Writing your diploma thesis and you're on your period? Honestly, it's not easy.
Menstruation is a completely natural part of life, but it remains an overlooked topic at universities. Yet, for many women, their student years are a time when they first intensely experience menstrual problems while balancing their studies, part-time jobs, and a limited budget.
For some students, menstruation may only mean minor discomfort. For others, however, it brings pain, exhaustion, shame, and the inability to afford basic hygiene products. And when the university environment is unsupportive, the impact on health, self-esteem, and academic results is immense.
Why universities should address the issue
Our own research at Femvie showed that 86% of women experience menstruation unexpectedly during their studies – often in the middle of lectures, exams, or sports activities. 62% had to leave class due to missing intimate hygiene products to buy them or even go home from school. This is not just discomfort. This is a disruption of the educational process and equal access to education.
Student health is not a fringe issue. The menstrual cycle affects concentration, energy, sleep, and mental well-being. Conditions like endometriosis and PCOS often remain undiagnosed, further increasing the pressure on students.
Period poverty on campuses
Life in a dorm or city is already expensive. Adding hygiene products, which are still not considered a basic necessity, is an insurmountable problem for some students. Period poverty – the inability to afford or secure safe products – then leads to improvised and risky solutions, missed classes, and social exclusion.
How students truly experience it
"During my state exams, I had such severe cramps that I had to ask for a deferment. I felt incapable and ashamed because such things are not talked about at school at all," an anonymous student from our Femvie community shared.
We hear hundreds of such stories. And yet, a solution exists, and it's sustainable too.
What universities can do today
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Free and sustainable menstrual products in restrooms, libraries, or sports facilities
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Training and awareness for educators and student associations, so the topic is not taboo
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Safe and inclusive spaces
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Mental health support and the possibility of sharing menstrual problems, without shame or stress
How Femvie helps
At Femvie, we believe that menstrual health is a basic right. That's why we have created a model of cooperation with universities and schools, which includes:
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supply of organic tampons, pads, panty liners and others made of certified organic cotton (plastic and chemical-free)
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educational and awareness programs – workshops and educational materials for students and teachers,
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connection with experts and the community in the form of panels and lectures
Our vision is a menstruation-friendly university environment where students don't have to choose between attending class and managing their cycle.
How to get involved
If you are a student, you can:
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contact your student union and demand better product availability, connect with Femvie - hello@femvie.com
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share your story and help break the stigma - @femvieorganic we listen
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join initiatives like Femvie and push the change forward.
If you represent a university, let us know. We'll be happy to show you how simple and effective it is to integrate menstrual health care into your institution. Plus, we consider sustainability - a long-term solution, not more plastic.
👉 At Femvie, we are changing the way menstruation is talked about and cared for – in schools, businesses, and public institutions. Join us.
Femvie products that can help you
We have selected products that are related to this topic and can support your health:
- 🌿 Organic pads — certified organic pads without chemicals
- 🌿 Organic tampons — organic tampons made from certified organic cotton
- 💊 Magnesium — helps relieve cramps and tension before menstruation
- 🩹 Menstrual patches — natural relief from painful menstruation
- 📦 Carefree subscription — your organic menstrual products automatically every month
Frequently asked questions
How long does a normal period last?
A healthy period lasts 3 to 7 days. If you bleed longer or for a shorter period repeatedly, consult a gynecologist.
Why is menstruation painful?
Menstrual cramps are caused by prostaglandins — substances that contract the uterine muscles. Magnesium, heat, exercise, or natural patches can help.
Are organic pads and tampons safer?
Yes. Organic cotton products do not contain pesticides, plastics, or bleaching chemicals commonly found in conventional menstrual products.
What affects the regularity of the menstrual cycle?
Stress, diet, exercise, sleep, and hormonal balance — all these affect the length and regularity of the cycle. Tracking your cycle will help you identify patterns and any deviations.
