Athlone trio tackle menstrual stigma with groundbreaking research
A trio of students from Athlone Community College – Niamh O’Reilly, Aukse Vinciunaite, and Leah Maguire – have set out to break taboos and spark conversations with their BT Young Scientist project, "Unravelling Menstrual Stigmas and Mood Mysteries." Their research focuses on the relationship between the menstrual cycle and women’s wellbeing, as well as addressing gaps in knowledge and education surrounding the topic.
The team explored how hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle impact mood. “We examined phases of the cycle, including the rise and fall of estrogen and progesterone, and their effects on neurotransmitters like serotonin,” they explained. “For example, higher estrogen levels before ovulation can lead to improved mood, while lower levels during menstruation can result in low mood due to decreased serotonin.”
To deepen their understanding, the students conducted surveys with over 550 of their peers, spanning first to fifth years. They found that many students lacked confidence in their knowledge of the menstrual cycle and its hormonal effects. Alarmingly, only 15% of respondents had received any sexual education in primary school, and 77% reported little to no knowledge about menstrual-related conditions.
Their findings revealed a significant stigma surrounding the topic, particularly among male students, many of whom expressed discomfort discussing the menstrual cycle. “This highlights the need for more inclusive and comprehensive education,” the team noted.
In an innovative move, the group collaborated with their local college, TUS, to conceptualise a menstrual cycle tracking app tailored for young women. Unlike existing apps, theirs would prioritize privacy, affordability, and educational content, providing users with a resource to better understand their cycles and related conditions.
“We hope our project shines a light on the lack of education and the persistent stigma around menstruation,” the team concluded.
“By raising awareness and improving teaching methods, we can break the silence and foster a more informed, supportive environment for everyone.”