Period Education – Why Everyone Needs to Be in the Room

A new study from University College London (UCL) has highlighted something we’ve been saying for years: period education works best when boys and girls learn together.

Too often, menstruation gets taught in a quick, split-off lesson (usually just once in primary and once in secondary). That leaves lots of gaps, not just about the biology, but about how periods affect daily life, school, sport, friendships, and wellbeing.

And it matters. Women's health and menstruation are included in the new RSHE guidance. As the Department for Education put it:

“Understanding menstruation is an important part of growing up, which is why we have brought in a new RSHE curriculum to take effect next year, with clear guidance that pupils should be taught about both physical and emotional changes.”

Where Loudmouth Comes In

Our My Mate Fancies You programme already tackles exactly this. It gives pupils the chance to talk openly about growing up, relationships and, yes, periods, together. By keeping boys and girls in the same conversation, we help break down stigma, build empathy, and normalise what half the population experiences every month. Schools love it because it’s not just about facts, it’s about helping young people understand each other. That means fewer myths, less embarrassment, and more confidence.

The Bottom Line

Periods aren’t just a 'girls’ issue', they’re a human issue and teaching them inclusively is the key to creating supportive, respectful school communities.

Want to get your pupils talking (and listening) about this in the right way? Book our My Mate Fancies You programme and let’s start changing the conversation together. Contact us on 0121 446 4880 or email enquiry@loudmouth.co.uk