What Is Period Poverty?
Period poverty describes the struggle many low-income menstruators face while trying to afford menstrual products. Additionally, it refers to the heightened economic insecurity experienced by menstruators due to the financial strain imposed by menstrual supplies, encompassing not only pads and tampons but also associated related costs like pain relief medication and underwear. Period Poverty does not only affect menstruators in low-income areas or developing countries, however, as it also affects those in wealthy and industrialized areas.
Why is this important?
Reasons are and are not limited to:
Health & Hygiene: Maintaining good health and preventing infections rely on proper menstrual hygiene. When individuals lack access to adequate menstrual products and sanitation facilities, they may resort to unhygienic alternatives, increasing the risk of infections and other health issues.
Education: The absence of menstrual products and sanitation facilities can impede individuals from attending school or work during their menstrual cycles. This may result in absenteeism, decreased productivity, and restricted educational and economic prospects for those impacted.
Social & Economic Impacts: Period poverty can continue cycles of poverty and disadvantage, especially in marginalized communities and low-income areas. By tackling period poverty, we can ease some of the financial struggles experienced by individuals and families.
Policy Changes & Advocacy: Addressing period poverty requires advocacy and policy changes at local, national, and international levels. It involves challenging societal taboos and advocating for policies that ensure access to menstrual products, education, and healthcare services for all individuals who menstruate.
Reproduction: Limited access to menstrual hygiene products and inadequate menstrual hygiene management can lead to reproductive health issues such as infections, reproductive tract diseases, and complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Addressing period poverty is crucial for promoting overall reproductive health and well-being.
