Experiences, perceptions and barriers to use of reusable menstrual products among university students globally: a
Emma Johnson1, Lydia Seed2, Ashna Biju2
1University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge, UK ecj43@cam.ac.uk.
Background:
Reusable menstrual products have gained increasing attention for their environmental and economic benefits, yet their uptake remains limited. University students represent a key demographic for understanding uptake, as young adults forming lifelong menstrual hygiene habits.
Objectives:
To synthesise evidence on university students' knowledge, usage patterns and perceptions of reusable menstrual products, and identify barriers and facilitators to their adoption, to inform future interventions and educational efforts.
Search Strategy:
A systematic search of Medline, Embase, Scopus and Global Health was conducted, last updated on 31 October 2024.
Selection Criteria:
Eligible studies contain data on perceptions of reusable menstrual products, specifically of students in university or higher education, or including segregated data on this population. Qualitative, quantitative and mixed-methods studies were included.
Data Collection And Analysis:
Two independent reviewers screened studies, extracted data and assessed methodological quality. All data were summarised descriptively.
Results:
10 studies (4721 participants) across multiple countries were included. Findings suggest that while reusable menstrual products are viewed by some as cost-effective and sustainable, barriers include concerns relating to practical usage and health, limited awareness, misconceptions and cultural taboos. In the university context, peer influence, financial constraints and sociocultural factors play a significant role in shaping product choices.
Conclusions:
Targeted education to increase awareness and address practical concerns and misconceptions, alongside peer support and provision of reusable menstrual products, could significantly enhance the adoption of reusable menstrual products in university settings. Further research into the health impacts of these products would support educational interventions.
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