[Perception of the first menstruation]

598 adult women of 15 to 49 years of age and 214 young girls (aged 12 to 18) were included in the Berlin study of menstrual attitudes and behaviour. The methodical procedure relating to the evolving of the questionnaire and the concept of the study are described, followed by informative special aspects of the findings. This contribution focuses on the way in which women cope with menarche in relation to their experiences in other fields of intimacy and taboo, as well as on sex education. practiced sexuality, contraception, and later attitudes towards menstruation. Individual differences of attitudes and differences among generations are causes of women's different reactions to the monthly period. We define three different types of menstrual behaviour relevant to clinical practice and describe differently successful ways of coping with and mastering menstruation. We discuss indications, concepts and the extent of gynaecological advice and counselling required for young women as far as this particular part of female intimacy is concerned, which is still taboo in some respects. Suggestions based on medical psychology are given to stimulate gynaecological practice.