In this GUEST BLOG, Ferna Jalink talks about her fascinating initiative, Fentalks. A valuable idea that provides mothers and daughters with the tools to discuss everything surrounding upcoming menstruation together.
Let’s talk periods!
Periods, menstruation, and cycles. These are words we don't often say out loud. When it comes to discussing menstruation, there's still a lot of progress to be made. So… let's talk periods! In this blog, 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 pouch with sanitary pads, tampons, and an information booklet for teenagers about menstruation. I thought it was wonderful! My daughters were ten and eight at the time, and the first conversation about menstruation was getting closer. Although I’m open to discussing anything, I was still looking for the best moment. 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 found that Scottish pouch so great because it made the moment of that first conversation special. I also liked that I could 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 my surroundings, I gathered that I wasn't the only one with these questions. Because even though half of the world's population experiences menstruation for a large part of their lives, the conversation about it is still not commonplace.
Period Talk
The Scottish kit gave me the drive to develop a Dutch-language edition. I started working on it quietly after that memorable holiday and then gathered a team around me. In the meantime, the Fentalks website is live, including a webshop. There, we sell various editions of Period Talk, a menstruation box for girls aged nine and up. The box consists of an information booklet (the Period Pocket) and a fabric pouch with a cool print where you can put your menstrual products. In addition, Period Talk includes discussion cards, conversation tips for mothers (or fathers/caregivers), and a teabag with a delicious chocolate. This makes the first conversation even more enjoyable.
Let’s talk!
I think it's a positive development that there's increasing attention for this topic nowadays, especially with all the developments surrounding (the fight against) period poverty. With Fentalks, I'm happy to contribute to education and knowledge dissemination. Sustainability is an important aspect for me in this, and fortunately, that applies to more and more people. Think of safe products without toxins, but also the waste involved. I wholeheartedly encourage the use of menstrual cups, reusable pads, and period panties! It's great that women can choose what they feel comfortable with. Let's talk, share our concerns and tips, and ensure that the cycle moves from discomfort to strength!
Ferna Jalink (co-founder Fentalks)
Are you still looking for great menstrual products that are also good for the environment? Then check out our shop.
