Research Update: Menstrual Health Discourses
The Menstrual Health Discourses project investigated the key differences in how UK-based Generation-Zers, Millennials, and health and lifestyle brands communicate about menstrual health. In partnership with Thrive: Words That Change Lives, a communication agency specialising in health and behaviour change content, the study identified ways in which healthcare workers and brands could improve their communication practices.
Focus group participants (c. 50) shared their perspectives and experiences of menstrual health and healthcare. The research highlighted intergenerational differences, as well as discrepancies between individual experiences of menstrual health(care) and industry communications, particularly surrounding: managing natural menstrual cycles; menstrual health and relationships; hormonal contraceptives; experiences of seeking support and information; communicating with healthcare professionals and brands; experiences of pain and coping strategies; and the relationship between menstrual and mental health.
The University of Nottingham have issued a press release to promote Thrive's white paper, which outlines our main findings.
