Breaking down barriers - Join our new campaign!

Written By Leza Milligan

In our previous blog, we explored how menstruation affects girls’ participation in sport and what helps them stay involved.

Periods are still not talked about openly in many schools and clubs. When that happens, girls adapt quietly. They push through discomfort, change how they train, or step back from sport altogether.

Together, we can change that.

Click the image above to download a printable PDF

At Optimise, we turn evidence into practical action. We create tools and environments that help girls understand their bodies and stay confident in sport.

Most importantly, we don’t just raise awareness, we tackle barriers head on. That’s where our exciting new campaign comes in.

We’ve worked with designer Joumana Ibrahim, alongside teenage girls, to create a series of simple, evidence-based posters for schools and clubs across the UK. Designed for bathrooms and changing rooms, these resources offer clear, reassuring information at the moments girls need it most.

The posters help women and girls:

  • Understand what’s happening in their bodies

  • Feel more confident managing their cycle

  • Stay involved in training and competition

  • Advocate for their needs

This is about small, practical changes that make a real impact.

Here’s how you can make a difference:

Together, we can make conversations about periods part of everyday sport.

  • Download a poster and display it in your school, club or gym

  • Share a photo and show how your community is taking action (don’t forget to tag us!)

  • Start a conversation with a coach, teacher or workplace

  • Share your experience or tips to support others

Small actions like these help create environments where women and girls can take part with confidence – every day of the month. 

Be the change, be brave, start the conversation.

Leza Milligan
Next

Periods, participation and potential: the reality of menstruation and sport