Part 2: The menstrual cycle

• If the boys are present for this topic, it is suggested that there is a discussion about the importance of boys learning about menstruation. Consider discussing the number of significant women in a boy’s life, both now and in the future e.g. Mum, sisters, future girl friends, wives and daughters will all experience menstruation. It’s important for boys to know how this will affect both themselves, and these women.
• Discuss why women menstruate – refer to Worksheet 3: The Menstrual Cycle.

The students should understand the reproductive systems in both sexes before the menstrual cycle is discussed. This will help put the menstrual cycle lesson in context.

• Discuss with the students each aspect of the menstrual cycle. Consider creating several sets of menstrual cycle cards with each card representing one step in the menstrual cycle. Divide the class into groups, and give each group a set of cards. Each group should attempt to place the cards in order without looking at The Menstrual Cycle Worksheet.
• Discuss with the class other things problems associated with menstruation; “cramps”/menstruation/period-symptoms/cramps/, back aches, sore breasts, headaches, constipation, diarrhoea, weight gain, tiredness, depression and irritability (PMS). Consider discussing methods of relief including heat packs, and pharmaceutical pain relief products, as well as the benefits of being healthy (physical and dietary health). Emphasise that girls should be able to do all their normal activities during their period, including physical activities.
• Discuss with the class the things that can affect the regularity of periods; pregnancy, stress, severe dieting, anorexia nervosa, bulimia and strenuous physical training (amenorrhea). Also consider explaining that it can take a few years after puberty has started to get into a regular cycle, and irregularity is not necessarily abnormal at this point.
• Bring U by Kotex® Ultrathin pads, tampons and liners to class and ask the class to name each product. Allow the students to take a closer look at the products by passing them around the class. Consider discussing the different sizes of each product, and at which stage of the menstrual cycle they are best utilised.

Some students might be embarrassed about this discussion, so it-s best to ask the group as a whole rather than asking individual students.

• Do an experiment with the students to demonstrate the amount of blood lost during menstruation, and how each product absorbs it. About 2-6 tablespoons of blood is lost per period. Consider dropping a few teaspoons of diluted cordial on an Ultrathin pad to demonstrate how it collects blood, and immerse a tampon in a glass of cordial to show how it expands to absorb menstrual fluid.
• Discuss with the students the use of tampons, and the precautions that should be taken to avoid Toxic Shock Syndrome (refer to the U by Kotex® All About You booklet in sample packs for further information). Encourage questions, and stress that TSS only occurs if tampons are not changed as often as required.

Activities:

• Worksheet 3: The Menstrual Cycle – This will explain the menstrual cycle to students.
• Worksheet 4: Menstruation crossword – This will help reinforce the learnings on the menstrual cycle.
• Consider breaking students in to groups to design a slogan and advertising campaign for menstrual products. Encourage a positive attitude towards going through puberty and the changes that are being experienced.*