Ending Period Poverty.

Period poverty is defined as inadequate access to menstrual hygiene tools and education, including but not limited to sanitary products, washing facilities and waste management.

Past

Though the term “period poverty” is relatively new in medical literature, menstrual hygiene management has been discussed for decades in the conversation of the gender gap in education for youth living in low and middle income countries.

Present

Unfortunately, the absence of menstrual hygiene products remains a prevalent issue worldwide, and the COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated the situation. With the economic impact of the pandemic, many people are disposed to tumultuous fiscal conditions, making it even more challenging to afford menstrual products. This has expanded areas of need from women in historically underprivileged countries/communities to include even more new groups. While some countries have taken steps to address period poverty, including Scotland, which became the first country in the world to provide free menstrual products in schools, there is still much work to be done to ensure menstrual equity.

Future

Our work, such as in Charlotte when we distributed hygiene products, is part of our efforts to secure menstrual equality for more women.

With your help, we can provide resources to women who need it, and ensure that women have access to the hygiene products necessary for their health.