MENSTRUAL MANAGEMENT AND WOMEN WHO HAVE INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES: SERVICE PROVIDERS AND DECISION-MAKING

As part of a study about menstrual management decision-making for women who have an intellectual disability and high support needs, 63 service providers were interviewed using a semi-structured interview schedule. The interview participants included school staff, residential staff, "resource" staff, managers, and medical practitioners. The interview schedule sought information about decision-making bases, such as relevant personal experiences and observations, attitudes to menstruation, knowledge of management approaches, and practical support networks accessed by the participants. In addition, participants were asked their opinions about decision-making processes such as what choices they perceive as practicable and preferable, who should be involved in decision-making processes and criteria upon which decisions should be made. Participants were also asked for their suggestions about how to access information and enhance practical support for the young women and their ramifies. This paper summarises the information gained through these semi-structured interviews and suggests that service provision organisations may need to review staff training and service delivery in relation to menstrual management. Some suggestions for staff training are made.