Abstract
Scientific knowledge about the biological rhythms associated with reproduction is extensive, but superstitions, illogical beliefs and misinterpretations related to menstruation still abound. Although excellent educational material about sexuality, including menstruation, is available to young people, surveys indicate that their knowledge is woefully inadequate. The present paper briefly describes the normal menstrual cycle and its associated bodily changes and reviews the sources of information for young people. Formal educators in school or in the community need to recognize the limitations of the present system and work cooperatively with informal sources of information (peers, parents and commercial companies), as well as update their knowledge as information increases. In addition, menstrual education needs to move away from the focus on hygienic management to that of healthy sexuality and acceptance of self.