What is period poverty?

Period poverty refers to the lack of access to menstrual products, hygiene facilities, education, or adequate sanitation due to financial or social barriers. It affects people who menstruate, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. It can also lead to missed education or work, health risks, and social stigma. 

Period poverty is not just about the affordability of products. It also includes other challenges, like: 

• menstruation being a taboo subject 
• limited public awareness 
• the lack of support systems in schools, workplaces and public areas 

Understanding what period poverty means 

Around the world, more than two billion people menstruate every month. Having a period, or menstruating, is a normal, healthy process. Yet, for many, it affects their dignity, rights, and freedom of movement. 

Period poverty is about more than not being able to afford menstrual products. It’s about the broader challenges. This includes access to safe hygiene facilities and education. It also covers the social stigma in some cultures.
 

Barriers to products, education, and sanitation 

Period poverty is a multi-layered problem. It includes barriers in economics, education, culture, and structure. They affect access to products, knowledge about menstruation, and safe sanitation. 

Product barriers  

Many people simply can’t afford menstrual products. They cost beyond the reach of low-income households. And in some places, they are subject to the pink tax. 

Research shows that many people who menstruate find it hard to buy enough products, even in wealthy countries. This can lead to missed school or work and the use of unsafe alternatives. 

In rural areas and low-resource settings, products are often scarce or hard to find. This means women and girls may use cloth, paper, or other unsafe alternatives. 

Economic constraints make people choose between basic needs, like food, and menstrual products. This choice worsens poverty cycles. 

Educational barriers  

Many schools and communities around the world do not teach about periods accurately. A 2024 report by UNICEF and WHO found that only 2 out of 5 schools (39%) worldwide provide menstrual health education. In some regions, less than half of girls know about menstruation before their first period. 

Without proper information, myths and stigma grow. This leads to unhygienic practices and fear around managing periods. 

Young people can miss classes due to period-related challenges. This includes product access, pain, or lack of facilities. Absence can negatively affect learning outcomes. For example, in South Asia, up to one in three girls miss school every month because of their period. This limits their ability to reach their full potential. 

Sanitation barriers  

Many schools and public places do not have clean toilets, water, soap, or private changing areas. They also often lack bins for menstrual waste and disposal options. These things are essential for good menstrual hygiene management. 

A global report found only about 31% of schools have bins for menstrual waste. Even fewer had them in the least developed regions. 

People who menstruate need private spaces with water and disposal options. Without them, they cannot manage their period with dignity. This can lead to absenteeism in school, work, and community life. 
 

Who is affected by period poverty? 

Period poverty affects women, girls, and all people who menstruate. This includes transgender and non-binary individuals. It also covers those in both low-income and high-income countries. 

It is most likely to impact those living in poverty or financial insecurity. They might not be able to buy menstrual products or find proper sanitation facilities. According to UN Women, millions of people worldwide cannot manage their periods safely or with dignity. This is due to cost, lack of access, and stigma. 

Adolescent girls are particularly affected. Especially those of school age. There are many reasons why girls may miss school during their period. This includes: 

• lack of affordable products 
• inadequate school sanitation 
• limited menstrual health education 

Missing school can harm their learning and limit future prospects. This issue exists around the world, including in high-income countries. 

Some people face a higher risk of period poverty, such as marginalised people or those in vulnerable living situations. This includes: 

• homeless individuals 
• refugees and displaced people 
• those who are in prison 

These people often lack reliable access to period products. They may not have privacy or clean sanitation facilities either. 

Humanitarian settings and detention facilities often actively underprioritise menstrual health and hygiene needs. This further compounds vulnerability and health risks. 

Period poverty also disproportionately affects people living in rural or remote areas. This is where menstrual products may be unavailable or expensive. Water and sanitation infrastructure is also limited. 

It is estimated that around 500 million people globally experience some form of period poverty. This makes it a widespread issue linked to gender inequality, poverty, and inadequate public services rather than geography alone.

What causes period poverty? 

Period poverty is caused by a combination of factors. This includes: 

• economic 
• social 
• cultural 
• structural 

These factors limit access to menstrual products, education, and sanitation. The main causes include: 

• economic barriers 
• lack of education 
• insufficient sanitation infrastructure 
• cultural and social stigma
   

Financial hardship and the cost of products 

The cost of menstrual products is a major factor in period poverty. Many people cannot afford products needed for good menstrual care. This includes pads, tampons, and menstrual cups. It can also cover pain relief. Period poverty is very common in low-income households and areas. 

While wealthy countries may have more resources, financial insecurity can make menstrual products hard to afford. This often makes people rely on unsafe options like rags, newspapers, or leaves and grass. These alternatives can increase the risk of infection and discomfort. 

We carried out a survey in the UK in 2020. It found that three in ten girls struggled to afford or access sanitary wear during the COVID-19 lockdown. Over half of these girls used toilet paper as an alternative.
 

Cultural taboos and stigma 

Cultural taboos, myths, and social stigma can surround periods. They can stop people from talking about their needs or accessing products. In some places, menstruation is seen as 'dirty'. Women and girls may even face restrictions on education, work, or daily activities. This deepens inequality.
 

Lack of education and access to sanitation 

Many people, especially young girls, lack proper education about menstruation. In some communities, menstruation is considered taboo. Accurate information is also limited. This prevents people from managing their periods safely. They may be unable to get help when needed. This education gap supports stigma and leads to unhealthy habits. 

Good sanitation is key to reducing period poverty. Without it, period poverty can get worse. These things are necessary for good sanitation: 

• Clean water 
• Private toilets 
• Soap 
• Menstrual waste disposal facilities (such as bins) 

Schools, workplaces, and public spaces often do not have adequate facilities. This makes it difficult for people who menstruate to manage periods with dignity. This barrier is very noticeable in rural or resource-limited areas.

Period poverty in the UK statistics 

Despite being one of the richest countries in the world, period poverty not only exists in the UK. But it's also reaching critical levels. In 2025, an estimated 2.8 million people were struggling to afford sanitary products. 60% of those affected by period poverty prioritised buying food over period products.
 

Impact of the cost-of-living crisis 

The cost-of-living crisis in the UK has had a profound impact on period poverty. An ActionAid poll in 2023 found that more than one in five (21%) of people who menstruate were struggling to afford period products. This was up from 12% in just one year and equates to around 1 million more people in period poverty than the previous year.

Period poverty around the world 

Period poverty is a global issue. It impacts millions of people who menstruate, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Period poverty refers to the lack of: 

• access to affordable menstrual products 
• safe sanitation facilities 
• clean water 
• accurate information about menstruation 

It also refers to the stigma surrounding menstruation. 

According to UN Women and UNICEF, young people and adults who menstruate are forced to: 

• use unsafe materials 
• manage their periods in unhygienic conditions 
• miss school, work, and public life during menstruation 

UNESCO estimates that, in some areas, menstruation impacts girls' attendance at school. 

Period poverty is closely linked to poverty and gender inequality. It is also linked to underinvestment in water, sanitation, and health systems. Its consequences include:  

• negative health outcomes 
• reduced educational attainment 
• economic exclusion 
• loss of dignity 

Tackling period poverty is now seen as a public health issue, a human right, and key to gender equity. 
 

Period poverty in the Global South 

In the Global South, period poverty is the widespread lack of access to: 

• affordable menstrual products 
• safe sanitation facilities 
• clean water 
• education about menstruation 

It also refers to the stigma and taboos that surround periods. Period poverty is not just about products. It also covers dignity, health, education, and gender equality. International organisations like UN Women, CARE International, ActionAid, and UNESCO describe period poverty as a structural issue. It’s linked to poverty, gender inequality, and a lack of investment in public services. 

In the Global South, menstrual products like disposable pads or tampons are often too costly or hard to find. This is especially true in rural areas. As a result, many women and girls rely on materials such as old cloth, rags, paper, or leaves. ActionAid reports that about 65% of women and girls in Kenya can't afford basic menstrual products. This problem is compounded by the lack of clean water and private sanitation. CARE International notes that over 1.5 billion people globally lack basic sanitation services. Many people in the Global South face challenges with safe menstrual hygiene management.
 

Challenges in humanitarian settings 

Period poverty is very serious in humanitarian settings. This includes refugee camps, conflict zones, and places hit by natural disasters. Displacement often disrupts access to menstrual products, clean water, and safe sanitation facilities. It makes it difficult to manage periods with dignity. Humanitarian responses often focus on food, shelter, and medical care. Menstrual health needs are often underfunded or ignored. As a result, people who menstruate may receive inadequate or irregular supplies, or none at all. 

Lack of privacy is a major challenge. Overcrowded camps often have shared or poorly lit toilets. They may not have locks, water, or disposal systems. This increases stress, embarrassment, and the risk of harassment or gender-based violence. Cultural stigma around menstruation can be intensified in these environments. Stigma limits open discussion and access to information. Health risks increase when people can’t change products often or wash them well. This can lead to infections. Addressing menstrual health in humanitarian settings is vital for protection, health, and dignity. 

What are the effects of period poverty? 

Period poverty has many effects that can last a long time. It impacts education, health and well-being. It even has wider economic and social consequences.
 

Impact on education 

Period poverty has a significant impact on education. Around the world, many schools lack: 

• gender-segregated toilets 
• clean water for washing 
• facilities for disposing of menstrual waste 

UNESCO estimates that in parts of sub-Saharan Africa, up to one in ten girls miss school during their period. These absences accumulate over time. They lead to poor grades, more dropouts, and fewer job opportunities in the future. 

Studies in Latin America echo this pattern. Research cited by the International Review of Education shows that many students miss school during their periods. They worry about leakage, feel embarrassed, or lack supplies. 

In the UK, a poll by ActionAid in 2023 found that 13% have missed school, university, or college because of their periods.
 

Impact on health and wellbeing 

Health effects are another key aspect of period poverty. Unsafe practices can increase the risk of infections and skin irritation. These practices include: 

• using unhygienic materials 
• being unable to change materials regularly 
• leaving products like tampons in for too long 
• lacking water for washing 

Poor menstrual hygiene can lead to long-term health risks, especially for those with limited access to healthcare.
 

Economic and social consequences 

The economic and social effects of period poverty can be severe. For families in extreme poverty, menstrual products compete with food and other basics. ActionAid carried out research into the consequences. In some areas, girls might turn to transactional sex to get money or items for managing their periods. This exposes them to violence, exploitation, and health risks. These realities show how period poverty overlaps with broader issues. This includes poverty, violence against women, and economic inequality. 

Our own study found that over a third of girls aged 14-21 in the UK had trouble affording or accessing menstrual products during the COVID-19 pandemic. This was a 20% increase from the previous year.

How to end period poverty 

Ending period poverty requires coordinated action. This should span policy, infrastructure, education, and social norms. No single solution is enough on its own. Here are five ways to help end period poverty: 

1. Access to affordable or free menstrual products 

Governments, humanitarian agencies, and schools can provide products through a few channels: public health systems, social programmes, and emergency responses. Removing taxes on menstrual products can lower costs. Supporting local, reusable products also boosts sustainability. 

2. Invest in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure 

Good water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities are key. This covers private toilets, water, soap, and disposal facilities. WASH facilities are critical in schools and workplaces. They are also vital for refugee camps and informal settlements. 

3. Menstrual health education for all genders 

Accurate, age-appropriate information helps people manage menstruation safely. It can also reduce stigma. Schools and community health programmes should integrate education into their curricula. 

4. Address stigma and gender inequality 

Public campaigns, community engagement, and legal protections can challenge harmful taboos. They ensure menstruation is treated as a normal health issue, not a source of shame. 

5. Integrate menstrual health into health, education, and humanitarian policies 

Organisations such as UN Women, UNICEF, WHO, and UNHCR emphasise that ending period poverty is a matter of public health, human rights, and gender equity, and must be embedded in long-term development and emergency planning.
 

The role of free period products 

Free period products play a crucial role in reducing and eventually ending period poverty. They remove a major financial and practical barrier to menstrual health. For many, buying disposable products adds up. This expense competes with basic needs like food, water, and healthcare. Giving products for free helps menstruating people manage their periods safely and with dignity. No matter their income. 

In schools, free period products help prevent absenteeism. UNESCO and UNICEF say that girls in low and middle-income countries often skip school during their periods. This is mainly due to not having the right products or worrying about leaks. Governments and organisations can supply free products in schools, workplaces, and community spaces. This can cut disruptions and boost education and productivity. In turn, it can support gender equality. 

Free products also help normalise menstruation and reduce stigma. When menstrual products are available to everyone as a right, society sees menstruation as a normal health need. This helps remove the shame around it.

How we are putting an end to period poverty, shame, and taboo 

At Plan International UK, we refer to period poverty, shame, and taboo as the toxic trio. These are obstacles that stop people who menstruate from accessing their right to health. But it also prevents them from taking part fully in all aspects of life. 

We work with young people and communities around the world to tackle the toxic trio. Our focus is on those living in humanitarian emergencies who face greater obstacles. 

Together we help to improve access to: 

• safe toilets 
• washing facilities 
• period products 
• health services 
• education 

We tackle shame and taboo by delivering activities for all genders. These help to dispel gender norms and harmful myths about girls and periods. 

We carry out a range of research and campaigns. For example, calling on the government to deliver free period products in England and the Period Proud Wales strategy. We stand with young people to advocate for change. 

All these activities mean that girls don’t have to improvise with unsafe materials, feel ashamed, or miss out on school or doing the things they love. They can manage their periods with dignity. 

Help us end period poverty, stigma, and taboo by donating to Fierce Voices.

FAQs 

Is period poverty only an issue in developing countries? 

No, period poverty is a global issue. It affects developing countries and high-income countries. In lower-income countries, challenges may include: 

• limited access to menstrual products 

• clean water 

• sanitation facilities 

• menstrual health education 

In high income countries, period poverty is usually linked to: 

• the cost of period products 

• stigma 

• a lack of affordable housing 

• financial hardship 

For example, in the US, one in four teenagers and one in three adults struggle to afford period products. This is particularly common in lower-income households. 

Period poverty is therefore not only about access to products. But it’s also about the wider social, economic, and educational barriers that can make managing menstruation difficult.
 

What are some solutions to ending period poverty? 

Some key solutions to ending period poverty include: 

Providing free or affordable menstrual products. These can be given in schools, workplaces, and communities to ensure everyone can manage their periods safely. 

Improving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities. This includes private toilets, running water, soap, and safe disposal systems. 

Expanding menstrual health education for all genders. This reduces stigma, promotes safe practices, and increases awareness. 

Challenging cultural taboos and stigma. Through campaigns and community engagement, periods can become a normal health topic. 

Integrating menstrual health into policies and programmes. This ensures it is part of public health, education, and emergency response planning.