Period poverty
United Nations Population Fund describes Period Poverty as “the struggle many low-income women and girls face while trying to afford menstrual products.”
Period poverty does not only affect women and girls in developing countries; it also affects women in wealthy, industrialized countries.
what are the causes?
In addition to poverty, in some countries, there are social, cultural, economic, and political barriers to menstrual products, education, and sanitation.
why should we address the issue?
More than half of the world’s population are menstruating people. Missing school and work have financial implications for the girls and women. To exacerbate the problem, in many countries, there is a social stigma attached to menstruation which has emotional, physical, and mental health effects on menstruating individuals.
health impact
Lack of menstrual products can force menstruators to resort to unhygienic and unsafe alternatives that may cause health issues like urogenital infection, urinary tract infection, and skin irritation.
mental impact
Being unable to manage their period with the appropriate menstrual products can make people feel upset, distressed, and uncomfortable.
economic impact
Difficulty affording menstrual products can cause girls to stay home from school and work, with lasting consequences on their education and economic opportunities.