Periods are a natural process that girls and women need to feel empowered to talk openly about, and yet this aspect of health is still often seen as a taboo subject.

The onset of menstruation is both a physiological and psychological milestone in a woman’s reproductive life. Most girls will have their first period between the ages of 11 and 14, and their periods will continue regularly (usually monthly) until the menopause, which occurs around the age of 51 years in the UK. On average, women have periods for around 40 years of their life, and therefore, menstrual health forms an integral part of wellbeing. 

This event will guide you through everything you need to know about menstruation including what a menstrual cycle is, irregular periods and the many period products available.

Everyone should be comfortable to talk about periods, in order to better understand what is normal, and what may need further investigation.

You can watch our short film on first periods here.

About the Speakers

Dr Marilyn Graham is a full time NHS GP in South London, mother of 4 and Bell House volunteer.

Omome Etomi is a GP Trainee in South London. She is originally from Nigeria and studied at the University of Southampton

Zoe Miller is a local young entrepreneur who set up BB pads in 2020 She has a line of sustainable, plastic-free, biodegradable, reusable period pads.