Preparation is a major key to success on and off the field, but sometimes your period still makes an unexpected early appearance. We’ve all been there.
According to a recent study in the BMC Women’s Health journal, 1 in 10 college students struggle to afford menstrual hygiene supplies. That’s why we, at Aunt Flow, are on a mission to make period products available to all for free (yes, even if you need it for a nosebleed).
If you’re looking for a way to make a difference on campus, this one’s for you.
Start the Conversation with Your Athletic Department
The first step to getting free period products in your locker room is to start a conversation with your athletic department. Reach out to your coach, athletic director, or relevant administrative staff using this handy template asking for free pads and tampons to be provided in the locker rooms on campus. You can further explain how this would positively impact your performance, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve comfort and overall well-being.
Research Any Existing Policies
Some colleges and universities have already implemented policies to provide free period products in their facilities. Check if your institution has such a policy in place. If not, use this as an opportunity to advocate for its creation.
Organize and Mobilize
To drive change, gather support from your fellow athletes and create a united front. Together, you can advocate more effectively for free period products in your locker room and help break the stigma associated with talking about your period, especially for girls in sports. Form a student-athlete committee or join an existing student organization focused on women’s health or gender equality.
Promote Education and Awareness
In addition to securing free period products, focus on raising awareness about menstrual equity and breaking down period stigmas within your athletic community. Education is essential in ensuring everyone feels comfortable discussing and addressing these needs. We like to call this leveling the playing field, one cycle at a time.
The ✨inspo✨you didn’t know you needed: Here’s how Aunt Flow teamed up with former Ohio State tennis star Irina Cantos to add over 30 Aunt Flow tampon and pad dispensers throughout the locker rooms in the Buckeyes’ athletics department.
