In this GUEST BLOG, Ferna Jalink talks about her fascinating initiative, Fentalks. A valuable idea that gives mothers and daughters the tools to discuss everything related to the upcoming period.
Let's talk periods!
Period, menstruation, and cycle. These are words we don't often say out loud. When it comes to discussing periods, there's still a lot to be gained. So... let's talk periods! In this blog post, I'll take you through the story behind Fentalks.
Inspiration from Scotland
About eight years ago, I was in Scotland. There, in a drugstore, I saw a small pencil case containing sanitary pads, tampons, and an information booklet for teenagers about periods. I loved it! My daughters were ten and eight at the time, and the first conversation about periods was getting closer. Even though I'm open to discussing anything, I was still searching for the best time. How old should my daughters be? What's a good time of day? Where do you start? And what's the most important thing to tell them?
I loved that Scottish pencil case because it made that first conversation so special. I also loved being able to give my daughters something tangible to read and look at. Unfortunately, the booklet was written in English, and they didn't speak it yet. From those around me, I understood I wasn't the only one with questions. Because even though half the world's population has periods for a significant portion of their lives, talking about them still isn't something we do every day.
Period Talk
The Scottish package gave me the drive to develop a Dutch edition. I started working on it quietly after that fateful holiday and then gathered a team around me. The Fentalks website is now live, including an online store . There, we sell various editions of Period Talk, a period kit for girls aged nine and up. The box consists of an information booklet (the Period Pocket) and a fabric bag with a fun print to store your period products. Period Talk also includes statement cards, conversation tips for mothers (or fathers/caregivers), and a tea bag with a delicious chocolate. That way, the first conversation becomes even more fun.
Let's talk!
I think it's wonderful that there's increasing attention to this topic these days, especially with all the developments surrounding (the fight against) period poverty. With Fentalks, I'm happy to contribute to educating and spreading knowledge. Sustainability is a key aspect for me, and thankfully, it is for more and more people. Think of safe, toxin-free products, but also the waste that comes with them. I wholeheartedly support the use of menstrual cups, reusable sanitary pads, and period panties! It's wonderful that women can choose what they feel comfortable with. Let's talk, share our concerns and tips, and ensure the cycle goes from discomfort to strength!
Ferna Jalink (co-founder Fentalks)
Are you still looking for comfortable menstrual products that are also good for the environment? Then take a look at our shop.
