A recent study by University College London (UCL) researchers reveals that school education on menstruation heavily emphasizes basic biology while neglecting how periods affect mood, well-being, and performance. Published in *Women’s Health*, the study calls for more comprehensive teaching in both mixed and single-sex classes in primary and secondary schools, a practice not uniformly applied across schools. Since 2020, sex education has been mandatory in English schools and covers topics like endometriosis and PCOS. Although it’s also required in Welsh schools, it is not in Scotland.
The researchers point out that students in Britain typically receive only two lessons on menstruation throughout their schooling. Professor Joyce Harper from UCL stated, “While teaching about periods is now required, it often boils down to just two lessons focusing on basic biology.” The study participants and researchers advocate for lessons that address how periods influence well-being, academic, and sports performance, and differentiate normal from abnormal bleeding.
Focus groups emphasized the importance of including boys in these lessons. Mixed-gender classes could enhance understanding and support, whereas single-gender classes might encourage open discussions.
The research, involving 55 women aged 18 to 40, indicated a need for better resources to aid teaching. Participants, recruited via social media, mostly lived in the UK and were mainly educated before menstruation education was mandated. One participant highlighted the educational gap: “Teaching should focus on the practical impacts of hormonal changes on mood and performance.”
The study also noted that menstruation remains stigmatized, preventing individuals from seeking assistance. Co-author Caroline Musulin described how stigma and secrecy contribute to ignoring menstrual issues. Dr. Natania Yeshitila found participants confused by normal bodily processes due to inadequate education.
The study acknowledges a potential sampling bias as participants were primarily reached through social media. It also notes the exclusion of gender-diverse individuals, suggesting further research is needed.
For more information, refer to “Periods and well-being: A focus group study” in *Women’s Health* (2025), DOI: 10.1177/17455057251362992. Additional details can be found in the article “Boys can help break the taboo around periods” on Phys.org, retrieved on August 20, 2025.
