Menstrual Health

Not everyone who menstruates is a woman, and not all women menstruate.

The dispensers are not in bathrooms because the MHPs are available to everyone, no matter their gender identity. 

Maxi pads (generic) with adhesive strip and no wings:

Tampax regular absorbency tampons (unscented, cardboard applicator)  

Menstruation is the shedding of the lining of the uterus. People typically bleed once a month for about 3-7 days. A menstruating person may notice cramps, bloating, headache, and acne, among other symptoms. 

There is no such thing as a normal period. They can change from month to month and from person to person. Diet, exercise, stress, birth control, travel, or changes in routine can all cause changes in your menstrual cycle.  

PMS or premenstrual syndrome is a combination of symptoms people get in the days leading up to their period. There are some physical symptoms such as bloating or headaches and some emotional symptoms such as irritability or food cravings. Symptoms differ from person to person and from month to month. 

The uterus needs to contract to expel its lining. That motion is typically what causes cramps. Exercise, hot pads, and over the counter pain relievers can typically relieve some of the cramping pain. If your pain is intense, please make an appointment at health services or with your doctor. 

While you are less likely to get pregnant while menstruating, it is still possible especially if you are not using contraception.  

Different tampon sizes are related to the heaviness of the flow. One may use a “super” tampon in the first few days of their period when the flow is heavier, and then switch to a “lite” tampon later, once the flow decreases. 

Some birth controls do prevent monthly menstruation. Speak with your doctor or book an appointment at health services to discuss which birth control options are best for you.