Menstrual Stigma and Perceived Academic Performance and Well-being in Menstruating Higher Education Students

In this qualitative study, we contribute to research on the effects of menstruation on women students in higher education by exploring how menstrual stigma relates to perceptions of academic performance and well-being. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 45 cis-female European students. Findings revealed prevalent menstrual stigma in higher education, which forced students to engage in discrete menstrual management practices to prevent social judgment and shame. Participants perceived that their academic performance was impacted by menstrual stigma, resulting in them experiencing lower well-being and self-esteem. Consequently, participants acquired coping strategies and voiced the desire for further support from educational institutions. Our results can serve as an important input for high education institutions wanting to support menstruating students and spotlight how menstrual stigma plays a critical role in negative outcomes.