The Scale of the Crisis
Period poverty, the inability to access safe, hygienic menstrual products, affects an estimated 500 million people globally. In high-income countries, it is often hidden: women using toilet paper, rags, or staying home rather than disclosing that they cannot afford tampons or pads. In low-income countries, the consequences cascade into school dropout, health complications, and social exclusion.
The Education Impact
UNESCO estimates that 1 in 5 girls in Africa misses school during menstruation. In the UK, Plan International found that 1 in 10 girls under 21 cannot afford menstrual products. Girls who miss school during their periods fall behind, are more likely to drop out entirely, and have reduced lifetime earnings, a single unaddressed public health issue with generational consequences.
Health Consequences
When women cannot access appropriate products, they improvise with materials that carry real health risks: skin irritation, infection, toxic shock risk. In regions without clean water and sanitation, managing menstruation safely becomes nearly impossible. Reproductive tract infections linked to unhygienic menstrual management are a significant but rarely discussed problem in global women's health.
What Works
Scotland became the first country in the world to provide free period products for all in 2022. Reusable menstrual cups and period pants represent a long-term cost-effective solution. Community-based distribution programmes and breaking the social taboo around menstruation are equally important as access. This is a solvable problem, it requires political will and the willingness to talk openly about periods.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is written for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.
Zara Nkosi
Global Health Journalist
All TryHerCare articles are written and reviewed by qualified medical professionals. Our content is clinician-reviewed to ensure accuracy and clinical relevance.
