A recent national poll commissioned by consumer‑product brands Always and Tampax shows that a majority of women who have recently completed college feel they were not adequately prepared to manage their periods while on campus. The study, conducted by OnePoll between Sept. 9‑16, 2026, surveyed 2,000 U.S. women who graduated within the past five years.

Key findings on campus menstrual experiences

Overall, 64% of respondents said they often worried that talking openly about periods could lead to embarrassment or judgment. More than half (61%) believed that more open conversations would have made their college experience easier.

Specific incidents were common: 33% reported that their period unexpectedly began during a class or lecture, and 44% experienced leaks or stains they felt unable to discuss with anyone. As a result, 32% missed at least one class because of menstrual issues, while 61% relied on classmates to fill them in on missed material.

When asked why they did not disclose the true cause of an absence, 41% said they attributed it to a stomachache rather than a period.

Academic impact and emotional toll

Sixteen percent said they performed worse on an exam or assessment because of their period than they otherwise would have. Nineteen percent felt too embarrassed to ask friends for help with period‑related concerns, and 46% felt the same about asking professors.

Overall, 67% felt they had to handle many menstrual‑health challenges on their own, and 64% wished they had received more information before starting college.

Regrets and recommendations from respondents

When reflecting on their college years, 43% regretted not planning ahead with period products, and another 43% wished they had taken more time to rest during their cycles. Twenty‑seven percent said they should have spoken more openly about their symptoms.

Specific knowledge gaps were highlighted: 42% wanted to know how to handle a period emergency on campus, and 40% wanted guidance on managing symptoms during high‑pressure times such as exams.

Nearly a quarter (24%) found managing their period harder in college than in high school. Emotional responses were notable: 48% felt uncomfortable, 41% felt stressed, and 36% felt self‑conscious while dealing with their periods on campus.

Access to products and the role of mentors

Twenty‑two percent reported that period products were not even available when they needed them on campus. Seventy‑six percent said having an older sister, mentor, or trusted role model would have made managing menstrual health easier.

When asked who would have been the most helpful source of advice before college, 24% chose a female mentor or role model, 17% selected a parent or guardian, and 13% said a friend who had already started college.

Implications for campuses

The findings suggest that colleges could improve student well‑being by fostering open dialogue about menstrual health, ensuring reliable access to period products, and providing mentorship opportunities. By addressing the embarrassment and information gaps identified in the survey, institutions can help reduce class absences, improve academic performance, and support the overall health of their female students.

While the study was funded by manufacturers of menstrual products, the data highlight genuine challenges faced by many women in higher education and point toward actionable steps for campuses nationwide.

Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.