In this episode of Periodically, hosts Felicity and Josie engage in an enlightening discussion with guests Liv and Lauren from the SASHA Society (Students Against Sexual Harassment and Assault), about the work that SASHA does and how they campaign for change at the University of Leeds.

Liv and Lauren, also share their personal experiences of living with endometriosis and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), the struggles they faced in receiving accurate diagnosis and the impacts on their everyday lives and studies.

They touch on the stigma associated with periods, the lack of sufficient medical support, and the need for more research and awareness. The conversation also delves into the importance of community support and the need for societal change in understanding and acknowledging the severity of these conditions.

Find out more about SASHA here.

(1:05) SASHA Society
(1:57) Liv and Lauren's journey with menstrual health
(11:28) Navigating university life
(13:05) Breaking the stigma
(18:06) Looking towards the future

About the hosts:

Felicity: Hi, I’m Felicity and I’m a third-year chemist studying at Lady Margaret Hall. I’ve always found the taboo surrounding periods really frustrating, so I have loved having open conversations about the impact of our periods and learning about all our different experiences!

Josie: Hi, I’m Josie and I’m a third-year at Exeter. This podcast has been such a great experience! I have loved meeting people who are just as passionate about raising awareness of the issues that arise from having periods whilst studying. I think this podcast is a great step in the right direction for reducing the stigma around periods.

We'd like to thank the RSC Inclusion and Diversity Fund, the University of Oxford Chemistry Department, and the EPSRC-funded OxICFM CDT for supporting the podcast.