Quarter of Gen Z adults face first period without proper guidance on products

A quarter of Gen Z adults were not taught how to use menstrual products before their first period, research has revealed.

The study, which surveyed 1,000 adults who menstruate, found that 23% of those aged 25 and under had to figure it out on their own, with 27% resorting to online resources for guidance.

A third managed to navigate the process “through trial and error”, while 40% relied on the instructions provided on sanitary product packaging.

But due to lack of education, 25% have experienced leaking in public, and 16% suffered pain from improper use. Some have even had to leave school (8%) or a social event (7%) prematurely.

The study was commissioned by Initial Washroom Hygiene, which has partnered with obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Shazia Malik to produce educational videos to bridge the knowledge gap.

Dr Malik stated: “A lack of education on period products and menstruation can be detrimental at any age and can be daunting for those who haven’t been taught fully growing up. No one should have to face embarrassment or shame from starting their periods.”

The research showed that 16% of participants were unaware of disposable sanitary pads before they began menstruating, and 29% had not been informed about tampons.

Respondents expressed a desire for more education on various aspects of menstruation, including understanding PMS and how they would feel (40%), managing leaks (39%), and comprehending the changes in their bodies (32%).

Over a fifth (22%) wanted more information on the potential consequences of using inappropriate products, while 21% wished they had known at what age they would start menstruating.

Consequently, many of those surveyed, via OnePoll, admitted to holding various misconceptions about menstruation.

For instance, 37% believed you can’t swim during your period, 27% thought all women have a period every 28 days, and 26% believed you couldn’t have sex during menstruation.

Other misconceptions included not being able to get pregnant while menstruating (24%), people being able to tell when you’re on your period (14%), and even the belief that you can’t bathe during your period (12%).

Despite this, 53% confessed they would have felt too embarrassed to ask their teachers for help with these questions, and 36% felt the same about asking their parents.

Sian Walkling, from Initial Washroom Hygiene, commented: “There is a clear gap in the education that young women are receiving regarding their menstrual cycle, which is having a serious effect on their first period experiences.”

“We’re determined to help bridge this gap and make using period products easier, and less intimidating for menstruators of all ages. And as older women will hopefully become a source of knowledge for their daughters, nieces, and grandchildren this education must be available to all.”