Guest post by Michael Yazujian — Marymount Manhattan College
Photo by Caitlin Weigel (used with permission)
Caitlin Weigel knits and sells tampon cozies on her Etsy site, a website where people can sell crafts that they make. These cozies are perfect for women who are trying to avoid humiliation who are also fans of squids (and probably other tampon users as well). They may reinforce the shame and embarrassment that some women associate with tampons by concealing them, but they do so in a playful way that suggests the taboo be taken less seriously. The squids seem to be mocking society’s belief in tampon awkwardness with their googly eyes and promote a sort of tampon pride that you could show off to your friends. The reduction of shame through humor is not a new concept, but I believe that Caitlin Weigel has knit a useful weapon against the uncomfortable and serious manner in which tampons are viewed.
Editor’s note: See also Vinnie’s Tampon Case
I’ve always been perplexed by the notion that women need to be discrete when carrying a tampon to the bathroom or when purchasing them. Menstruation is a natural function. At the same time, I wouldn’t try to shame someone who was carrying one of these cozies. Rather, I’d like to work to change the culture of embarassment around this issue.
I’m with you Maggy. But I like what Michael says about the squid motif “mocking society’s belief in tampon awkwardness.” Who wouldn’t laugh if one of these cuties landed on the floor of a classroom or washroom? A first step in changing the culture of embarrassment around the issue, perhaps. And the practicality of keeping tampons tidily composed in a handbag or backpack can’t be beat. I suggest the etsy artist knit something similar for Diva Cup and Keeper users that’s just as nifty. Perhaps an octopus?