Field dressing

DETAILS

Accession numberRMG-2580MakerJohnson & Johnson Pty LtdPlace madeSydney, AustraliaMeasurementsH80 x W100 x D100mmHistoryAdvances in menstrual hygiene technologies have had significant impacts on women’s health, work and personal freedom. For much of history, menstruating women have been excluded from work, education and social situations during their period. In some countries, girls are unable to attend school while menstruating due to lack of sanitation and access to sanitary products. For centuries, simple homemade cotton rags were used but bacteria on these reusable items was a problem. Major breakthroughs were made during the First World War. Battlefield nurses noticed that cellulose wadding used for field dressings absorbed blood more efficiently than cotton. This discovery lead to the first mass-marketed sanitary napkin by Kotex in 1921. These disposable pads were worn attached to a belt using hooks or safety pins. When women returned to the factories in the Second World War, they were encouraged to use these new products and continue to work during their monthly periods. However, female pilots were not encouraged to work during their periods for fear of emotional instability during this time!

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ExhibitionIt's personal

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CollectionHeritage Collection

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Field dressing