Date of Graduation
5-2026
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Degree Level
Undergraduate
Department
Nursing
Advisor/Mentor
Gilmet, Kelsey
Committee Member
Ballentine, Hope
Abstract
Menstrual, reproductive, and sexual health education in the United States remains inconsistent in both content and delivery. This inconsistency often leaves adolescents underprepared for developmental milestones such as menarche and contributes to ongoing stigma and discomfort surrounding menstruation. This study examined participants’ feelings and perceptions related to menstruation and menstrual education. Using a cross-sectional descriptive survey design, a mixed-methods approach was employed to collect data from 29 college students aged 18 to 19 years at a large public university in Arkansas. Quantitative data from Likert-scale items were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative open-ended responses were reviewed and organized into recurring themes.
Findings indicate that while participants generally perceive menstruation as a normal biological process, notable levels of embarrassment, stigma, and discomfort persist, particularly in mixed-gender settings. While the majority received some form of menstrual education prior to menarche, this education was frequently limited in scope and primarily focused on biological processes, with minimal attention to practical or emotional aspects. As a result, many participants relied on female family members for more comprehensive guidance and support. Participants also demonstrated limited awareness of structural issues, such as the accessibility and affordability of menstrual products, though they expressed strong empathetic responses when these challenges were recognized.
Overall, these findings highlight the need for more comprehensive, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate menstrual education that addresses both the practical and emotional dimensions of menstruation, promotes open communication across genders, and supports efforts to reduce stigma and improve access to menstrual health resources.
Keywords
Menstruation; Education; Stigma; Adolescents; Communication; Access
Citation
Handel, E. A. (2026). Exploring Student Feelings, Knowledge Related to Menstruation and Menstrual Education: A Cross-Sectional Survey. The Eleanor Mann School of Nursing Undergraduate Honors Theses Retrieved from https://scholarworks.uark.edu/nursuht/226
