How Can We Address the Period Poverty Definition?

The period poverty definition according to the American Medical Women’s Association, is when women have “…inadequate access to menstrual hygiene tools and education, includes but not limited to sanitary products, washing facilities and waste management.”[1] Many women across the world, an estimated 500 million, fall into this category.[2]

A study done by the Global Menstrual Collective states that in order to have complete menstrual health, women need the following:

• access to information about menstruation, life changes and hygiene practices
• the ability to care for themselves during menstruation
• access to water, sanitation and hygiene services
• the ability to receive a diagnosis for menstrual cycle disorders and access to healthcare a positive and supportive environment in which to make informed decisions
• the ability to participate in all aspects of life like work and school.[3]

Even in the United States, one of the wealthiest nations in the world, 35 states tax period products, and food stamps don’t cover them, meaning it is difficult for many women to afford menstrual products.[4] The problem is more severe in impoverished nations; there are many countries in the world where even the most basic of these points—like clean water, toilets and healthcare—are out of reach, so period poverty continues.