the idea with the pilot program is to educate all teenagers about what is normal and to decrease the myths and taboos around menstruation.
the project is funded by a grant from the
michael smith foundation for health research
, and the reason b.c. women’s chose new westminster was because the school district was the first to introduce free menstrual products in schools.
“so we thought this is a progressive school board that is open and willing to discuss menstruation and so we approached them as a partner in this project and they were very enthusiastic,” said allaire.
the one-hour interactive session focuses on different topics and provides education for young people to track their symptoms and empower them to seek help.
endometriosis, a condition where endometrial cells, which line the inside of the uterus, grow on other pelvic organs, such as the ovaries or fallopian tubes. these cells wind up in the pelvic cavity and respond to hormones in a similar way to endometrial cells and cause inflammation and pain, potentially scar tissue, cysts, and infertility, all of which can have serious impacts on a person’s quality of life.
“it can have devastating pain symptoms which can affect a woman’s ability to function, and to reach their full potential, especially when if it starts in the teenage years,” said allaire.