Heavy, prolonged periods and severe menstrual pain are linked with lower school attendance and poorer GCSE scores, according to new research from England. The study, which focused on over 2,700 girls aged 13 to 16 taking their GCSEs between 2006 and 2009, found that more than a third of participants experienced heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. This was associated with missing an additional 1.7 days of school each year. The study also revealed that those suffering from these symptoms achieved about one grade lower at GCSE and had 27% lower odds of achieving five standard GCSE passes, which are often necessary to progress in education.
The Impact of Menstrual Symptoms on Education
Girls participating in the study were asked about severe cramps and pain during periods, with more than half reporting experiencing these symptoms. Severe cramps and pain were linked with an additional 1.2 days off school and half a grade lower at GCSE. The findings suggest that heavy or prolonged bleeding and menstrual pain have a significant impact on school attendance and educational attainment. The report concluded that more research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind these associations and to develop strategies to address menstruation-related inequalities to lessen the negative effects of menstrual symptoms on education.
Challenges Faced by Menstruating Students
The study also highlighted various challenges faced by menstruating students, including menstrual anxiety, concerns about leaking, feelings of shame and embarrassment due to menstrual stigma, bullying, difficulties managing symptoms while at school, and problems accessing toilets during lessons. These factors, along with the experience of debilitating symptoms, may contribute to the difficulties faced by girls dealing with heavy or prolonged periods and severe menstrual pain. Gemma Sharp, associate professor of epidemiology at the University of Exeter, emphasized the importance of not labeling women as less capable because of their periods. She pointed out that societal support for individuals menstruating, especially those experiencing heavy bleeding or pain, is lacking.
The Need for Support and Awareness
The research, which is yet to be published but will be presented at the Menstruation Research Conference in London, sheds light on the impact of menstrual symptoms on education. Jaysan Charlesford, a lecturer in psychology at the University of Plymouth, highlighted the importance of addressing these issues to promote inclusion and equity in education. Another report on period inequality revealed that school toilets are often locked, and students are denied permission to leave classes, leading to some learners menstruating through their uniforms. This lack of access to toilets in schools poses a significant barrier to education for students dealing with menstruation. Chrissy Cattle, the chief executive of Irise International, stressed the importance of unrestricted toilet access in schools to ensure that education remains a right for all students. Julie McCulloch, senior director of strategy and policy at the Association of School and College Leaders, acknowledged the efforts of schools in supporting students with heavy and painful periods but recognized the serious impact these issues have on students’ health and well-being.
Overall, the research underscores the need for greater awareness and support for students dealing with menstrual symptoms in educational settings. By addressing the challenges faced by menstruating students and working towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment, schools can help ensure that all students have equal opportunities to succeed in their education.
