Perceptions and experiences of menstrual pain among Middle Eastern women living in Australia

The understanding and management of menstrual symptoms, including period pain, is informed by social, cultural and religious beliefs and practices. Much previous work on menstrual management in Australia has focused on Caucasian women. This study aimed to address this gap by exploring how cultural and religious discourses and practices impact on the knowledge, diagnosis and management of menstrual pain among Middle Eastern women living in Australia using a combination of cross-sectional survey and focus group data. A total of 75 survey respondents, and 12 focus group participants from Middle Eastern backgrounds, aged between 18 and 45, participated in the study. Thematic analysis found menstruation a taboo topic even for second-generation participants, with negative implications for experiences of menarche and menstrual literacy, often leading to difficulties with menstrual management. Cultural discourse surrounding premarital virginity impacted some women's understanding of menstrual disorders, limited the types of menstrual products used, and influenced treatment types to manage period pain. Women drew on a range of contemporary and culturally prescribed self-management strategies, including over the counter medications, heat, and traditional herbs. Increasing awareness of period pain through co-designed, culturally sensitive menstrual health promotion activities is crucial.