Period Poverty: What it is and How to help
Period poverty is a growing issue that affects millions of individuals worldwide, particularly those living in low-income communities. It refers to the lack of access to menstrual products, proper sanitation facilities, and education about menstruation due to financial constraints. This results in individuals being forced to use unhygienic materials during their periods, such as rags, newspapers, or leaves, or missing school or work altogether.
Period poverty is not just a financial issue but also a social issue, as it perpetuates the stigma surrounding menstruation. Many individuals feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about their periods or seek help, which only exacerbates the problem.
The consequences of period poverty are far-reaching, including negative impacts on physical health, mental health, and education. For instance, the use of unhygienic materials can lead to infections or illnesses, while missing school or work can hinder academic or career opportunities.
To address period poverty, several organizations and initiatives have emerged in recent years. These include donation drives for menstrual products, lobbying for policy changes to make period products more affordable or even free, and educational programs to promote menstrual hygiene and break down stigmas surrounding menstruation.
As individuals, there are also several ways we can help. This includes donating menstrual products to local shelters or food banks, supporting organizations that advocate for menstrual equity, and having open and honest conversations about menstruation with our friends and family to reduce stigma and increase awareness.
Ultimately, ending period poverty requires a collective effort from governments, organizations, and individuals to ensure that menstrual products and education are accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.
