A school in Cambridgeshire which would not authorise sick days related to period pain unless supplied with medical evidence has reversed its policy.
Endometriosis UK welcomes the news that the policy has been reversed but says that this “clearly highlights the urgent need for greater awareness of menstrual health conditions and the need to listen to young people who may be experiencing symptoms”.
Endometriosis UK has written to the Headteacher of the school, supplying information on menstrual health conditions and providing information and resources to support them create a more period friendly school.
Jo Campion, Senior Policy Adviser at Endometriosis UK said: “Period pain that impacts day to day life, including causing absences from school, can be a symptom of endometriosis and other menstrual health conditions, and must be taken seriously. All schools should be delivering age-appropriate menstrual health education to all pupils as part of compulsory health education covered in the National Curriculum. We would urge all schools to improve their awareness of menstrual health conditions so they can make sure all their students are well supported.”
Earlier this year, Endometriosis UK and Menstrual Cycle Support launched a specially designed resource called Menstrual Cycle Support for Teens, to give teenagers the understanding and language they need to seek appropriate help.
If you, or someone you know, is experiencing symptoms, such as chronic pelvic pain, period pain that interferes with day to day activities or painful bowel and bladder movements, we recommend you seek medical help and check out Endometriosis UK’s symptom checker.
For further information, contact communications@endometriosis-uk.org
