Know Your Period

Assemblywoman Lori D. Wilson introduces Bill Assembly Bill 2229 (AB 2229), aimed at enhancing comprehensive sexual health education in California schools. This bill seeks to address a crucial gap in current education by including menstrual health as an integral part of sexual health curriculum. The idea for AB 2229 emerged from our "There Oughta Be a Law" contest, highlighting the importance of community engagement in shaping legislative initiatives. Assemblywoman Lori D. Wilson emphasized the importance of AB 2229, stating, "It's crucial that we provide our students with accurate and comprehensive sexual health education that includes menstrual health. By addressing this gap in our curriculum, we can empower young people to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Additionally, educating students about menstruation can help break down stigmas and taboos, promoting healthier attitudes and outcomes." "My period should never have been shrouded in mystery, nor should I have suffered in silence due to misinformation and shame,” said Sriya Srinivasan, sponsor and Solano Community College student trustee. “Passing AB 2229, we have the opportunity to provide relief and empowerment to thousands of students" The California Healthy Youth Act (AB 329) has been pivotal in ensuring middle and high school students receive comprehensive sexual health education since its enactment in 2016. However, despite its comprehensive nature, the existing curriculum fails to explicitly address menstrual health. This gap in the curriculum means that many students in California are missing critical information about menstrual health, which is essential for reducing stigma and increasing awareness within the community. Assembly Bill 2229 seeks to rectify this by adding the definition of "Menstrual Health" to the curriculum, ensuring students receive information about the menstrual cycle, premenstrual syndrome and pain management, menstrual disorders, menstrual irregularities, menopause, menstrual stigma, and other relevant topics. This aligns with federal policy and underscores the need for comprehensive menstrual health education to be integrated into the existing sexual health curriculum.