PLATO

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Period poverty, characterized by the lack of access to menstrual products, hygiene facilities, waste management, and education, adversely affects numerous women, leading to both physiological issues and emotional stress. The prevailing stigma surrounding menstruation further discourages open conversations, particularly concerning the period leading up to menarche. Premenstrual symptoms encompass a range of mood, behavioral, and physical indications that cyclically occur before menstruation, subsiding after the menstrual period in women of reproductive age. While most females experience only mild discomfort, approximately 5% to 8% grapple with moderate-to-severe symptoms, causing considerable distress and functional impairment that can impact personal, social, and professional aspects of their lives. Although premenstrual symptoms have been acknowledged for a long time, specific diagnostic criteria have only been defined recently. The terminology for premenstrual disorders has undergone significant changes over the years, evolving from "menses moodiness" in the 18th century to "premenstrual tension" in the early 19th century, culminating in the term "premenstrual syndrome" in the 1950s. While some discomfort prior to menses is common, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to a subset of women experiencing symptoms severe enough to impact daily activities and functioning. Late luteal dysphoric disorder (now known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder or PMDD) represents the most severe form of PMS, characterized by substantial impairment in women’s functioning and perceived quality of life, often prompting them to seek treatment. 

PLATO explores menarche, menstrual disorders and period poverty using a multi-workstream approach. The international arm of the project will commence in 2024

The PLATO Menstrual Health Perceptions Survey is an international, student-led research initiative designed to investigate menstrual health perceptions, practices, and challenges among female university students across Tanzania, Rwanda, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and India. Developed by PhD researchers, the survey captures both undergraduate and postgraduate perspectives to address a significant evidence gap in understanding menstrual health within higher education settings.

This study is critical as menstruation remains under-researched and inadequately addressed within university policies globally, often leading to unmet health needs, stigma, and academic disadvantages. By systematically gathering cross-country data, the survey aims to generate culturally nuanced insights into knowledge gaps, barriers to menstrual health management, and the psychosocial impacts of inadequate institutional support.

Findings will inform the development of evidence-based toolkits and actionable recommendations for universities to strengthen menstrual health provision and equity in academic environments. The project also aligns with global public health priorities, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), by advancing gender equality (SDG 5), improving health and wellbeing (SDG 3), and promoting inclusive, quality education (SDG 4). Ultimately, PLATO seeks to empower students, guide policy reform, and foster supportive campus environments for women’s health and educational attainment

The PLATO IVF Perceptions Survey is an international research initiative conducted across Tanzania, Rwanda, Nigeria, Ghana, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and India to explore perceptions, practices, and challenges surrounding in vitro fertilisation (IVF). Developed by a multidisciplinary research team, the survey captures perspectives from IVF patients, their families, healthcare professionals, and the general public, addressing a critical evidence gap in reproductive medicine within low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

IVF remains a complex and often stigmatised area of women’s health, with cultural, social, and economic factors influencing access to treatment and patient experiences. Limited understanding and widespread misconceptions can contribute to emotional distress, treatment hesitancy, and inequities in reproductive healthcare.

By systematically analysing responses across diverse LMIC settings, this study aims to generate robust, contextually relevant insights into barriers, decision-making processes, and societal attitudes toward assisted reproductive technologies. Findings will underpin the development of evidence-based toolkits designed to support individuals undergoing IVF, guide families in providing effective psychosocial support, and enhance public awareness to reduce stigma. The project contributes to advancing reproductive health equity, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on health and wellbeing (SDG 3), gender equality (SDG 5), and reducing inequalities in access to fertility care