“My Vital Cycles”: Results from a research project in teaching holistic ovulatory menstrual health literacy using the WHO’s Health Promoting School framework.
Felicity Roux1 1Curtin University – School Of Population Health, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
Abstract
Evidence points to a high prevalence of female adolescents affected by period pains, heavy bleeding, irregularities and/or mood swings. These are associated with absenteeism, reduced academic performance and mental health challenges such as non-suicidal self-injury, eating disorders and poor body image. There are insufficient teacher training and evidence-based menstrual education programs. Reliance on external facilitators further fails to build school capacity.
A research project at Curtin University developed and trialed a school-based holistic ovulatory menstrual (OM) health literacy program and questionnaire. A Delphi Panel of 35 experts in education and health informed development, followed by face validation by 28 girls, five mothers, 14 teachers and six school healthcare professionals. A test-retest in four schools validated the OM health literacy questionnaire.
A mixed-methods single-arm quasi-experimental design was used to trial My Vital Cycles® in the Year 9 Health curriculum in one single-sex school in Perth WA for 16 weeks. Using the WHO’s Health Promoting School framework, it engaged parents, teachers, nurses, psychologists and 35 medical students. Applying strengths-based principles, the cycle was positively framed as a ‘vital sign’ to monitor personal health whilst realistically addressing dysfunctions. My Vital Cycles® holistic approach combined mental health and menstrual wellbeing.
The post-program OM health literacy scores of 94 students improved from pre-program testing. A significant improvement in mood (p<0.05) was observed. Focus groups with 18 girls indicated reduced stigma; discovering new information; and appreciation of a whole school approach. My Vital Cycles® won two Curtinnovation Awards: Teaching & Learning and People’s Choice.
Biography
Biography has been extended to 150 words to justify nomination of Innovator / Early Career researcher award