A week ago, I had the opportunity to participate in a roundtable discussion organized by Glam Media on behalf of U by Kotex and “Generation Know.” Generation Know is a platform that seeks to educate young women on women’s health, encourage them to love their bodies and remove the stigma associated with discussing “our bodies.”

12 bloggers, including myself, descended upon Image Powerhouse Studios in NYC. We knew we would be on camera all day, but the relaxing atmosphere of the studio, coupled with mingling and our own personal Glam Squad (House of Makeup), eased the nervousness anyone may have been feeling. Not only were we going to be on camera, but we were going to be talking candidly about our vaginas *gasp*

In a larger group discussion–led by U by Kotex Ambassadors Dr. Vanessa Schick & Kat Lazo and moderated by Caitlin Boyle–we spoke about everything from the representation of women in media to “first period” stories. The discussion was at times lighthearted, but also serious and enlightening as fellow bloggers shared very personal stories about their health and bodies.

After the large roundtable discussion, the bloggers were treated to a lovely lunch that consisted of a Mediterranean chopped salad (absolutely delicious), chicken, scalloped potatoes, brussel sprouts and a chocolate caramel tart.

Once lunch had been cleared away, it was time for our smaller #GENKNOW group discussions. We discussed breaking the silence about periods and vaginal health, busting myths associated with periods and how we could empower the next generation to “get in the know.”

By the end of the discussions, it became apparent that while we sit in silence, we forget that we, as women, have similar equipment, gripes, concerns and experiences. Participating in Generation Know, showed us that speaking to our peers, siblings, mentees and maybe even our mothers and grandmothers, is a step in the right direction for creating and fostering a world where women’s bodies are celebrated and not tabooed.

#GenKnow Bloggers: Her Goody Bag (Janique), So Much to Smile About (Liz), Fasshionabaru (Victoria), The Style & Beauty Doctor (Danielle), Channing in the City (Channing), Girl Gone Veggie (Erin), Fashionably Broke (Natalie), Organic Beauty Vixen (Sherrell), Pretty Connected (Lara), Fitting It All In (Clare) & Operation Beautiful (Caitlin)

U by Kotex Brand is committed to empowering girls to change the way the world thinks about periods and vaginas through Generation Know, the first generation of girls comfortable asking questions, gaining real knowledge and spreading information about their health and bodies to others. To get the facts, learn how to make a difference and get a free Generation Know bracelet to symbolize your commitment, visit http://www.GenerationKnow.com. For every girl that joins, U by Kotex brand will donate to Girls For A Change to continue to create change.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by U by Kotex® via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of U by Kotex®.