Menstrual experiences of adolescent female school pupils in England

Abstract

Background Menstruation can negatively impact quality of life (QoL), particularly during adolescence. In addition to physical and emotional symptoms, there is a stigma surrounding menstruation and a lack of support and education; which can have detrimental effects on wellbeing. This study aims to (1) explore if girls in schools across South East England feel that periods affect their wellbeing, (2) to understand the support and education that girls receive and (3) to suggest changes to improve menstrual health education and support in English schools. Methods Eight focus groups were carried out in four schools, two in each school, with a total of 49 year-10 girls participating (all cisgender). Four questions were asked in each focus group relating to the girls’ attitudes to having a period, how their period affected their wellbeing, the support they need and how could education be improved. Results The girls had mostly negative attitudes about periods, and said their periods negatively impacted their physical, emotional, and social QoL, affecting areas such as friendships, schoolwork, and socialising. They expressed a desire for more menstrual education and for boys to be included. They wanted improved menstrual support, especially at school, in the form of access to period products, days off school, and emotional support. Conclusion This study highlights the negative impact that menstruation can have on the QoL of girls. It also shows the need for improved support and education for both boys and girls from an early age; which may help dissipate period stigma and increase QoL.