Periods are not just about pain or shame. They can be experienced as a time for reconnecting with the body , slowing down, or even celebrating.
Fiction could show this dimension more clearly.
6. Towards a future without taboos?
The trend seems clear: menstruation is increasingly appearing in stories.
The screenwriters dare to break the unspoken, sometimes making them key elements of the plot, and give the characters a voice so they can talk about it without embarrassment.
This paves the way for a major cultural shift , where periods are no longer a source of shame, but a normal part of life.
From darkness to light
Periods in TV series and movies are no longer invisible, and that's good news.
Certainly, there are still clichés to deconstruct and representations to diversify, but the progress made in a few years is encouraging.
Each realistic scene helps to free up speech and offer new generations a healthier view of their bodies.
And if you too want to experience your cycle without constraints or embarrassment, discover our reusable, comfortable, and eco-friendly period panties , perfect for transforming your period into an ally rather than a burden.