Menstrual pain is experienced by a substantial number of menstruators and is a common cause of disruption to educational engagement and attainment. Evidence suggests adolescents lack adequate knowledge about their menstrual health, which hinders effective self-management. We also know that menstrual stigma remains rife and can negatively impact the way in which menstruation is experienced and managed. My PhD will explore how adolescents develop an understanding of menstrual health and experience menstrual pain. We also hope to develop an educational intervention aimed at improving awareness of menstrual health and specific symptom management. It is the hope that improving education on these topics will reduce school absenteeism attributed to menstrual issues.
Previously, I studied a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the University of Liverpool and a Master of Science in Foundations of Clinical Psychology at Newcastle University. I am also completing a postgraduate certificate in research methods during the first six months on my NINE DTP studentship.
