Let's Talk Periods

Every month, 1.8 billion people across the world menstruate. So why aren't we talking about it more?

Our periods can massively impact our mental and physical health and have an impact on the world around us too. We've collected some info and resources to help you manage your period, along with a provision of menstrual products for those struggling to financially support their periods.

Go With the Flow: The Positive Period Project

People who menstruate in the U.K. spend as much as £18,450 due to their period across their lifetime. Recent studies have shown that 10% of 14 – 21 year olds are unable to afford menstrual products.

An estimated 49% of 14 – 21-year-olds have missed a day of education due to their periods.

Here at AUB, we want to make sure that no one misses out because of their period. We have a stock of period products in the SU Office, that are available for those in need for free.

To access this provision, simply come to the SU Office and ask for Pat, Jules, Luna, or Skyler. A member of staff will discretely give you a selection of organic tampons, pads, a menstrual cup, or a re-usable pad. This provision is open to all AUB students, of all genders, who are struggling to afford their period or would be made vulnerable if they had to purchase products at uni.

Pan: A selection of organic tampons
Piper: A selection of organic pads
Phoenix: A menstrual cup
Pat: A reusable pad

You can access this provision as many times as you need to. Our SU staff are all aware of this provision and will support your request with no questions asked. We simply ask that you respect that this provision is only sustainable if we reserve access for those genuinely in need.

Sustainable Periods

Every year in the UK, the disposal of single-use menstrual products – pads, tampons and applicators – generates more than 200,000 tonnes of waste. Some pads contain as much plastic as 4 plastic bags! Opting for more sustainable products can help prevent the products you are using outliving you and causing damage to our planet.

Many people are opting for menstrual cups and reusable pads. To help you switch to these more sustainable options, here are some testimonials & top tips from members of the AUB community:

"I was initially quite wary of using a menstrual cup in case of leaks but I haven't looked back since! Even using a cup part for the majority of your period reduces your waste so you can always mix and match for whatever suits you. I recommend starting out with a pad as well as a cup so you can get used to it worry-free. It's also good to keep a bottle of water or some menstrual cup wipes handy in case you ever use a toilet without a discreet sink."

"Reusable pads"

[To make your own reusable pad, check out this info & template from the Women's Environmental Network)

Periods & your health

General health

Everyone's period is different so the best thing you can do is to get to know what's the norm for you, including how long your periods last, how heavy your flow is, the severity of any symptoms (like pain/cramps), and how often you get bleed. Any differences to what's normal and healthy for you could indicate that there's something else going on. We recommend seeing a medical professional if you experience any significant changes to your period or concerning symptoms.

Iron-deficiency Anaemia

The loss of red blood cells through heavy periods can lead to iron-deficiency anaemia. Research has found that 5% of women of childbearing age are affected. Indications of iron-deficiency include shortness of breath, feeling weak and fatigued, looking pale, and/or a rapid heartbeat. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, seek advice from your doctor. A simple blood test can tell you if you need treatment. [More info on Iron-deficiency Anaemia]

Impact of Contraception on your Period

Different contraception methods can impact your period and effects do vary person to person. If you have recently begun or changed contraceptive methods, then this may account for a change to your periods. When choosing your methods, you can get advice on what changes are likely from healthcare professionals. If you are at all concerned, it's always best to check with your GP.

Some examples of contraception impacting periods:

Some contraceptive pills can reduce the heaviness of your flow, so the pill is often a choice for many people, regardless of whether they need it for contraception or not.
When opting for a hormonal contraceptive method, expect some irregular bleeding and spotting in the first months of use.
With combination pills, the patch, and the ring, users generally experience monthly withdrawal bleeding that mimics a period (unless used continuously). It's important to understand that this isn't your period so may not indicate if you are experiencing any concerning symptoms or signs of pregnancy.
With some contraceptive methods, it is possible to have no monthly bleeding at all.

[More info on contraception]

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb starts to grow in other places, such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Symptoms include severe pain, difficulty and pain when going to the toilet, difficulty getting pregnant, and feeling sick during your period.

One in ten women and those assigned female at birth endure unrelenting pain that affects every aspect of their lives each day. That’s over 1.5 million who desperately need support and information to help them understand this chronic condition.

Currently, Endometriosis is difficult to diagnose, but if you are experiencing any of the symptoms of Endometriosis then you should talk to your GP. Some treatments are available without a full diagnosis, such as painkillers and hormone medicines/ contraceptives.

[More info on Endometriosis]

Looking after yourself

Eating healthy

Our bodies need some extra care because of our periods. Some foods can help support the production of vital vitamins & minerals, while others can ease symptoms:

Ginger, turmeric & peppermint are soothing, anti-inflammatories. Putting these in our food or drinking as tea can help ease pain and nausea.
Foods rich in iron can support our red blood cell production so opt for green leafy veg like spinach & kale.
Snacking on nuts will get you lots of protein, magnesium and various vitamins.

For more foods to eat (as well as what to avoid!), check here.

Exercise

Some people benefit from exercise during their periods, but it isn't for everyone! If you are feeling tired during your period, then you can always opt for some low intensity activity, such as this Yoga (with Adrienne) for Cramps & PMS: watch now via Youtube or going for a light walk to get some fresh air.

further support

Period Poverty UK: are working towards our goal to eliminate period poverty in Britain's most deprived communities by 2025.

Bloody Good Period: have worked with more than 100 organisations around the country, helping more women and people who menstruate have bloody good periods.

Endometriosis UK: provide vital support services, reliable information, and a community for those affected by endometriosis.

NHS: Period Advice: check symptoms, treatments and other health conditions relating to periods.

NHS: Find A GP: If you aren't registered with a GP, find your local practice here.

Bournemouth Food Bank: accept and distribute menstrual products for those in need around Bournemouth

Artwork by @ninasweeney