Question to the Department for Education:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have changed, or are considering or planning to change, guidance to schools stating that key facts about the menstrual cycle should not be taught before year 4.

Pupils learn the facts about menstrual and reproductive health as part of compulsory relationships, sex and health education (RSHE). In July 2025, we updated the RSHE statutory guidance and the new curriculum came into force in September 2026.

The RSHE guidance is clear that facts about menstruation should be taught at an appropriate age. The guidance does not set any age limits for teaching this content.

Health and wellbeing content to be covered by the end of primary school includes facts about the menstrual cycle, including physical and emotional changes. The guidance is clear that whilst the average age of the onset of menstruation is twelve, periods can start at eight, so covering this topic before girls’ periods start will help them understand what to expect and avoid distress. The menstrual cycle is also taught in science at key stage 3 (ages 11 to 14).

The government has commissioned Oak Academy to make lesson materials freely available.