Fourth Annual Conference of the Menstruation Research Network (UK)
Menstruation: Dignity, Health, and Inequalities
Wednesday 28th and Thursday 29th May 2025
University of East London
The 2025 Menstruation Research Network Conference explored the vital theme of Dignity, Health, and Inequalities, focusing on how social, cultural, and economic disparities shape menstrual experiences. This interdisciplinary event brought together voices from across sectors to share insights, discuss challenges, and generate innovative solutions for addressing poor menstrual health and equity in both the Global North and the South.
Dignity in menstruation goes beyond access to products—it’s about tackling the ways stigma and exclusion erode agency and limit opportunities. For millions worldwide, menstruation remains surrounded by misinformation and silence, affecting not only personal experiences but also broader social and economic outcomes. From underdiagnosed conditions like endometriosis and anaemia to the environmental challenges of menstrual waste and the societal restrictions that hinder full participation in both public and private life, this conference seeks to unpack these interconnected issues and foster approaches that advance equity and inclusion.
Building on the success of previous years, the conference featured plenary sessions, poster presentations, workshops, and roundtable discussions designed to espouse collaboration and interdisciplinary dialogue. Special sessions like creative showcases and an open forum offered dynamic spaces for innovative ideas and diverse perspectives.
Researchers, healthcare professionals, advocates, policymakers, educators, artists, or students were invited to join us in shaping the conversation and driving change toward a future where menstruation is fully understood, valued, and free from stigma.
Contributions were invited from:
- Researchers (including humanities researchers) and academics
- Public policy advocates
- Public health educators
- Students and early-career professionals
- Healthcare professionals and clinicians
- NGOs and international agencies
- Writers, artists, and activists
Topics for consideration:
- Menstrual Dignity: Tackling stigma, misinformation, and societal taboos.
- Menstrual Inequality: Disparities in resources, opportunities, and support.
- Sustainable Menstrual Practices: Environmental, social, and economic considerations.
- The Menstrual Cycle: Experiences across life stages, from menarche to menopause.
- Global Perspectives on Menstruation: Sharing of insights and practices between the Global North and South.
- Menstrual Health and Illness: Physical and mental health aspects of menstruation, including reproductive health, anaemia, and related conditions.
- Menstrual Activism: Efforts to create change through advocacy and action.
- Inclusive Menstrual Policies: Policies and practices that reflect diverse needs.
- In addition to these session themes, submissions are also welcome for:
- Menstrual Literacy and Education: Posters/videos competition promoting body literacy and awareness.
- Interactive Stalls and Activities: Proposals for break-time engagement, such as sustainable product demonstrations, advocacy campaigns, creative art displays, or networking hubs.
Call for submissions:
Contributions were invited for presentations, workshops, and creative showcases related to the conference themes.
The Submission Period is Now Closed