Posts on social media and several surveys underscore just how pervasive the knowledge void is. A 2016 survey suggested that women of reproductive age also had notable gaps in their understanding of the menstrual cycle. The problem is partly rooted in the quality and depth of sex and health education in schools, which varies dramatically from state to state, Dr. Bobel said. In the fall, Washington, D.C., will become the first jurisdiction in the country to roll out mandatory, standardized classes on menstrual health starting in the fourth grade. In Florida, a new bill limiting education around the menstrual cycle for certain age groups will go into effect on July 1.

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Persons: Tampax, Chris Bobel, Bobel, Ed, “, she’s, ”, Jennifer Lincoln, ” “ Organizations: University of Massachusetts, D.C Locations: University of Massachusetts Boston, Washington, Florida