Menstruation - SECCA National Sexuality and Your Rights

Menstruation

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Most people who have a will menstruate. This is also called having a period.

uterus
menstruation

You can choose
how you manage
your periods.

choice

You can choose
to use pads.

pad

You can choose to
use period undies.

You can choose
to use tampons.

tampon

You can choose to
use a menstrual cup.

menstrual cup

Sometimes there is pain or discomfort with periods.

You can choose to
use heat packs on
your stomach or back.

heat pack

You can choose to
take pain medication.

medication

If you have concerns about periods, you can talk to your doctor or health professional.

doctor

You have the right to choose if, when, and how to manage your period. You can choose to manage your period cycle with such as the oral contraceptive pill, contraceptive implant, or an Intrauterine Device (IUD). Some people manage their period to stop pain or skip their period. Contraceptives also stop you getting pregnant while you use them.

pill
implant clothed
IUD
monthly

Having your removed is called a hysterectomy. 

This means you will never:

hysterectomy
equals object
not pregnant
periods stopped
choice

Capacity

If you want to have your removed to manage your period, the law says you need to have .

Capacity means you can:

Everyone is presumed to have capacity. You can be supported to make a decision. You can talk to your doctor or other health professional about your options. You should not be forced to have a hysterectomy.

If you do not have capacity to make decisions about your health, a legal guardian will need to apply to the appropriate legal administration group or court in your state or territory for you to have a hysterectomy.
This surgery will take some time to arrange.

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Page last updated: January 30, 2024