WMC FBomb

An Answer to those Stupid Tampon Ads

Why are tampon ads constantly stupid? It's embarrassing how advertisers think that because periods are a "girl" problem that we must want to see "girly" ads. So what does this translate to? Girls behaving stupidly and in a way that has nothing to do with their periods.

Example 1

Now, I understand loving being a woman and all that - I'm not ashamed of my period - but to be perfectly honest it does not make me want to dance and sing. Ever. But, gee, isn't this what girls do when they're happy? They jump around in flippy dresses with big goofy smiles on their faces! I'm actually surprised there isn't a field of daisies in the background.

Example 2

Well, thank god our periods aren't getting in the way of serious business, like wearing bikinis and LYING THERE. Heaven forbid we might have to wear a one piece...and lie there. Plus, "Mother Nature" scares me. While it is interesting that the period is framed as a "gift" rather than a "curse" it's definitely sarcastic, so anything positive about this commercial ends there. Plus, I just cringe thinking about that gift coming out of me every month...I don't care if it is a euphemism, when they actualize it...lord have mercy that's a pointy freaking box.

But there is hope for tampon commercials. I recently saw this Kotex ad:

Maybe Kotex was just trying to tap into their sarcastic teen market...but it worked for me. At least there's one less ridiculous tampon ad out there!



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Julie Zeilinger
Founding Editor of The WMC FBomb
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