Why would a feminine hygiene product like tampons be taxed as 'luxury' items? I doubt any woman thinks the monthly period they must endure for several decades is something they look forward to and can't wait to drop $7-$15 or more on a box of them. So why are they taxed as if a woman can choose whether to have her period? President Obama, who is surrounded by women at home, knows that the laws were likely made by male legislators.