Menstrual Blood as Stem Cell Potential: The Turkish Example.

AIM: This study aimed at determining the opinions of midwifery students studying at several universities in Turkey regarding menstrual blood donation. METHODS: The population of this cross-sectional study consisted of midwifery students enrolled in undergraduate programs at several universities in Turkey during the 2023-2024 academic year. Of the 15,689 students, 1346 were reached. Data were collected online using a questionnaire developed by the researchers based on a literature review. The questionnaire comprised two sections: a 10-item questioning Descriptive Information Form assessing sociodemographic characteristics and a 21-item form evaluating participants' knowledge of menstrual blood donation. Data were analyzed using number-percentage distributions and the Chi-square test. RESULTS: Among the participating midwifery students, 50% perceived menstruation as a positive process. Only 8.2% were aware that menstrual blood contains stem cells, and 1.2% knew that menstrual blood can be donated for stem cell use. Similarly, awareness of menstrual blood banking was low (2.6%). CONCLUSION: Midwifery students in Turkey have limited awareness and knowledge regarding menstrual blood and its stem cell potential. Improving perceptions of menstruation and promoting positive attitudes may enhance knowledge levels and contribute to raising awareness in society.