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Menstrual Cycle Education in the UK

New Research

At school

Research Overview

The purpose of this study was two-fold, to 1) explore current education provision in UK schools including barriers to menstrual cycle education and 2) assess the perceived support teachers received to deliver menstrual cycle education. 789 teachers (91% female) from all stages of school education in England (48%), Scotland (24%), Wales (22%) and Northern Ireland (6%) completed an online survey. The survey captured information on menstrual education in schools, teacher’s knowledge and confidence of the menstrual cycle, support provided to teachers, provision of menstrual products in school and perceived impact of the menstrual cycle on young people in school.

498 teachers reported lessons were provided on the menstrual cycle (63%), predominantly delivered within personal, social, health and economic or science subjects, with over half of the lessons focusing on the biology (56%) or provision of menstrual products (40%) rather than lived experiences (14%). Teachers perceived the menstrual cycle affected participation in PE (88%), pupil confidence (88%), school attendance (82%) and attitude and behavior (82%). Overall, 80% of teachers felt receiving training would be beneficial to improve menstrual education. The results highlight education is scientifically focused, with less education on management of symptoms or lived experiences. Teachers also perceive the menstrual cycle to influence multiple aspects of school attendance and personal performance. There is a need to address menstrual education provided in schools across the UK to help empower girls to manage their menstrual cycle, preventing a negative impact on health and school performance.

Education Recommendations

01

Make time available for delivery, particularly to increase the regularity of teaching and lowering the age at which young people are first taught.

02

Provide resources for teachers to deliver information relating to emotional, social and physical aspects of the menstrual cycle.

03

Provide training support to teachers, with the minimum expectation for teachers to receive online professional development through e-learning and/or webinar.

04

Develop peer support groups for young people within schools to encourage open conversations.

05

Reframe the narrative, addressing historical societal construct including amongst teachers, students and parents.

I have always believed that knowledge is power for our young women. Knowing as much beforehand is always better than trying to explain afterward

Teacher (survey response)

Contributors

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Dr Natalie Brown

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Beky Williams

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Dr Jessica Piasecki

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Dr Laura Forrest

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Dr Georgie Bruinvels

For more information on period education research, please get in touch:

Dr Natalie Brown

Optimal Period

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We are committed to improving menstrual cycle education across the UK

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