How Reusable, Washable Pads Can Transform Girls’ Education
May 8, 2025
Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025
October 19, 2025
Health and Mental Health Consequences
Without safe and sanitary products, many people resort to using rags, socks, tissues, or even newspapers. This leads to:
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Increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and reproductive health issues.
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Higher rates of bacterial vaginosis, especially when menstruators use unhygienic alternatives for extended periods.
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Significant mental health toll, including feelings of shame, anxiety, low self-esteem, and even suicidal thoughts.
A 2021 U.S.-based study found that students experiencing period poverty were four times more likely to experience moderate to severe depression.
Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34591303/
Educational Impact of Period Poverty
For students, period poverty doesn’t just affect comfort—it disrupts education.
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Missing school 3–5 days a month due to menstruation equates to over 20% of the school year lost.
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In countries like India, 23% of girls drop out of school after reaching puberty due to inadequate facilities and stigma.
Even in the United Kingdom, research by Plan International UK found that 1 in 10 girls can’t afford menstrual products and 49% have missed an entire day of school because of their period.
Source: https://plan-uk.org/media-centre/plan-international-uks-period-poverty-research
The Financial Burden of Menstruation
Menstrual products are still considered a luxury in many parts of the world:
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On average, a menstruator spends $1,800 to $2,500 over a lifetime on period products.
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In many U.S. states, these products are still subject to sales tax—often referred to as the “tampon tax.”
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In low-income households, choosing between buying food or period products is a monthly dilemma.
In the U.S., more than 16.9 million people who menstruate live in poverty, making this a daily battle.
Why Period Poverty Persists
Period poverty is not just about money—it’s about broken systems. It continues due to:
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Stigma and shame around menstruation, which keep people from speaking up or seeking help.
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Lack of education: Menstrual health is still not part of many school curriculums.
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Inadequate infrastructure, especially in schools and refugee camps.
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Lack of policy enforcement, particularly in public spaces, schools, and prisons.
Where Progress Is Happening
There’s hope. Some countries and local governments have taken real steps toward menstrual equity:
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Scotland became the first country to make period products free by law in 2020.
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Kenya removed taxes on menstrual products in 2004 and now includes menstrual education in schools.
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California, New York, and Illinois now require public schools to provide free products in bathrooms.
The momentum is building—but it’s not enough yet.
How to End Period Poverty
Here are practical, effective actions that individuals, governments, and businesses can take:
1. Normalize menstruation
Break the taboo by including menstrual education in schools and public campaigns. When people talk about it, shame loses power.
2. Provide free products
Schools, shelters, and workplaces should stock free period products—just like toilet paper.
3. End the tampon tax
Governments should classify menstrual products as essential, tax-free health items—not luxury goods.
4. Support menstrual health organizations
Donate to or partner with NGOs like:
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The Pad Project: https://thepadproject.org/
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Days for Girls: https://www.daysforgirls.org/
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Alliance for Period Supplies: https://allianceforperiodsupplies.org/
5. Invest in WASH infrastructure
Support programs that build private bathrooms, water access, and disposal bins—especially in low-income schools and refugee camps.
Final Thoughts: Period Poverty Isn’t Just a Women’s Issue
Period poverty affects education, mental health, the economy, and public health. It’s not a “female problem”—it’s a structural injustice that reflects how society values dignity and equity.
In 2025, there’s no excuse for it to continue. The data is there. The solutions exist. The only thing missing is the will to act.
