#Japan #Shibuya #Akibito #Menstrual Attitudes #Tsukiobi

Understanding Menstrual Attitudes Across Generations

In recent years, women’s perspectives on menstruation have transformed significantly, influenced by the increasing societal participation of women. Akibito Inc., headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, recently conducted a survey focusing on the perceptions related to first menstruation among women in their 20s and 50s. This investigation not only sheds light on the variance in experiences between these two age groups but also underscores the generational changes in how menstruation is viewed and discussed.

Background of the Survey

The onset of menstruation is a crucial milestone in a woman's life, often accompanied by a variety of emotions and societal implications. The era in which one experiences their first period can largely shape their understanding and feelings about it. For women who began menstruating in the 1980s, like those in their 50s today, societal norms dictated that menstruation was something to be kept hidden. In contrast, those who started their menstruation in the late 2000s to early 2010s have had more access to information and generally more open discussions about menstrual health in families and schools.

This shift potentially affects their knowledge, feelings of anxiety, and the ways they communicate about menstruation. Akibito's survey thus aimed to explore these shifts in perceptions between two distinct generations: women in their 20s and women in their 50s.

Key Findings of the Survey

The survey, conducted from April 9 to April 11, 2025, employed an internet survey method and included 332 participants from both age groups. Below are some key findings:

• - Both age groups mostly reported that they started menstruating at the age of 12.
• - When asked about their initial sources of information regarding menstruation, younger women predominantly cited 'mothers and family' (43.7%), whereas older respondents leaned towards 'school lessons and health education' (52.8%).
• - More than 40% of women from both generations indicated that they had at least 'heard a bit' about menstruation before they started.
• - Common worries about menstruation during this initial phase included 'concerns about leaks at school' as the top worry for both age groups, followed by 'embarrassment about others knowing.' However, a significant number of women in their 20s—28.1%—noted that they faced no significant issues, unlike their older counterparts, where 28.5% expressed concerns about limitations related to clothing and activities.

Detailed Analysis

The uniform report of starting menstruation at age 12 across generations indicates a shared experience, despite the differing contexts of those formative years. The differences in information sources are particularly revealing. The reliance on familial sources among the younger generation suggests a more open familial dialogue about menstruation, a stark contrast to the previous reliance on formal education that characterized the older generation.

Interestingly, while both groups shared similar anxieties regarding leakage and societal judgment, the notable reduction in reported concerns among younger women points to a generational shift towards normalization of menstruation. The data suggests that women in their 20s may perceive menstruation less as a source of anxiety, likely due to the improved discourse around menstrual health in contemporary society.

Conclusion

The findings from Akibito's survey highlight significant differences in experiences and perceptions surrounding menstruation between women in their 20s and 50s. Key insights reveal that while the first menstruation remains a pivotal moment experienced around the same age, the sources of information and the accompanying feelings about menstruation have evolved. Today’s younger generation appears to have a more informed and relaxed approach to menstruation, reflecting broader societal changes and greater openness regarding women’s health issues. This evolution is exemplified by Akibito's product, the '-Tsukiobi-,' designed to support women during menstruation with features that prioritize comfort and confidentiality, addressing the very concerns identified in the survey.

For more details on the innovative '-Tsukiobi-' product, visit Tsukiobi.