The entertaining video “A Visit From Aunt Flo” perfectly illustrates the rollercoaster of emotions that surround that monthly visitor we call our period. From the initial excitement of receiving it to the subsequent dread as it becomes an unwelcome regularity, women of all ages experience this journey. It humorously showcases how, regardless of where we are in life, embracing humor is often the best approach to dealing with Aunt Flo.
Produced by HelloFlo, a platform devoted to women’s health that also offers quirky period kits filled with delightful treats timed for delivery each month, the video features Aunt Flo making appearances in a variety of relatable scenarios. Whether it’s a nervous couple dealing with a late arrival (“Is it bad?” “WELL IT’S NOT GOOD!”) or a pre-teen girl eagerly awaiting her first period, the reactions depicted are spot on.
As young teens, we can’t wait for that first period — it’s a rite of passage, a sign that we’re becoming women. We excitedly tell our friends about our new colorful tampon boxes. Fast forward a few years, and we find ourselves wishing Aunt Flo would just pack her bags and leave for good, especially when faced with the joys of menopause, hot flashes, and other surprises.
Periods accompany women through so many stages in life, and our perspectives on them certainly shift over time. For many, the start of a period can feel like either a blessing or a curse, particularly when considering family planning. If you’re trying to conceive, Aunt Flo can feel like the most unwelcome guest, no matter how charming she appears.
As Aunt Flo herself quips, “Some people call me a gift, some call me a curse. I prefer to think of myself as a miracle.” The couple caught in the video before Aunt Flo interrupts their moment surely sees her in a different light, but we get it, Flo. Women’s bodies are remarkable, and while that crimson tide often prompts eye rolls and cravings for chocolate, it’s a fascinating aspect of life.
This article originally appeared on April 11, 2016. For more insights on fertility and home insemination, check out our other blog post here.
In summary, the humorous portrayal of Aunt Flo serves as a reminder of the complex emotions surrounding periods, making it clear that no matter where we are in our reproductive journey, laughter helps us navigate the ups and downs.