Young women’s perceptions of sustainable menstrual products

Abstract

Sustainable menstrual products are not new technology but have been slow to become popular especially with young women. The way that information about sustainable menstrual products is presented to young women promotes uptake yet does not necessarily mean usage. The purpose of this study is to find out how young women perceive sustainable menstrual products and how their knowledge, or lack of, affects their product choices. The findings taken from an online questionnaire showed a low likelihood of uptake of the sustainable menstrual products due to lack of knowledge. From a thematic analysis taken from a focus group of young women showed that there was a lot of uncertainty, nervousness, and lack of confidence. The major findings from this study were the need for training and education about the products that are available for young women. This helps them make a well-balanced and well-informed decision about their choice of product. A general conclusion is that there is a gap in young women’s knowledge about sustainable menstrual products, instruction on how to use them and where to get them. A recommendation for this study is to extend the focus groups to all years groups at the chosen high school to see there are any patterns or commonalities throughout the different age groups.