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.

Menstrual health training levels

Our training program is structured into three progressive levels: Bronze, Silver and Gold, to build participants’ understanding and skills in managing menstrual health challenges in outdoor, field and lab environments.

Each level provides progressively deeper engagement with menstrual health topics, beginning with basic awareness at the Bronze level and advancing to the Gold level. This structured approach ensures that participants can select their level according to their requirements and time constraints and allowing them to grow their knowledge and confidence in creating inclusive and supportive spaces for individuals assigned female at birth (FAB).

Bronze Level (Basic Awareness)

  • Understand the basics of menstrual health and hygiene.
  • Gain familiarity with a variety of menstrual products (e.g., pads, tampons, menstrual cups) and their applications.
  • Recognise the importance of inclusive language and breaking down stigma around menstruation.
  • Acknowledge menstrual challenges in unusual environments (e.g. lab spaces, outdoor and field environments).
  • Know where to access additional resources and support.

Silver Level (Intermediate Training)

In addition to the Bronze Level:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of different menstrual health management solutions, including portable facilities and waste disposal methods.
  • Discuss common menstrual conditions (e.g. endometriosis) and their impact on outdoor activities or lab work.
  • Develop strategies for creating inclusive and supportive environments during teaching, fieldwork or group activities.
  • Engage in discussions about menstrual health challenges in outdoor settings and suggest practical solutions.
  • Collaborate with peers to identify adjustments or accommodations that can improve participation and comfort.

Gold Level (Advanced Training)

In addition to Silver Level:

  • Deep understanding of menstrual health, including conditions like PCOS, endometriosis and amenorrhea, and how these may affect individuals in the field or lab.
  • Plan, implement and evaluate practical adjustments to support menstrual health in diverse environments (e.g., field courses, outdoor trips, lab spaces).
  • Facilitate discussions and training sessions on menstrual health and inclusivity, fostering open dialogue across teams and societies.
  • Analyse complex scenarios, such as emergencies or extended field trips, and develop comprehensive plans to address menstrual health needs.
  • Serve as a resource and advocate within your community, promoting a culture of inclusion and awareness around menstrual health challenges.