The impact of period poverty—the lack of access to menstrual products—is a very real issue among students.
The growing momentum to address menstrual equity and reduce the impact of period poverty has spurred not only legislative intervention but also much-needed research surrounding university-led initiatives to offer free menstrual products for students.
A survey by Thinx and PERIOD unveiled the following statistics that show the impact of period poverty on menstruating students in the U.S:
- 2/3 of the teens surveyed reported feeling stressed due to the lack of access to menstrual products in their school.
- 66% stated they don’t want to be in school during their period.
- 84% have missed a class or know someone who missed it because they don’t have access to menstrual products.
- 83% of teens believe that the impact of period poverty is not talked about enough.
- 79% feel that they lack proper education about menstrual health.
- More than half of the students surveyed feel their school does not care about them if they don’t provide free menstrual products in restrooms.
Most schools keep menstrual products in the school nurse’s office. Students can get a period product for free but will have to walk across the campus while bleeding.
Pads and tampons should be provided in restrooms, making them easily accessible to ANYONE who needs them and helping to combat the impact of period poverty. By doing this, schools can improve attendance and empower students with their education!
Work with Aunt Flow to advocate for change at YOUR school!
