Period poverty is a global issue affecting millions of girls and women, preventing them from accessing essential menstrual products and hygiene facilities. This lack of access not only impacts their health but also their education and overall well-being. The stigma and shame associated with menstruation further exacerbate the problem, making it a pressing issue that needs immediate attention.
Period poverty refers to the lack of access to safe and hygienic menstrual products, menstrual hygiene education, and adequate sanitation facilities. According to Dr. May Ng, deputy president of the All Action Women’s Society (Awam), “Period poverty is the lack of access to safe and hygienic menstrual products during monthly periods, menstrual hygiene education, and basic sanitation services and facilities”. This issue is prevalent not only in developing countries but also in wealthy, industrialized nations.
The Impact of Period Poverty
The consequences of period poverty are far-reaching. For instance, a local study by Kotex Malaysia revealed that 50% of Malaysian girls wish they could be absent from school when menstruating, and 50% lack self-confidence during their periods. This leads to significant educational setbacks, as girls often miss school to avoid the embarrassment and bullying associated with menstruation. “This eventually creates a gender imbalance because the boys end up going to school regularly while girls skip school during their periods,” says Dr. May Ng.
In the UK, nearly 25% of girls and women in higher education have struggled to access or afford menstrual products. The cost of living crisis has exacerbated this issue, with 25% of university students going without necessities, including period products. This lack of access can lead to severe physical health issues, such as infections from using unsafe alternatives like cloth or toilet paper.
Breaking the Stigma
Period shaming and the stigma surrounding menstruation are significant barriers to addressing period poverty. Universiti Malaya Feminism Club (UMFC) president Chin Jes Weng highlights that period shaming makes girls and women embarrassed when they’re menstruating, affecting them emotionally, physically, and socially. This stigma often prevents open discussions about menstruation, leading to misinformation and perpetuating myths.
Initiatives to Combat Period Poverty
Several initiatives are being undertaken globally to combat period poverty and break the associated stigma. For example, Awam’s “Haid, Jangan Hide” (Don’t hide when menstruating) program aims to address period poverty in Malaysia by raising awareness and providing menstrual products to those in need. Similarly, in the UK, universities are partnering with charities to distribute free or subsidized menstrual products on campus.
Educational programs are also crucial in addressing period poverty. Kimberley-Clark Malaysia has produced educational videos on period management and sexual reproductive health, which will be aired in national schools to provide accurate information and challenge existing taboos.
Global Efforts and Success Stories
Globally, efforts to address period poverty are gaining momentum. In New Zealand, the government has implemented a program to provide free sanitary products to all schoolgirls, ensuring they do not miss school due to menstruation. In the US, organizations like PERIOD are advocating for legislation to make period products as available as toilet paper in school and public bathrooms.
Period poverty is a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach to address. By improving access to menstrual products, promoting education and awareness, and breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all who menstruate. As Dr. May Ng aptly puts it, “It’s expensive, especially for those from poor families, or are day workers who just earn a basic income. As a result, some of these schoolgirls don’t go to school when they’re menstruating”. It’s time to take action and ensure that no one has to choose between their education and managing their periods.
