Understanding Period Poverty: A Global Call to Action

Introduction

Period poverty remains a silent crisis, impacting millions of women and girls worldwide.

Beyond the lack of access to menstrual products, this issue is deeply intertwined with inadequate clean water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities.

These challenges exacerbate the stigma and barriers surrounding menstruation, particularly in developing regions like West Africa. It’s time to address this pressing issue with sustainable solutions.

The Scope of the Problem

According to UNICEF, over 500 million women and girls globally lack access to menstrual products and proper sanitation facilities. In West Africa, the situation is dire:

• Missed Education: UNESCO reports that 1 in 10 girls in Sub-Saharan Africa misses school during their menstrual cycle due to a lack of products and facilities.

• Health Risks: Without access to clean water and hygienic products, women are forced to use unsafe alternatives like rags, leaves, or even ashes, leading to infections and long-term health complications.

• Social Stigma: Period poverty is compounded by cultural taboos that label menstruation as “unclean,” further isolating women and girls during their cycles.

The Role of Clean Water and Hygiene

Access to clean water is essential for managing menstruation safely. Without it, women cannot wash reusable products like menstrual cups or maintain basic hygiene. The lack of clean water also increases the risk of urinary tract infections and other health issues, making menstruation a dangerous time for many.

Potential Solutions

1. Sustainable Menstrual Products: Menstrual cups and reusable pads are cost-effective and environmentally friendly solutions that reduce reliance on disposable products.

2. Improved Sanitation Infrastructure: Building gender-sensitive toilets with access to clean water in schools and communities is critical.

3. Education and Awareness: Teaching women and girls about menstrual hygiene, as well as engaging men and boys to break the stigma, can drive cultural change.

4. Policy Advocacy: Governments must prioritize menstrual health by subsidizing menstrual products and investing in water and sanitation infrastructure.

How Cups of Change is Making a Difference

At Cups of Change, we distribute menstrual cups and other menstrual health options and provide education on their use, emphasizing the importance of hygiene. Our programs advocate for clean water access or other solutions such as Milton tablets or other, and work to dismantle the stigma surrounding menstruation. By empowering women and girls with sustainable solutions, we’re addressing both the immediate and systemic challenges of period poverty.

Join the Movement

Together, we can create a world where no woman or girl is held back by her period. Learn More on Our Website and blogposts.

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