PSD teachers' perception of year 6 and form 1 girls' knowledge on menstruation

Abstract

The study explored the information PSD Specialists provide to nine to 11 year old girls regarding menstruation, the most common questions asked and teachers' perspectives on the theme. 71 out of 114 Year 6 and Form 1 PSD specialists participated. A questionnaire was designed based on literature. Results indicate that few teachers avoided menstruation education or felt embarrassed addressing this issue. Most teachers felt prepared to discuss menstruation. Hygiene, emotional changes and topics about reasons why women menstruate were given most importance. Effects of exercise, the approximate monthly amount of blood lost and tampon use were given least weight. Discussions, booklets, leaflets and brainstorming were regarded as the most useful resources. Girls were perceived as interested and eager to ask questions. Early developers risk being unprepared due to the timing of lessons. Respondents believed that girls perceive menstruation as an uncomfortable experience but a positive event in their lives.