64% of girls aged 14-21 miss part of a school day because of their period
Periods should never stand in the way of education. Yet, an alarming survey by Plan International UK reveals that 64% of girls aged 14-21 in the UK have missed at least part of a school day because of their period, and 13% miss a full day every month. This isn’t just about missing classes—it’s about equity, opportunity, and addressing the unnecessary barriers menstruators face every day.
Why It Happens
Teens want to fit in; they want to be liked and loved, as everyone should. Having your period in school can feel like an insurmountable hurdle to fitting in. Outdated stigmas around menstruation create shame and embarrassment, while a lack of access to period products and inadequate facilities compounds the issue.
For some, the fear of a leaked pad or an awkward moment is enough to stay home. One in ten girls in the UK can’t afford period products, often resorting to uncomfortable and unreliable substitutes like tissue paper or overusing pads. This isn’t just a health risk; it’s a barrier to participation and confidence These challenges aren’t just logistical—they’re cultural, rooted in silence and a lack of understanding of what menstruators truly need.
All of this stems from the lack of conversation and understanding of these needs. When students miss lessons, they miss opportunities, often without the voice to explain why. This problem isn’t just logistical, it’s cultural.
The Ripple Effect of Absence
Missing even a single day each month has a compounding effect: lost learning, slipping grades, and feelings of isolation. For older students, these absences can negatively impact exam results, self-esteem, and future opportunities. The cost isn’t just academic—it’s social, emotional, and professional.
A New Era of Period Care
At LU Innovations, we believe menstrual care is about more than products—it’s about changing the narrative. We are committed to breaking barriers through bold action:
- Changing the Conversation
Normalising periods through educational campaigns can dismantle outdated myths and encourage open, honest discussions between students, teachers, and parents. - Free Period Products in Schools
Scotland has taken the lead, ensuring free period products are available in schools. It’s time for England and Wales to expand these efforts and ensure no student is left behind. - Smart Solutions for Active Lives
Our innovative products empower menstruators to thrive—whether in classrooms, on the pitch, or in the great outdoors. - Community Advocacy
Change needs collective effort. Through partnerships with schools, employers, and grassroots organisations, we can tackle stigma and period poverty head-on, ensuring systemic change.
Empowering a Generation
Periods should never hinder anyone’s potential. At LU, we are rewriting the story of menstrual care with confidence, innovation, and advocacy. By addressing the barriers menstruators face, we can inspire a generation to embrace life without limits.
Together, let’s create a world where education, adventure, and opportunity are not dictated by menstruation.
