Breaking Down Period Stigma in Remote Communities
Hoping to break down the stigma of talking about periods, researchers have developed a teaching guide on menstrual health for remote Indigenous communities.
Embracing Menstrual Health Education
“We’re talking about a biological process,” University of Queensland school of public health adjunct lecturer Minnie King told AAP.
- “It is a basic human right to menstruate with dignity and have access to support mechanisms including infrastructure and pain relief.”
Ms King and associate professor Nina Lansbury worked with students in the western Cape York Peninsula to understand what they wanted to know about menstrual health.
Dr Lansbury and Ms King co-designed with the community, the guide, which includes interactive resources like quizzes, puzzles, classroom activities, and conversation starters.
Ms King, a Kaiwalagal, Umaii, and Kiwai woman, who lives in the western cape says the students, schools, and wider community in the region have embraced the project.
Removing Stigma through Education
Dr Lansbury says engaging in conversations around menstrual health can help remove any stigma.
- “Menstrual health can impact a student’s academic performance, health, and quality of life,” Dr Lansbury said. “Stigma or shame around a topic that is just biology holds us back from being able to share knowledge.”
Ms King said the project has been eight years in the making and already there’s been some positive shifts in attitudes.
“The more we talk about this, the more it becomes part of acceptance and understanding,” she said.
Promoting Inclusive Education
Ms King said there’s also been interest from remote communities across the country, but the guide could be used to teach all students about menstrual health.
- “So much of what is out there in today’s world that is portrayed, it can be superficial and external,” she said.
- “Mind your body is actually about taking a look inside, creating a safe space, a culturally safe space and inclusive space.”
- “This is about taking care of oneself and what happens biologically …. for anyone who menstruates.”
Minnie King says the project has already brought about a positive shift in attitudes. Source: AAP / University of Queensland
Conclusion
Breaking down period stigma in remote communities is crucial for promoting menstrual health education and empowering individuals to advocate for their own well-being. By engaging in open conversations and providing inclusive resources, researchers like Minnie King and Nina Lansbury are paving the way for a more informed and accepting society.
FAQs
What is the importance of menstrual health education in remote communities?
Menstrual health education is essential in remote communities to ensure individuals have access to necessary information, resources, and support for managing their periods with dignity and understanding.
How can promoting inclusive education on menstrual health benefit society?
Promoting inclusive education on menstrual health can help break down stigma, improve health literacy, and empower individuals to take charge of their well-being, ultimately leading to a more informed and accepting society.