Period poverty remains a significant global issue impacting millions of women and girls, hindering their ability to afford menstrual products and access proper water and sanitation facilities for managing their menstrual health and hygiene. This financial burden not only disrupts their daily lives but also affects their education, work, and overall well-being.

The term “period poverty” encompasses the lack of affordability and accessibility to essential menstrual products, sanitation facilities, and education on menstrual health management. The root causes of period poverty are multifaceted, including societal stigma, the high cost of menstrual products, and inadequate water and sanitation infrastructure.

Across the world, menstrual products are often priced exorbitantly, making them unattainable for many. Gender-blind policies and discriminatory taxation further compound the issue, with products like sanitary pads being taxed as luxury items in contrast to essential health products like Viagra. Moreover, the absence of proper sanitation facilities, such as private toilets, disproportionately affects women and girls, leading to challenges in attending school or work during their periods.

Insufficient education and awareness about menstruation also contribute to perpetuating period poverty. Many girls enter puberty unprepared and unaware, while policymakers and adults often lack comprehensive knowledge to provide adequate support. Cultural taboos and myths surrounding menstruation further exacerbate the issue, restricting the movement and activities of menstruating individuals in various communities.

Period poverty impacts women and girls globally, regardless of economic status or geographic location. Disparities in access to menstrual health resources are evident between urban and rural areas, with urban populations more likely to afford sanitary pads compared to those in rural regions who may resort to less hygienic alternatives like cloth. Even in developed countries like the United States, a significant proportion of teens and adults struggle to afford period products, with marginalized groups facing heightened challenges.

During times of crisis, such as conflicts or disasters, managing menstruation becomes even more challenging. Displaced women and girls often lack privacy and necessary resources to maintain menstrual hygiene, leading to health risks and loss of dignity. In conflict-affected regions like Gaza, the scarcity of menstrual products exacerbates the plight of women and girls, forcing them to use inadequate substitutes like cloth or sponges.

Efforts to address period poverty require a holistic approach that recognizes menstrual health as a fundamental human rights issue. Initiatives focusing on education, access to affordable products, and improved sanitation facilities are crucial in empowering women and girls globally. By raising awareness, combating stigma, and advocating for policy changes, society can work towards eliminating period poverty and ensuring menstrual equity for all individuals.