Become a Skilled Practitioner with the Menstrual Health and Hygiene Diploma
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Menstrual Health and Hygiene is a comprehensive course designed to provide learners with essential knowledge and practical skills in menstrual health management. The programme covers the biological, psychological, and social aspects of menstruation, aiming to enhance understanding and promote safe, hygienic practices. Learners will explore topics such as the menstrual cycle, common disorders, hygiene management, and the impact of nutrition and lifestyle on menstrual health. This course is not Ofqual regulated, but it is structured to meet professional learning standards and provide actionable, real-world insights.
Throughout the course, participants gain practical skills to support menstrual health education, awareness, and management in various contexts. Emphasis is placed on recognising menstrual disorders, addressing myths and taboos, and promoting hygiene and self-care strategies. The curriculum also covers communication skills for supporting women and girls, as well as practical guidance for caregivers and professionals. Learners will engage with case studies, applied scenarios, and ethical considerations, ensuring both theoretical understanding and practical application. The diploma aligns with recognised professional certifications and diplomas in health, wellness, and reproductive health fields.
OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Menstrual Health and Hygiene provides a structured learning experience suitable for healthcare workers, educators, community facilitators, and individuals interested in promoting menstrual health and wellbeing. The course balances theory with practical application, offering clear strategies to enhance knowledge, confidence, and professional credibility. On completion, learners will be equipped to educate, support, and empower women and girls in managing menstrual health safely and effectively, while complementing existing professional certifications and diplomas in health, hygiene, and wellness-focused roles.
Study Units
- Anatomy and Physiology of the Female Reproductive System (3 hours)
- Understanding the Menstrual Cycle and Hormonal Changes (3 hours)
- Menstrual Hygiene Products: Types, Usage, and Disposal (6 hours)
- Menstrual Hygiene Management: Best Practices and Safety (4 hours)
- Menstrual Disorders: Identification, Causes, and Management (5 hours)
- Pain Relief and Supportive Strategies During Menstruation (3 hours)
- Menstruation and Mental Health (3 hours)
- Cultural Beliefs, Myths, and Social Stigma (3 hours)
Entry Requirements
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Menstrual Health and Hygiene is designed to be accessible while ensuring learners can engage effectively with the course content. To maximise learning outcomes, the following entry requirements are recommended:
- Age Requirement: Learners should be at least 18 years old at the time of enrolment to ensure maturity and readiness for professional-level learning.
- Educational Background: A basic educational foundation is required. Learners with related diplomas or certificates—such as health education, nursing, counselling, reproductive health, midwifery, or wellbeing—may find it easier to engage with the course material and apply it in professional or community settings.
- Language Proficiency: As the course is delivered in English, learners should have sufficient reading and comprehension skills to fully engage with learning materials, case studies, and assessments.
While prior work experience in healthcare, education, community health, or women’s health roles is advantageous, it is not mandatory. These entry requirements are designed to create an inclusive learning environment while ensuring participants can effectively understand and apply the knowledge and skills gained from the course.
Learning Outcomes
Anatomy and Physiology of the Female Reproductive System (3 Hours)
- Identify the main organs of the female reproductive system and their functions
- Understand the biological processes involved in menstruation
- Explain how reproductive anatomy influences menstrual health
- Recognise the interconnection between reproductive health and overall wellbeing
- Develop foundational knowledge to support menstrual education and awareness
Understanding the Menstrual Cycle and Hormonal Changes (3 Hours)
- Describe the phases of the menstrual cycle and associated hormonal fluctuations
- Recognise physical and emotional changes during each phase
- Understand the role of hormones in reproductive health and menstrual regulation
- Learn how hormonal variations impact mood, energy, and physical health
- Gain insight into normal versus irregular menstrual patterns
Menstrual Hygiene Products: Types, Usage, and Disposal (6 Hours)
- Identify different types of menstrual hygiene products and their appropriate usage
- Compare benefits and limitations of disposable and reusable products
- Understand safe and environmentally responsible disposal methods
- Learn proper handling and storage of menstrual products
- Explore practical strategies for choosing suitable products for different needs
Menstrual Hygiene Management: Best Practices and Safety (4 Hours)
- Apply safe hygiene practices to prevent infections and discomfort
- Understand the importance of clean water, sanitation, and privacy in menstrual care
- Promote safe product handling and storage techniques
- Learn the role of hygiene education in schools, communities, and workplaces
- Develop strategies to support consistent and safe menstrual practices
Menstrual Disorders: Identification, Causes, and Management (5 Hours)
- Recognise symptoms of common menstrual disorders such as dysmenorrhoea, menorrhagia, and amenorrhoea
- Understand potential causes and health implications of irregular menstrual patterns
- Explore basic management strategies for menstrual issues
- Emphasise the importance of medical consultation for persistent or severe symptoms
- Gain knowledge to provide informed guidance and support
Pain Relief and Supportive Strategies During Menstruation (3 Hours)
- Identify non-medical and medical approaches to managing menstrual pain
- Understand the role of physical activity, diet, and rest in reducing discomfort
- Promote holistic methods for improving menstrual wellbeing
- Explore relaxation and mindfulness techniques for symptom relief
- Develop practical strategies to support women during menstruation
Menstruation and Mental Health (3 Hours)
- Understand the psychological impact of menstruation and hormonal changes
- Recognise symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
- Explore strategies to support emotional wellbeing during the menstrual cycle
- Learn approaches to improve mood, stress management, and resilience
- Develop awareness of mental health considerations linked to menstruation
Cultural Beliefs, Myths, and Social Stigma (3 Hours)
- Identify common cultural beliefs, taboos, and misconceptions surrounding menstruation
- Understand how stigma affects menstrual health education and access to products
- Develop culturally sensitive approaches to raise awareness and promote open dialogue
- Learn strategies to challenge myths and support inclusive education
- Promote community engagement and advocacy for menstrual health rights
Target Audience
The OSHAA 30-Hours Professional Diploma in Menstrual Health and Hygiene is ideal for individuals who want to gain in-depth knowledge and practical skills to support menstrual health and promote hygiene awareness. It is designed for learners looking to enhance their professional practice, educate others, or improve personal understanding of menstrual wellbeing.
Healthcare and Medical Professionals
- Nurses and midwives working with women and adolescent girls
- Doctors specialising in gynecology or reproductive health
- Community health workers supporting menstrual health initiatives
- Health educators in clinics, hospitals, or outreach programs
- Professionals aiming to provide safe and informed guidance on menstrual care
Educators and School Staff
- Teachers delivering health and wellbeing education
- School counsellors supporting adolescent development
- Youth programme facilitators addressing puberty and menstrual health
- Education coordinators integrating hygiene awareness into curriculum
- Staff responsible for providing safe and supportive environments for students
Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers
- Parents seeking accurate knowledge to guide children through puberty
- Guardians managing menstrual hygiene for dependents
- Caregivers supporting adolescents with menstrual challenges
- Family members promoting healthy hygiene habits
- Individuals aiming to empower children and teenagers with education and awareness
Community and Social Workers
- Professionals running community health awareness programmes
- NGOs focused on women’s health and hygiene advocacy
- Social workers supporting underserved or vulnerable populations
- Facilitators providing workshops or counselling on menstrual health
- Advocates aiming to reduce stigma and improve access to hygiene resources
This course offers a structured and inclusive learning experience, equipping learners with the skills and confidence to educate, support, and empower women and girls in menstrual health management, while complementing professional credentials in healthcare, education, and community support.
