Menstruation matters: advice from students
Current LJMU students have shared how they manage their menstrual health whilst on campus in response to areas of concern highlighted in the LJMU EDI funded research project Menstruation Matters.
Through working on the Menstruation Matters project, my aim is to help create a more open and supportive environment where students feel comfortable talking about both the physical and mental impacts of the menstrual cycle. I hope my work encourages awareness amongst all students, and reduce any stigma around this important topic.
Aliyah, Level 6 student
Your cycle, your mind: Understand it. Own it.
Periods can affect more than just your body - they can impact your mood, focus, and energy levels too. This is completely normal, and you’re not alone.
How your cycle can affect you:
- Feeling anxious or emotional
- Low mood
- Feeling depressed or upset
- Difficulty focussing
- Forgetfulness
- Cramping
- Bloating
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Breast tenderness
- Feeling exhausted
- Sleeping for longer
- than usual
- Taking naps often
Download the Your cycle, your mind: Understand it. Own it. poster (PDF, 195KB)
Remember, everyone’s experience is unique. There is no ‘right’ way to feel.
Why do I feel so tired during lectures some weeks?
Low energy is common during certain points of the cycle. Try small steps like bringing snacks, staying hydrated, or taking short walks between classes.
My cramps make it hard to attend seminars - should I just push through?
It’s normal to struggle with pain. Heat packs, stretching, or medication may help. If symptoms are severe, seek advice from a GP.
I find it hard to focus on coursework, am I just being lazy?
Not at all! Brain fog and trouble concentrating are common symptoms. Try breaking work into smaller chunks and taking regular breaks.
Some days I feel like a completely different person, is that normal?
Yes! Hormonal changes can affect energy, mood, and confidence. Tracking your cycle can help you understand patterns and prepare for tough days.
Group projects feel overwhelming when my mood is low. What can I do?
Be kind to yourself. If you can, communicate with your group. Outside of study, speaking to friends or journaling can help process emotions.
I hope that this how to guide provides understanding on how academic staff can really help and make a difference for student’s experiences at university while facing menstruation.
Chloe, Level 6 student
Self-care tips for first year students during their period
- Book an appointment with a student wellbeing advisor.
- Use heating pads and painkillers if you’re able to.
- Eat healthily. Your body uses a lot of energy during your cycle, restore it.
- Carry products with you for more reassurance.
- Aim for between seven and nine hours of sleep and stay hydrated.
- Make full use of your study materials on Canvas.
- Speak to people who can relate, help or both.
Download the self-care tips for students poster (PDF, 154KB)
I hope this content helps overcome some fears that may surround the idea of a menstruation cycle and provides more information on who and where to get help.
Nadine, Level 6 student
How staff can support students during menstruation
Create supportive environment: By creating a supportive and welcoming environment within your lectures and seminars, students will feel more comfortable in university, especially during their menstruation.
Flexibility with attendance: 71% of female students at LJMU reported they missed lectures due to their periods. So if a student misses classes due to theirs, please be mindful its due to the pain and discomfort their experiencing.
Allowing easy bathroom access: Students reported they worried about attending their lectures and seminars while menstruating, as they struggle to change products during the short breaks. Therefore, making students aware they can leave to use the toilet during sessions would help to prevent this.
Signposting: By signposting students to the student wellbeing team and their personal tutors, they can get the additional ongoing support they may need for persistent challenges due to menstruation.
Promote positive messages around periods: 56% of students say that they feel uncomfortable about speaking to academic staff about any menstruation related issues, but have suggested if there was less stigma and shame towards the topic, they would feel more comfortable to.
Download the supporting students during menstruation poster (PDF, 80.8KB)
“Our aim is to provide support for all students facing issues with menstruation and we hope this content helps you.”
Tatjana and Jess, Level 6 Students