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Providing period products in schools is not just about convenience; it’s about ensuring equality and meeting students' basic needs. Menstruation is a regular part of life, and access to menstrual products should be as readily available as soap or toilet paper.
By offering these products, schools foster an inclusive environment where all students, regardless of gender, can participate fully in their education without being hindered by a lack of essential supplies. Ensuring access to menstrual products allows students to focus on learning, not on managing their periods unprepared, helping promote dignity and equal opportunity for all.
Access to Period Products Improves Attendance and Performance
Access to Period Products Improves Attendance and Performance
Period poverty affects many students, even in wealthier nations. For example, in the United Kingdom, nearly two million girls aged 14-21 have missed school due to their periods, often because they cannot afford or access the necessary products. This leads to more missed school days than any other single reason. (Source: UN Women, 2024)
Similarly, in the United States, around 23% of students have struggled to afford period products, and a significant percentage of these students report wearing products for longer than recommended, affecting their ability to focus on school work. (Source: Thinx & PERIOD, 2021)
Access to free menstrual products in schools can significantly reduce these issues, helping students remain focused on their education rather than being distracted by discomfort or worry. A survey in the U.S. found that 84% of students believe period products should be as readily available as toilet paper in school bathrooms. (Source: Thinx & PERIOD, 2021)
Menstrual Equity is a Global Movement
Menstrual Equity is a Global Movement
Several nations are leading the way in ensuring that schools provide free period products. You can too!
Scotland became the first country in the world to make period products free for anyone who needs them, including in schools, starting in 2020.
New Zealand implemented a similar initiative in 2021, providing free period products in schools to ensure that no student misses education due to menstruation.
As of 2024, at least 21 U.S. states have passed legislation requiring schools to provide free menstrual products to students.
These initiatives set a global standard for addressing period poverty and ensuring that no student has to miss out on learning due to a lack of access to basic hygiene necessities.
Sanitary Products are Essential for Health and Equality
Sanitary Products are Essential for Health and Equality
Sanitary products are as essential as soap and toilet paper in public restrooms. Ensuring their availability in schools helps combat the stigma and shame often associated with menstruation. In addition, providing access to menstrual products fosters a more inclusive environment where students feel supported, leading to better educational outcomes and emotional well-being.
2 in 3 teens report stress and embarrassment due to a lack of access to period products in their school. (Source: Thinx & PERIOD, 2021)
By implementing these practices, schools can play a crucial role in promoting gender equality, ensuring that all students, regardless of their menstrual status, can participate fully in academic life. Schools that fail to provide period products risk alienating a portion of their student body and perpetuating gender inequality.
Providing sanitary products in schools is not only a matter of convenience but a vital step toward achieving equality and empowering your student body.
For less than $1 per menstruating student per month, you can help create a safe, stigma-free environment—take action now to support your students' well-being and success!
For less than $1 per menstruating student per month, you can help create a safe, stigma-free environment—take action now to support your students' well-being and success!
Reach out today to design your customised solution and create a period-positive environment on campus
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