Woman got her period at work and no one had supplies — then a male coworker’s quiet gesture moved her
Even basic empathy around periods can leave a lasting impression because so many women are accustomed to stigma or dismissive attitudes. Threads user Kat Kolkmann, who goes by @chickenwingit716, got her period while at work and expected to borrow pads from her female co-workers. However, when she realized that none of them had any sanitary products, one male co-worker's response moved her. On Monday, May 25, 2026, Kolkmann noted how his immediate response made her survive an 8-hour shift.
Kolkmann's male co-worker overheard her discussing not having period supplies and approached her. He told her that he often carried supplies for his girlfriend in case of an emergency. He immediately grabbed two pads from his car and wrapped them in a pastry bag to hide them before handing them to Kolkmann. Praising his sweet gesture, she wrote, "We love an evolved king." His gesture not only proved that he was raised right, but also left a lasting impact on Kolkmann that she will likely always remember and be grateful for.
According to a study published in Science Direct, 94.7% had experienced getting their period at work, without being able to access menstrual products, which led to emotional distress. Meanwhile, 71.4% expressed concern about not having products available when required. On the other hand, 38.1% respondents noted that the lack of products left them feeling helpless. Following Kolkmann's post going viral, many internet users shared their thoughts on the kind gesture displayed by her male co-worker.
@tesla143 recounted, "I asked one of my managers (a woman) if she had a pad. She handed me a small pad without wings. From that moment on, I knew she wasn't a girl's girl." @bethuhknee_ mentioned, "This is a good idea. I rarely carry a purse and don't menstruate anymore, so I stopped carrying 'just in case' pads. I'm going to put some in my glove box." @pattiu2 remarked, "Years ago, my stepdad bought me a couple of packages of pads (I was in my early 30's) because he was shopping and said it was a great sale."
Boys who grow up learning openly about periods often develop a better understanding of the physical and emotional experiences women go through. In another story, a 12-year-old boy was shamed by his father after asking an innocent question about periods. The older man told his son not to talk about things that only girls needed to know, but the little boy's response shocked everyone. The brother had told his elder sister about one of his classmates getting her period during class. Curious to learn more, he asked his sister about it. Upon hearing the conversation, his father snapped at him, calling periods "disgusting." The little boy immediately replied, "That's why mom divorced you."
For more such content, follow @chickenwingit716 on Threads.
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