Period Poverty and Its Impact: Why Access to Period Products Matters

For most women and girls, having a period is a normal part of life. However, for many, managing menstruation is made more difficult by the inability to afford or access essential period products.

This issue is known as period poverty. It affects people of all ages and backgrounds and can have a significant impact on health, education, employment and wellbeing.

Understanding period poverty is an important step towards reducing stigma and ensuring everyone can manage their periods safely and with dignity.

What is period poverty?

Period poverty refers to the lack of access to:

• Menstrual products, such as sanitary pads, tampons or menstrual cups.
• Clean and safe toilet facilities.
• Running water and handwashing facilities.
• Accurate menstrual health education.
• Appropriate healthcare and support when needed.

While cost is often a major factor, period poverty can also result from limited availability of products, homelessness, social stigma or lack of education about menstrual health.

Who is affected?

Period poverty can affect:

• School pupils and students.
• People on low incomes.
• Those experiencing homelessness.
• Women and girls living in rural or isolated communities.
• People fleeing domestic abuse.
• Refugees and asylum seekers.

Many individuals quietly manage these challenges without asking for help because of embarrassment or fear of being judged.

The impact on education and work

Without access to suitable period products, some people may:

• Miss school, college or university.
• Take time off work.
• Avoid social activities.
• Struggle to concentrate because of discomfort or anxiety.
• Feel isolated or embarrassed.

Missing education or employment can have lasting effects on confidence, opportunities and financial wellbeing.

The impact on physical health

Using unsuitable materials or wearing menstrual products for longer than recommended because replacements are unavailable may increase the risk of:

• Skin irritation.
• Discomfort.
• Infections.
• Reduced personal hygiene.

Access to clean toilet facilities and menstrual products is an important part of maintaining menstrual health.

The impact on mental wellbeing

Period poverty can also affect emotional health.

Many people report feelings of:

• Shame.
• Embarrassment.
• Anxiety.
• Stress.
• Social isolation.

The stigma surrounding menstruation can make it harder for people to ask for support, meaning many struggle in silence.

Breaking the stigma

Although menstruation affects around half the population at some point in their lives, it is still surrounded by misunderstanding and embarrassment in some settings.

Open conversations about periods can help to:

• Improve menstrual health education.
• Challenge myths and misconceptions.
• Encourage people to seek help when needed.
• Create more supportive schools and workplaces.
• Reduce feelings of shame and isolation.

Normalising conversations about menstrual health benefits everyone.

Support available

Across the UK, a range of organisations, schools, colleges, charities and community groups provide free menstrual products to those who need them.

Some workplaces, universities and public venues also make period products freely available in toilets, helping to reduce barriers and support dignity for all.

If you are struggling to afford period products, local charities, food banks, community organisations or healthcare professionals may be able to signpost you to available support in your area.

Everyone deserves menstrual dignity

Periods are a normal part of life, not a luxury. No one should have to choose between buying food, paying bills or accessing the products they need to manage their menstrual health safely.

Reducing period poverty requires more than simply providing products. It also means improving education, tackling stigma and ensuring that everyone has access to the information, facilities and support they need. By talking openly about menstruation and supporting initiatives that improve access, we can help ensure that every woman and girl is able to manage their period with dignity, confidence and respect.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is intended for general information only and should not be considered medical advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any medical condition. If you have concerns about your menstrual health, heavy or painful periods, or recurrent infections, speak to your GP or another qualified healthcare professional. If you are struggling to access period products, support may also be available through local charities, community organisations, schools, colleges or healthcare services.

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This article is part of our Women’s Health series, created to support the people who dedicate their careers to caring for others.

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