Best practices for menstrual health in fieldwork
Ensuring menstrual equity and comfort during fieldwork is essential for fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. Below are best practices to help manage menstrual health effectively and sensitively:
1. Use the right words
Don’t trivialise the issue with euphemisms like “Time of the month” or “Aunt Flow.” Use clear and accurate language: we menstruate and discharge blood and tissue from our vaginas. Ensure access to tampons, pads, menstrual cups, and sometimes indoor plumbing.
2. Risk assessments
Incorporate menstrual health into risk assessments. Include a menstrual health briefing (focusing on health, not just hygiene) and plan to acquire and make accessible a field menstrual kit. If possible, have a “Going with the flow” trained team member deliver up-to-date training alongside the exhibition to help team members choose appropriate tools.
3. Take a field kit with you
Field kits are being developed by the Period Dignity team at Glasgow University and will be accessible to all staff running fieldwork. For external teams, plan to take a selection of absorbency tampons and pads, wet wipes, additional water and disposal bags. Remember, medication like paracetamol cannot be provided to students.
4. Never assume
Avoid assuming that any team member can talk about menstrual health based on their appearance. Brief everyone, as personal and cultural obstacles may exist. Don't make assumptions about gender and the need for information. Educate everyone on modern approaches to menstrual health, as many may not be familiar with menstrual cups or female urinary devices.
5. Put the Men in Menstruation
Many people have experience with menstruation through family members. Ensure staff and students feel comfortable approaching any member of the teaching team for support. Menstrual health discussions should not be left to female staff alone; this benefits everyone, including those with chronic conditions or special needs.
We are developing best practice downloads, kit lists, and a video, which will be available at
These resources will be free, and you can reach out to us for details about the Bloody Fieldwork exhibition and future training plans.