The state is expanding its Free Period Products in Schools initiative with free pelvic pain and menstrual health education for years 5–10 students from next year.
Sexual Health Victoria will deliver the pelvic pain and menstrual health education program, aiming to reach 400 government schools by 2027.
The education sessions will help students develop the skills and confidence to recognise when and how to seek help and support.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas said that the program helps to “destigmatise and remove the shame women and girls have long been taught to feel about their bodies.”
The sessions will also cover endometriosis and other conditions that can cause pelvic pain – many of which are only diagnosed after significant delays.
By teaching young Victorians about these conditions at the right time, the state aims to promote early detection and treatment.
The program delivered by Sexual Health Victoria also includes resources and development sessions for school staff, to build knowledge and confidence to support students with pelvic pain, including referring to support services.
The education program comes in addition to a pilot program currently underway to provide students with reusable period underwear.
The trial expands upon the Free Period Products in Schools program that launched in 2019 and aims to determine whether providing reusable period underwear is feasible for schools and could be useful for students.
An Australian study indicated that 21 per cent of young people between the ages of 15 and 19 experience severe pelvic pain during their periods.
