What is Period Poverty?
THE PROBLEM
THE CONCERNS
Being unable to manage their period with the appropriate menstrual products can make people feel upset, distressed, and uncomfortable. Research has found that a lack of access to these products can negatively affect someone’s mental health. A recent college study showed that 68.1% of participants who experienced period poverty had symptoms of moderate-to-severe depression.
However, it is important to note that in populations with high-income inequality, having a low income is associated with higher rates Trusted Source of depression. Many people living in period poverty also fall into this group. Therefore, although people who cannot access menstrual products may have higher rates of depression, it is not possible to conclude that period poverty directly causes depression.
Health and hygiene
People unable to access menstrual products have reported Trusted Source using rags, toilet paper, and children’s 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 vaginosis.
Using products longer than intended can also be dangerous. Leaving a tampon in for too long can increase a person’s risk of toxic shock syndrome, a rare but dangerous infection.
Many African countries — including Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Ghana, and Nigeria — have a lack of access to safe, clean, private spaces for menstrual hygiene, according to a 2019 report.
Access to sanitary pads varies among countries. Due to lack of access, the following percentage of menstruators in each country do not use sanitary pads: Kinshasa: 17% Kenya: 14% Ghana: 10% Ethiopia: 41% Nigeria: 37% Uganda: 36%.
How can we end period poverty?
Period poverty is a global public health crisis requiring serious attention. Some ways in which people can combat period poverty include:
- National advocacy: Menstruators need the support of their governments to provide adequate infrastructure and access to affordable menstrual products.
- Increased education and knowledge sharing: Knowledge sharing between organizations, in communities, and in schools can include menstruators in the conversation and provide education without stigma.
- The private sector: Businesses can provide information and access to facilities and products, contribute to destigmatizing menstruation, and integrate menstruation management into their policies.
- Evidence-informed charitable programs: Programs can educate menstruators, provide necessary products, and support people and their communities.
- Further research: More research is necessary on the effects of period poverty and how to combat it.
- Legislation: Protective legislation can ensure affordable access to proper facilities and menstrual hygiene products. Governments can also reduce taxes on menstrual products, making them more affordable.
- Make a donation to support us as we support women and girls in various nations
THE SOLUTION
The great news is that there is a solution. But we need your help.
You can make an immediate difference for women
and girls in need of period products.
MAKE YOUR DONATION TODAY!
