Introduction

Abstract

This introduction explores the emergence of the global menstrual movement, tracing its roots back to the early twentieth century. Focussing on Great Britain, this chapter identifies the key aims of the menstrual movement as well as the political and educational changes this movement has inspired. Drawing on scholarly literature, it examines five topics with which the movement in Great Britain is concerned, namely, menstrual stigma, ‘period poverty’, sustainability, menstrual health conditions, as well as inclusion and intersectionality. The introduction situates the book within critical menstruation studies, feminist scholarship, social movement studies, and the broader disciplines of sociology and communication whilst also highlighting its original contribution to these areas.