Developing Cycliteracy - exploring pathways towards increased menstrual health understanding and support in schools

The cyclical shedding of the endometrium has a natural and vital role to play in creation processes for human life. For those undergoing menstruation, on a monthly or more irregular basis, this can be a central and often challenging part of their individual lived experience. The considerable mental, physical and emotional toll associated with managing period bleeding (and any social or cultural stigma and expectations) can result in reduced cognitive resources for learning, reduced wellbeing, and increased likelihood of school absence. Furthermore, for some young people, managing changing hormone levels across the menstrual cycle can compound struggles with social dynamics and friendships. Taken together, this impacts academic performance and overall school experience. Teachers may fail to appreciate the scale of menstrual challenges, sometimes negating this experience or blocking timely bathroom access. This paper explores key menstrual challenges including absenteeism, pain, bleeding, the impact of hormones, and school belonging. The value of developing increased Cycliteracy and ensuring better Menstrual Health research and support, across schools, is discussed, along with questions and suggestions for educational psychologists, teachers, school support services, and educational policy makers.