We, the undersigned students of Penn State University, call on the administration to implement a standardized Health-Based Academic Flexibility Policy that includes menstrual health accommodations.

The Problem

Right now, Penn State has no consistent policy for students experiencing short-term physical health symptoms that affect their ability to attend class or complete assignments. Decisions are left entirely to individual professors, meaning two students in the same situation can receive completely different outcomes depending on who their teacher is. That is not fair.

The Facts

• 70–90% of students who menstruate experience symptoms that interfere with daily functioning
• 1 in 4 students misses class due to menstrual-related symptoms
• Over 40% report reduced concentration and classroom performance
• Nearly 80% of Penn State students surveyed said academic flexibility would improve their performance
• Millions of students attend class every day while experiencing physical symptoms that directly impact their ability to focus, participate and perform

What We Are Asking For

1. 1–2 excused health-related absences per semester for menstrual symptoms, submitted through the student portal, no invasive medical documentation required
2. Limited assignment extensions when symptoms interfere with timely completion
3. Standardized guidelines so every student is treated consistently across all courses

Why This Matters

This is not about lowering academic standards. Students who are forced to sit through class in severe pain are not learning anyway. Giving students a structured, limited accommodation means they return to class ready to actually engage, which benefits everyone.

Countries like Japan, South Korea, and Spain already recognize menstrual health in their workplace laws. Penn State has the opportunity to lead American universities in doing the same.

By signing, you are calling on Penn State University to take this issue seriously and implement a fair, simple, and consistent policy for all students.

Petition created by Ana Muzashvili, Penn State University, 2026