For #SHW24 we’re exploring the links between mental health and sexual health. In this blog, Brook’s Data and Insights Team – Dr Tristin Agtarap and Jessica Winters – share early research findings about the connection between menstruation, contraceptive use, and wellbeing.
Menstruation and contraception are key topics in Relationships and Sex Education (RSE). Typically, these discussions focus on the practical aspects—menstruation[1] as a sign of fertility and contraceptives as tools for pregnancy prevention. While these are essential points, the emotional and wellbeing aspect of RSE is often overlooked or minimised. At Brook, we believe that a holistic approach to sexual health must prioritise both practical knowledge and emotional understanding.
To contribute to this, Brook’s Data and Insights Team, Dr Tristin Agtarap and Jessica Winters, analysed over 300 survey responses to explore the connection between menstruation, contraceptive use, and wellbeing.
The findings overwhelmingly highlight that the ability to choose led to menstrual and contraceptive empowerment and positive wellbeing.
Research Development and Objectives
To ensure inclusivity and amplify the voices often overlooked in menstrual and sexual health research, the survey was open to all individuals who menstruate.
Our research aimed to examine the impact that specific menstrual products and contraceptive methods had on participants bodily empowerment, awareness and control. The study was approved by Brunel University London’s Ethics Committee.
A total of 346 participants aged 18-44 took part in the survey, including 332 women, 11 non-binary people , and 2 trans men. All participants resided in the United Kingdom.
Emerging Findings
By-and-large, our data shows that menstrual and contraceptive empowerment stems from having the freedom to choose preferred menstrual products or contraceptive methods. Respondents reported that by having the option to choose what works for them, they felt more control over their body:
I like having the freedom to choose. It also depends on how heavy my period is and what activities I have planned”
Contraceptive methods in general give me more authority of my own body. I can choose to avoid pregnancy. Recently I had been discussing with my partner about male contraceptive methods. I think it will feel more empowering when me, as a woman, does not have to be burdened with the invasive contraceptive methods since we’ve already been burdened with the pregnancy risk.”
A significant finding was the link between contraceptive methods, menstruation and gender dysphoria. Nearly one-third (31%) of our gender minority participants reported feeling dysphoria when reflecting on menstrual product and contraceptive use. For these individuals, having the option to choose menstrual products or contraceptive methods that alleviate their discomfort was crucial:
I use boxer short style period pants which helps with the dysphoria.”
For my gender dysphoria, using menstruation products can exacerbate it, so I often will… just fold up toilet paper and swap it out each time… this makes me feel better for some reason (pads do not make me feel better in the same way).”
Due to contraception, I no longer have a period, which has significantly improved my life.”
Overall, our findings highlight that menstrual and contraceptive empowerment is deeply personal – rooted in autonomy, knowledge, and the freedom to make choices that support both physical and emotional wellbeing.
Whether it’s the confidence gained from selecting products or contraceptive methods which align with one’s comfort, or the sense of control achieved by managing menstruation and understanding one’s body, the ability to make informed decisions has a profound impact. Additionally, for participants who identified as trans or non-binary, the flexibility to choose products or contraceptive methods which ease dysphoria highlights the critical need for inclusive, sensitive options in menstrual and reproductive health. These insights underscore the importance of supporting diverse experiences and ensuring that individuals feel both informed and empowered in their decisions.
What’s next?
Over the coming months, we will be analysing this data further to identify other findings which can be used to support Brook’s ongoing efforts to shape sexual health policy and practice.
By ensuring comprehensive RSE, which provides young people with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their menstrual and contraceptive choices, we can help young people feel empowered, confident and in control of their health and wellbeing.
At Brook we are consistently informing our practices and educational tools through evidence-based research:
- Brook’s Contraception Tool supports young people to explore all their contraceptive options including methods that help with heavy menstrual bleeding.
- Brook’s Period Product Guide describes the different options available to use during menstruation, highlighting the pros and cons of each product.
- Delivery of lessons to people of all genders about periods and period products in order to increase understanding, tackle stigma, shame and embarrassment, and ensure period dignity.
- Delivery of lessons about contraception and how it can help manage periods, and how to access a local sexual health service to increase knowledge and engender confidence.
Brook’s research, clinical and education services are committed to amplifying the voices of those who are often left out of the conversation, ensuring that our work reflects the diverse needs of all individuals. In doing so, we hope to build a future where both the physical and mental wellbeing aspects of sexual and reproductive health are fully integrated into education, policy, and practice.
[1] There are lots of different ways of talking about menstruation. Some people might talk about periods, or use more euphemistic language such ‘time of the month’. In our education work with young people, we usually use the word periods to describe the process of menstruation. In this piece of research, we used the term menstruation. We will be using this term throughout the blog.
