Not every day you hear a man say he’d walk into a store and pick up a pack of sanitary pads for his partner. For some men, it’s one of those awkward, uncomfortable moments they’d rather avoid. But really, should it be that big of a deal?
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Times are changing, and with it, so are perspectives. Guardian Life asked young women to share their thoughts on the topic, and their answers might just surprise you.
“It shouldn’t be a taboo” – Favour, 24
“Why not? A man should take care of his woman’s needs, even in the small things. I’m not saying the man has to do everything, but it is considered an act of service.”
READ ALSO: India withdraws controversial tax on sanitary pads
“I wouldn’t mind” – Adebola, 26
“Personally, I appreciate when my partner is supportive of my needs, including purchasing sanitary products like pads. It can be seen as a thoughtful gesture that shows care and understanding of a woman’s health and comfort. Such actions foster a sense of partnership and equality in my relationship.”
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“If it’s part of a gift” – Mercy, 23
“It doesn’t seem like a weird or bad idea, actually. If it’s part of a gift package or something he needs to buy when a sudden monthly visit comes, no problem. I don’t think it’s weird. I don’t think my monthly visit should be a weird topic or discussion with my man in the first place.”
READ ALSO: India withdraws controversial tax on sanitary pads
“It’s an act of care, not shame” – Titi, 29
“My boyfriend was hesitant at first, but after a while, he started seeing it differently. I mean, it’s not like he’s the one using it! It’s just a normal part of life. Now, when I’m too busy or caught up, he even offers to get it without me asking. I see it as a small act of care, like when I help him get his favourite shaving cream.”
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“It’s a thoughtful and supportive gesture” – Nike, 23
“Yes. As a woman, a sanitary pad is a necessity because a woman’s monthly flow is a normal biological process. If I can allow my man to buy food for me, why should I feel uncomfortable if he buys me a sanitary towel? I think it’s a thoughtful and supportive gesture.”
“I just don’t think it’s necessary” – Ada, 30
“Honestly, I don’t think it’s a big deal if a guy doesn’t want to buy pads. Some men feel really uncomfortable about it, and that’s okay. I can always get it myself. To me, there are other ways to show care and support. If he’s there for me in bigger ways, I won’t stress over something this small.”
“Nobody should buy me pad o!” – Itoro, 28
“There are other gifts that my man can buy for me like cars, necklaces, new phones, many things like that. He shouldn’t buy me pad.”
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So, why the fuss?
At the end of the day, buying sanitary pads for your partner is a personal choice. Some women appreciate the gesture as a sign of care, while others don’t think it’s necessary. It’s not about the pads themselves—it’s about supporting your partner in a way that makes both of you feel comfortable
