Men and menstruation: views and perspectives influencing participation in adventurous activities

Abstract

Menstruation impacts participation in adventurous activities but there are gaps in reported research on the views and perspectives of men. This study examines the ways in which people who menstruate (inclusive of the LGBTQIA+ community) perceive and report attitudes to menstruation and the menstrual cycle by men, and the ways in which cis-males themselves articulate their knowledge and actions. This research takes a biological, social and cultural approach explored through a survey of those who menstruate (n=800) and interviews with cis-males in adventurous activity leadership roles (n=6). Rich qualitative data on the lived experiences of all respondents indicate embarrassment as a major emotion by menstruating individuals and in respect to the limited knowledge felt by cis-males. More experienced cis-male leaders were confident in their strategies and engaged openly in discussions about menstruation management with participants, but all felt that they could learn more. The key recommendations from this research are: The provision of suitable toilet and waste disposal facilities where possible with free period products; more education and training around menstruation and its management in the outdoors for men and women with shared discussions of good practice; and the encouragement of open dialogue with participants around menstruation management to promote an inclusive and accessible participatory environment.