Menstrual Health and Period Poverty
Menstrual health is a fundamental aspect of women’s physical, mental, and social well-being, yet it remains neglected in many parts of the world. Period poverty refers to the lack of access to safe and affordable menstrual products, adequate sanitation facilities, and proper education about menstruation. This issue affects millions of girls and women, particularly in low-income and marginalized communities, and continues to reinforce gender inequality. One of the primary causes of period poverty is economic hardship. For many families, menstrual products are considered non-essential expenses, forcing women and girls to resort to unsafe alternatives such as cloth, rags, or paper. These practices often lead to infections, reproductive health problems, and long-term medical complications. Additionally, limited access to clean water, private toilets, and waste disposal systems makes it difficult to manage menstruation with dignity. Social stigma surrounding menstruation further worsens t...