Period Poverty: Everything You Need to Know
It is a global issue affecting people around the world
Period poverty refers to the social, economic, political, and cultural barriers to menstrual products, education, and sanitation.Although period poverty is a widespread problem, there is a lack of research on the topic. In 2019, experts from academic institutions, Non Governmental Organizations, governments, UN organizations, and elsewhere came together to form the Global Menstrual Collective to solve this issue.The Global Menstrual Collective defines menstrual health as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity, in relation to the menstrual cycle.” It notes that people should have:
- Access to information about menstruation, life changes, and hygiene practices.
- The ability to care for themselves during menstruation access to water, sanitation, and hygiene services.
- The ability to receive a diagnosis for menstrual cycle disorders and access to healthcare.
- A positive, supportive environment in which to make informed decisions.
- The ability to participate in all aspects of life, such as going to work and school.
How period poverty affects people
Period poverty can affect people in a variety of ways. It can make them feel embarrassed about or ashamed of their periods, and it causes young people to miss out on school due to a lack of menstrual products.
Health and hygiene
People unable to access menstrual products have reportedTrusted Source using rags, toilet paper, and children' diapers. Some people have also used the menstrual products they did have for longer than intended. Using these alternative products puts individuals at higher risk of urogenital infections, which are infections of the urinary and genital systems. These infections include urinary tract infections and bacterial infections.
Education
People who menstruate can have a negative experience of school or college if they are uncomfortable, distracted, or unable to participate due to menstrual leakage and odor.This experience can have long-term consequences. Poor school attendance affects a person's future earning potential, self-esteem, health outcomes, and sense of control.
Period poverty and menstruation stigma
The issue of period poverty is shrouded in stigma. Although period poverty is a global public health crisis, the shame surrounding menstruation means that it goes largely unaddressed.Many cultures see menstruation as dirty and something that people should hide. Campaigners want to shift the focus to the fact that menstruating is biologically normal and healthy.The shame associated with periods prevents people from talking about them. This leads to a lack of dialogue regarding access to menstruation products, the tax on these products, and even the ingredients that they include.