Menstruation is a natural biological process that affects over half the world’s population, yet for millions of girls and women, it remains a monthly source of hardship, shame, and exclusion.
This challenge, often referred to as menstrual poverty, goes beyond the lack of sanitary products it encompasses limited access to clean water, poor sanitation facilities, cultural taboos, and inadequate education about menstrual health.
Across many communities, particularly in low-income areas, girls are forced to use unsafe alternatives like rags, old newspapers, or even leaves during their menstrual periods.
Some miss school for several days every month, leading to learning gaps and eventually, higher dropout rates.
The lack of affordable sanitary pads and the stigma surrounding menstruation continue to reinforce gender inequality and hinder social and economic development.
Addressing menstrual poverty requires a multi-dimensional approach. First, governments must prioritize menstrual health management within national health, education, and gender policies.
Providing free or subsidized sanitary products in schools and public health centres can help ensure that no girl misses school because of her period.
Second, education plays a vital role. Comprehensive menstrual health education should be integrated into school curricula for both boys and girls. When communities are better informed, the stigma and myths surrounding menstruation begin to fade.
Third, investment in WASH Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene infrastructure is crucial.
Access to clean water, safe toilets, and proper waste disposal facilities ensures that menstrual hygiene can be managed safely and with dignity.
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), such as the MN-NoW project implemented by Population Services International (PSI) in Nigeria, the media, and community leaders also have a key role to play in breaking the silence and normalizing conversations about menstruation.
PSI Nigeria theme for the international day of the girl child 2025: “The Girl I am, the Change I Lead’: Girls on the Frontlines of Period Poverty”
Supporting local production of reusable or low-cost sanitary pads can also create jobs while promoting sustainability.
Ultimately, menstrual poverty is not just a women’s issue, it is a human rights and public health issue. Overcoming it means ensuring every girl and woman can manage her period safely, confidently, and without shame.
When we end menstrual poverty, we empower women, strengthen communities, and move closer to achieving gender equality.
Governments, communities, and individuals all have a role to play. It’s time to act because periods shouldn’t pause progress.