Compulsory Period Education for Boys and Girls Urged by New Study

Published: 20 August 2025. The English Chronicle Desk

Boys and girls should be taught about periods together in schools to foster a better understanding of menstruation, according to new research conducted by academics at University College London (UCL). The study highlights significant gaps in current school curricula, where many students reportedly receive only two lessons on periods throughout their entire education – one in primary school and one in secondary school. Researchers are now calling for more comprehensive and inclusive menstruation education.

Since September 2020, relationships and sex education has been compulsory in secondary schools in England, while relationships education has been mandatory in primary schools. However, Professor Joyce Harper from the UCL Institute for Women’s Health emphasised that “Educating pupils about periods may now be compulsory in schools in England and Wales, but we know that for many of them that still only amounts to two lessons in their entire school career.”

The study recommends that lessons on periods be delivered to mixed-sex groups, as well as single-sex groups, to ensure that boys are included in discussions and gain a better understanding of menstruation. Professor Harper explained, “Our focus groups were also of the view that boys need to be part of that education. Mixed sessions are crucial for boys’ education, helping them understand and support their friends and future partners through menopause.”

The research involved 55 women aged between 18 and 40, divided into two age groups. Five focus groups were conducted for each group, with participants recruited via social media. Many of the women had been educated before the introduction of mandatory menstrual education in English schools. The study found that menstruation remains highly stigmatised, and a lack of education often prevents individuals from seeking appropriate medical advice.

Co-author Caroline Musulin highlighted the personal and systemic impact of inadequate education on menstruation, saying, “Many women endure menstrual problems longer than they should due to the inability to speak openly about uncertainties, fears of being dismissed by healthcare professionals, the view that it’s ‘just’ a painful period or feelings of shame. Stigma, secrecy, and the expectation to ‘cope’ contribute to the systemic dismissal of menstrual discomfort.”

Government guidance on relationships, sex, and health education (RSHE) now requires pupils to learn about menstruation from primary school, covering physical and emotional changes, and to receive more advanced education by the end of secondary school on topics such as premenstrual syndrome, heavy menstrual bleeding, endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, and menopause. The Department for Education emphasises that “RSE lessons should ensure that both boys and girls have opportunities to practise respectful communication and understand experiences which are different from their own, including menstruation and menopause.”

Schools in England will be required to follow statutory RSHE guidance from September 2026. Sarah Hannafin, head of policy for school leaders’ union NAHT, said, “Teaching about periods is a vital part of health education for all pupils. Mixed-sex groups should be planned to ensure that pupils understand each other’s experiences. Schools need high-quality resources to support this education, which requires more than a single lesson given the already crowded curriculum.”

Pepe Di’Iasio, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, added, “We fully support the need for boys and girls to be taught about menstruation in a comprehensive manner that goes beyond biological facts and addresses the wider effects on wellbeing.”

The research underlines a growing consensus among academics and education leaders that a more inclusive and extensive approach to menstrual education is essential, not only for improving knowledge but also for addressing stigma and promoting health and wellbeing among young people.