Back to search

MenstruAction

2025-1-LT02-KA152-YOU-0003035002025Mobility of young peopleongoing
Countries: LT|EL|HU|RO|IT|EE · Grant: €41,201
Promoting gender equalityPhysical and mental health, well-being

Objectives

This youth exchange project is rooted in our direct experiences working with young people in youth centers and schools, as well as experience in previous youth exchanges. During one of the projects that focused on mental well-being, a workshop on hormonal health, including the menstrual cycle’s impact, sparked meaningful discussions. Participants shared struggles in understanding their cycles, managing symptoms, and finding proper nutrition, revealing a strong need for education and open dialogue on menstrual health and its connection to mental well-being. Through our work, we have observed firsthand how menstruation remains a taboo topic. One of our team members, working in a youth center, has seen that many girls feel ashamed to talk about their menstrual cycles, as if it were something to hide. Another team member, working in a school, has noticed that boys often lack basic knowledge about menstruation, leading to the creation of myths, misconceptions, and misunderstandings. This gap in understanding can also impact relationships, as some boys struggle to comprehend mood changes influenced by hormonal fluctuations, and many partners feel unprepared to provide support when their significant other experiences emotional or physical discomfort before or during menstruation. These observations are strongly supported by scientific research and statistics. Numerous studies highlight the prevalence of menstrual stigma, feelings of shame, and a widespread lack of knowledge about the menstrual cycle. Research has shown that in many countries, menstruation-related stigma contributes to low self-esteem, social isolation, and even gender inequality. This project aims to bridge these gaps by fostering awareness, empathy, and informed discussions, ensuring that young people of all genders feel empowered to openly talk about and understand menstruation. Project Objectives: Enhancing knowledge and awareness: Educate participants on the menstrual cycle’s physical, psychological, and spiritual dimensions to improve their understanding of their own or others’ bodies. Supporting physical health: Share strategies for managing menstrual health through nutrition, health care products, sleep, and holistic approaches like breathing exercises to ease symptoms. Promoting psychological and social well-being: We aim to enhance psychological and social well-being by examining the link between menstrual and body rhythms and mental health, helping participants develop a deeper understanding of their health and cultivate lifelong self-care habits. Exploring the menstrual cycle’s transformative potential: Introduce the menstrual cycle’s phases and their connection to well-being, self-expression, and healing through art, creative and spiritual activities. Encouraging beneficial use of digital tools: Promote cycle-tracking apps and other digital resources to help participants manage their health effectively. Fostering open communication and reducing stigma: Create a safe, judgment-free space for discussions, addressing common myths and misconceptions. Participants of all genders will develop empathy and communication skills to navigate menstruation-related topics with respect and understanding. This project will equip young people with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to approach menstrual health holistically, breaking taboos and fostering a culture of openness, empathy, and well-being in their communities.

Project partners (6)