Following an article in the Oxford Mail last month, ‘Oxford school tells girls they can’t miss class because of their periods’, a group of gynaecologists from the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust offer ‘an alternative perspective on problematic periods’.

Written by Professor Katy Vincent (Consultant Gynaecologist), Professor Ingrid Granne (Consultant Gynaecologist), Susie Saeed (Gynaecology Matron) and Dr Sharon Dixon (GP).

Yes, periods are the leading cause of school and work absenteeism in girls and young women.

However, this is not because they are used as an excuse, but because for many the associated symptoms are unbearable and they may often be unable to leave the house, let alone concentrate at school or work.

Heat packs and over-the-counter painkillers (as suggested) will make little difference when pain is so severe.

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Some women and girls are fortunate enough to not have problem periods, but telling girls they need to learn to deal with periods as ‘part of being a woman’ is not the right message.

Oxford Mail:

Ingrid Granne.

It goes against the fantastic work that charities such as Endometriosis UK and Bloody Good Period have been doing to reduce the stigma associated with periods, and encouraging those with problems to ask for help.

Women or girls suffering from problem periods should contact their GP for help, who can then refer them onto specialist services for advice and treatment.

We are increasingly aware of the long-term consequences of untreated severe period pain, including effects on both mental health and educational attainment.

Oxford Mail:

Susie Saeed.

Moreover, not seeking help and therefore not having the opportunity to discuss the presence or otherwise of other related symptoms (including bowel symptoms and pain at other times of the month) may also contribute to a delay in the diagnosis of underlying conditions such as endometriosis.

Alternatively, heavy bleeding may be the predominant concern with anxiety about the potential for embarrassment associated with this.

Education around modern day menstrual products such as absorbable underwear and menstrual cups would be helpful, however, schools and work places could also reduce the impact of heavy bleeding.

Free access to suitably pleasant and equipped toilet facilities without the need to answer embarrassing questions in front of their peers would encourage girls and women to go to school and work on days of heavy bleeding if they feel well enough to do so.

Oxford Mail:

Katy Vincent.

Some schools are doing great work to reduce period poverty, ensuring girls can access sanitary protection easily at school where they may not be able to at home.

However, for some girls, bleeding will be so heavy that without treatment they are unable to leave the house.

The Government recently introduced plans to teach menstrual wellbeing in schools with the expectation that this would be delivered to both boys and girls.

Oxford Mail:

Sharon Dixon.

We would be very happy to add to this by providing education sessions for any educational establishment that recognises this need.

We would like to see a time when no girl misses out on her education because of her period.

However, we do not wish to encourage girls to learn to deal with these problems, but rather educate and empower them so they understand what help is available and how to access it.