Help improve how young people, their families and healthcare professionals communicate about menstrual health.

Do you have experience of (or support a family member with) heavy/irregular periods, severe period pain, endometriosis, and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Researchers at Cardiff University are creating a new way to help young people, their families and healthcare professionals talk more openly about menstrual health.  The aim is to make sure young people in secondary school can get the right help and support for conditions such as:

• Heavy or irregular periods
• Severe period pain
• Endometriosis
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

What experience do I need to help?

• Lived experience of menstrual health issues as a young person (such as heavy or irregular periods, severe period pain, endometriosis, PCOS) (we would like to hear from young people aged 16 or over with experience of menstrual health issues as well as an adult who has supported someone).
• Experience of supporting someone (a family member, friend, or young person) with these issues
• Willingness to give feedback on documents or project plans
• Ability to communicate with researchers via email, phone, and in meetings

What will I be asked to do?

• Join meetings every three months with the research team
• Share your views, ideas, and experiences about menstrual health
• Read and comment on draft documents or materials
• Help decide how the project is planned and delivered
• Advise on making materials clear and accessible
• Represent the views of young people and/or parents
• Keep project information confidential

How long will I be needed for?

• Meetings every three months (about two hours each)
• One to two hours of reading/preparation before each meeting
• Occasional feedback by email between meetings
• The project is expected to run for two years, starting April 2026 (if funded).

What are some of the benefits for me?

• Opportunity to shape research in an area you care about
• Chance to share your lived experience to help others
• Learn more about how research is designed and carried out
• Build skills in communication, teamwork, and decision-making
• Work alongside researchers and other public contributors
• Be part of improving support for young people with menstrual health issues

 What support is offered?

• Cover reasonable travel expenses and additional carer or childcare costs,
• Offer payment for time of £25.00 per hour (people can request less if they are in receipt of state benefits). 

 Have a look at our guidelines for more information about this. 

If you are receiving any benefits, you can access confidential advice from the Benefits Advice Service for Involvement. 

Please complete the form below