Exploring Menstrual T.V. Advertisements: Unravelling media’s role in Perpetuating Women Victimization

Abstract

Menstruation; is a unique and natural phenomenon, whereby a woman undergoes for a major part of her life, which is almost forty years. However, this crucial process is always understated through different mechanisms of society; be it the patriarchal system of society, the women themselves, the culture of a particular community, or the media that paints the majority of perceptions about societal events. Media through menstrual advertisements had played a significant role in the representation of women. Lack of awareness; embarrassment; secrecy; and stigmatization, all illustrate a grim and depressing picture of women’s lives, and the media further aggravates their victimization. Menstrual Advertisements reflect the taboos by reinforcing the belief that menstruation (which is a natural and biological feature of women’s lives) creates a lot of difficulties in their normal routine and livelihood culture, often encouraging menstrual concealment. The present article attempts to analyze the changing connotations and victimized depiction of women through these commercials. Also, it examines whether these advertisements are just commercializing and promoting specific brands, or bringing awareness among people regarding menstruation, and its broader implications on diversity and inclusion. The findings aim to elaborate on the media's impact in shaping society's beliefs and perceptions regarding menstruation.