Health Room BOX Project brings femtech to Japan’s high schools

Fermata Inc. and Kagawa Nutrition University have launched the “Health Room BOX” project, aimed at integrating Femtech and other health-related options into high school health rooms across Japan. This project represents a significant step towards addressing the often overlooked health needs of teenagers, especially young women, in a setting that feels safe and familiar.

The Health Room BOX aims to provide high school students with access to Femtech products and information that can improve their quality of life. Femtech, or female technology, encompasses a range of products and services designed to address women’s health issues. Despite the growing awareness of Femtech globally, access for teenagers in Japan has been limited due to various barriers, including financial, physical, and psychological factors, as well as the health literacy of parents.

The project’s preview event took place on May 26 at Kagawa Nutrition University’s 45th Wakaba Festival. The Health and Nursing Care Research Laboratory at the university, known for producing top-class school nurses, spearheaded this initiative. The event attracted around 420 attendees, including students, parents, local residents, alumni, and current school nurses. It was also an opportunity to gather feedback from diverse perspectives, crucial for the project’s success.

One of the key elements of the Health Room BOX is its adaptability. The contents have been tailored by students from the Health and Nursing Care Research Laboratory to meet the specific needs of high school students. While Femtech products like menstrual cups and period panties are included, the BOX also offers basic health products such as tampons and panty liners, and essential information about feminine hygiene and the use of bidets. These additions address the gap in knowledge and accessibility among teenagers.

The project aims to place these boxes in high school health rooms for one to two weeks at a time. During this period, school nurses will explain the products and gather feedback through discussions and surveys. This approach introduces students to new health options and engages them in conversations about their health needs and concerns. The insights gathered will be invaluable in refining the project and expanding it to other educational levels, including elementary and junior high schools.

The significance of this initiative cannot be overstated. High school students are at a critical juncture in their lives, making pivotal decisions about their futures while grappling with the physical and mental stresses of school, extracurricular activities, and entrance exams. Providing them with accessible health solutions and information in a trusted environment like the school health room can help them make informed decisions about their well-being.

The Health Room BOX project highlights the potential of Femtech to improve quality of life and underscores the importance of making health products accessible to all age groups. By embedding these resources in the school environment, the Health Room BOX project supports students’ health and fosters a culture of openness and informed choice.