The Story of Menstruation (1946)
In the National Film Registry
•
10m
Educational film explores menstruation, its biology and social stigmas, breaking taboos in 1946.
Walt Disney's 1946 film The Story of Menstruation takes an unconventional approach to health education. Commissioned by a feminine hygiene company, the film aimed to educate young girls about menstruation in a climate of social stigma.
The Story of Menstruation departs from traditional educational films of the era. Instead of dry lectures or live-action demonstrations, the film utilizes animation – a technique more commonly associated with entertainment. Disney's signature cartoon characters are absent, replaced by a more instructional, yet whimsical, visual style.
The film's content itself is groundbreaking. At a time when menstruation was rarely discussed openly, The Story of Menstruation presented factual information about the biological process in a clear and non-judgmental manner. This frank approach paved the way for future educational films to tackle sensitive topics in a more open and informative way.
Despite its progressive message, The Story of Menstruation reflects the social norms of its time. The film avoids any mention of sex or reproduction, focusing solely on the biological mechanics. However, this historical context adds to the film's significance, offering a glimpse into past societal attitudes and the evolution of sex education.
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