The power of period conversations: Building a culture of openness in adventure
This blog is written by Sabrina Reinke, founder of POM period products.
For many young people, a DofE expedition is the first time they’ve camped overnight, led a team through unfamiliar terrain, or cooked a meal on a tiny stove by torchlight. It’s a place where friendships deepen, confidence grows, and conversations, often unexpected ones, happen.
One of the most meaningful and powerful conversations we can normalise is periods.
International Women’s Day is the perfect moment to reflect on and discuss such an important topic. Not just about comfort or preparedness, but for something much bigger: empathy, equality, and inclusion.
Why talking about periods matters on expedition
Periods are a normal part of life for millions of people, yet they’re still surrounded by awkwardness and stigma. When they aren’t openly discussed, it can make some participants feel isolated, embarrassed, or worried about asking for what they need.
But when teams normalise talking about menstruation in the same way they talk about packing layers or treating blisters, they send a powerful message: It’s normal, you’re supported, and you deserve to feel comfortable and confident.
A simple, “Does anyone need a loo stop?” or “Let’s factor in extra breaks in case anyone’s on their period,” can open the door to a culture where young women feel seen and supported, rather than self-conscious.
Openness builds stronger teams
At its heart, the DofE experience is about teamwork: relying on one another, celebrating each other’s strengths, and learning to communicate openly. Talking about periods isn’t just a practical consideration; it’s a team-building exercise.
When we acknowledge a normal bodily function without judgement, the whole group becomes more empathetic. Participants, too, often find that once one person speaks up, “Hey, I’m on my period, so I might be slower this morning”, it gives someone else permission to do the same.
Choice, confidence, and sustainable options
Normalising period conversations also means normalising choice. Whether someone prefers pads, tampons, period underwear, or menstrual cups, understanding their options helps them feel prepared and confident outdoors.
Sustainable brands like POM, support this shift by offering comfortable, planet-friendly options for young people looking for alternatives that help them feel secure on the move.
It’s not about promoting one product over another. It’s about giving young people the knowledge and freedom to choose what works best for them.
Inclusion starts with everyday moments
Talking openly about periods isn’t just about practicality; it’s about equality.
When period conversations become normal, inclusion becomes normal too. Young women feel seen rather than self-conscious, and expedition teams grow stronger through empathy and understanding.
This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the young people who are breaking stigma simply by speaking openly, and the leaders and parents who help create spaces where everyone can thrive on expeditions and beyond.
