The intersection of menstruation, school and family: Experiences of girls growing up in urban areas in the U.S.A.

Abstract

Evidence on U.S.A. girls’ experiences with menstruation, especially in schools, remains limited. This includes learning from low-income, urban and Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) girls; with the latter often experiencing puberty and menarche earlier than their peers. Qualitative and participatory research methodologies were utilized with girls (15-19) and adults working with youth in three U.S.A. cities (New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago), exploring experiences of menstruation within school and family contexts. Findings revealed gaps in girls’ practical knowledge and support around menstruation, challenges with menstrual pain while in school, and the negative impact of menstruation on girls’ engagement in physical or sports-related activities. There is a need for improved guidance on the practicalities of period management and strategies to support girls with menstrual pain. Lastly, given the benefits of physical activity on girls’ health, new approaches are needed to improve their sport and physical activity experiences while menstruating.