The Impact of the Media and the Mediated Menstrual Movement on Young People’s Awareness and Perceptions of Menstrual Inequities

Abstract

This chapter explores young people’s awareness and perceptions of period poverty, menstrual health conditions, sustainability, and the experiences of transgender people who menstruate. It also considers the extent to which their awareness of these four themes has led to a change in their attitudes and offline behaviours. This chapter argues that, thanks to social media in particular, young people in Great Britain are becoming increasingly aware of issues around menstrual equity. Nevertheless, they have limited knowledge about menstrual health such as being able to identify if symptoms are typical or atypical. Ultimately, as my findings demonstrate, the changes that will have the greatest impact on young people are improved access to high quality menstrual education (which includes tactile engagement with menstrual products and discussions of lived experiences), opportunities to develop their media literacy skills, and the fostering of an inclusive and open culture around menstruation in educational settings. The menstrual movement must therefore continue to work with the government to improve menstrual education in schools and, where possible, support teachers and pupils.