'Period poverty' holds millions of women and girls back

Period poverty prevents millions of women and girls from finishing school

What you probably already know: Millions of women and girls skip school on a regular basis because they are menstruating and do not have the necessary supplies. This issue is prevalent in some countries in Africa and Asia, but also is an issue for many people in wealthier countries where menstrual supplies are expensive and subject to taxes on “nonessential luxury items.” In fact, 20 U.S. states tax pads and tampons at rates of 4-7%. A New York Times column on Monday by Trisha Mukherjee took a deep dive into the shame that accompanies many women and girls as they attempt to get an education.

Why? Many girls in poorer regions use items like old rags, mattress shreds and newspapers to line their underwear when they are on their period. These solutions are less than ideal, often leak and can result in infections. In areas where it rains frequently, it can be difficult for them to clean and dry their rags, and the risk of shame of leaking through their protection drives many girls to stay home from school during their periods. It’s an issue called “period poverty” and the impact can be far-reaching, especially in areas where girls already struggle to get access to education.

What it means: As many as 500 million people across the world lack access to menstrual products, according to the World Bank. A nonprofit called Huru International is among a group trying to change things. The group provides kits to schoolgirls that include thick, reusable sanitary pads, bags to store them, and menstrual health education. A study of girls in Uganda found that access to these products increased girls’ school attendance by 17%, and other studies have shown that dropout rates fall as well when girls have access to the supplies they need.

What happens now? The girls that Mukherjee interviewed for her column said it wasn’t just about access to supplies. It was also about dignity. When they feel like they have to stay home, they feel shame. When they do go to school and their supplies fail them, it can be worse and result in being ostracized and harassed. That’s prompting some schools to make these products available for free in school restrooms so students don’t have to ask to get access to the products they need.