Menstruation

Menstruation is a natural monthly process of the uterus shedding its lining when no pregnancy occurs. The average cycle is every 28 days, lasting for 3-5 days.

Cervix

Cervix locates at the lower part of the uterus, connecting to the vagina. During menstruation, the cervix would be firmer and in a lower position than non-menstrual period.

Vagina

Vagina is the elastic muscular part of the female genital that serves as the channel of menstrual blood, childbirth, and penetrative sex. Vagina is also where menstrual cups or tampons are placed.

Hymen

The hymen is a membrane at the vaginal opening, which naturally contains holes instead of fully closed. It may or may not tear under circumstances of exercise, sexual activities and medical examination etc. depending on individual physique.

Menstrual cup

Menstrual cup is a menstrual product that functions by collecting menstrual blood while placed in the vagina. They are usually made of medical grade silicone and could be reused for years when properly cleaned and handled.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual syndrome refers to a variety of symptoms menstruators may experience before their menstruation. Examples include back pain, acnes, tiredness, mood swings, constipation or diarrhoea etc.

Menstrual Leave

Menstrual leave is a type of paid or unpaid leave where menstruator may opt for when needed. There is currently no legal policy dealing with menstrual leave in Hong Kong.

Menstruators

Menstruators refers to anyone who menstruates regardless of gender.

Period Poverty

Period poverty refers to scarcity of menstrual products due to financial factors, leading to problems such as limited frequency on changing for clean menstrual products, lacking hygienic menstrual products, and subsequent health and social impacts.

Menstrual Hygiene Day (MHD)

MHD is an annual awareness day every May 28 to highlight the importance of good menstrual hygiene. The date is to represent the average menstrual duration of 5 days (hence May) and menstrual cycle of 28 days.