What is period stigma?

Period stigma refers to the negative views on menstruation. It's also the misunderstanding around periods. Period stigma brings shame, embarrassment, and discrimination. These things have a negative impact on those who menstruate. 

Stigma often causes silence and secrecy. It can make it difficult to talk about periods. Some people may struggle to find support and resources for good menstrual health. Others may be unable to take part in school, work, or social activities. This can impact their physical and mental health. Period stigma also contributes to gender inequality.   

Breaking the stigma around periods is key to building a more inclusive and supportive society.

The roots of period stigma and taboos 

Period stigma has roots in history, culture, and religion. Anthropologists found that, in the past, menstruation was linked to impurity or danger. Women would be isolated from their community or face restrictions on activities.  

Patriarchal social systems have played a big role, too. When society tightly controls women’s bodies and sexuality, periods are seen as shameful or unclean. This reinforces gender inequality. 

Colonial histories and medical practices have also made this worse. Colonialism imported ideas of shame and stigma around menstruation. They brought these ideas to communities with existing indigenous practices. These practices were rooted in respect and rest. Colonial practices labelled menstruation as a disability or illness. In reality, it's a normal biological process. Today, this stigma continues because of: 

• misinformation 
• poor menstrual health education 
• gender discrimination in society

How period stigma shows up in daily life 

Period stigma shows up in daily life through silence, shame, and discrimination. It creates challenges that affect how people manage their periods.
 

School absenteeism   

Reports show that girls may miss school during their periods. This is not only because of a lack of accessible products. It's also out of fear of teasing, leaking, or embarrassment.   

Our Break the Barriers report found that, in the UK, 20% of girls aged 14-21 have been teased or bullied about their periods.   

Menstruation is not openly discussed in classrooms. Boys often receive little or no education about it, reinforcing period stigma. What little they do know is based on stereotypes and misconceptions. Such as a girl or woman is in a bad mood or emotional because ‘it’s that time of the month.’
 

Cultural and religious practices 

In some parts of the world, stigma can show up as restrictions on daily activities. In parts of South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, menstruating people may face exclusion. They can be forced to sleep away from others or banned from cooking. They may also be banned from religious spaces or social events. This is because they're seen as "unclean".
 

Stigma in the workplace 

A lack of private toilets, bins, or support can add to embarrassment and shame. This can make managing periods at work stressful. Employees may hide period pain or symptoms from colleagues. This is often out of fear they will be seen as unprofessional.
 

‘Pink tax’ on products 

Pads, tampons and panty liners are often priced as ‘luxury items.’ In reality, they are essential items. This ‘pink tax’ creates a financial burden. Some people must rely on unsafe options or overuse a sanitary product. This can put their health at risk. 

In 2021, the UK removed VAT from period products, like tampons and pads. But, because of the pink tax, period products can still be unaffordable for many.
 

In the media 

Adverts often show periods as something to keep quiet about. This supports the belief that periods are something to be ashamed of.

Where in the world is period stigma most common? 

Period stigma is a global issue. It's usually worse where cultural taboos, lack of education, and a lack of access to menstrual products overlap. 

South Asia: In parts of Nepal and India, some believe that menstruating women are “unclean.” This belief has led to practices like chhaupadi. The practice bans women from the home during their period. It has now been legally banned but is still practised in some rural areas. 

East and Southeast Asia: In some countries, stigma shows up in everyday behaviours such as buying products. When someone purchases a sanitary product in Japan, it's wrapped in a paper bag. This is to avoid embarrassment.  

In 2018 a study was carried out by Plan International Indonesia. They found that 39% of schoolgirls faced abuse from classmates during their period. 

Sub-Saharan Africa: Teasing and shame exist in schools and communities. They can affect education and wellbeing. This is especially prevalent in Uganda and Kenya. 

Global majority: Period stigma also exists in places like the UK, North America and Europe. Many people feel embarrassed about their periods or try to hide them. This happens even where products are available.   

Our research shows that 48% of girls in the UK feel embarrassed by their period. 20% of girls aged 14-21 in the UK have experienced teasing or bullying around their periods.

How period stigma harms girls and women 

Period stigma harms girls and women. It reinforces silence, shame, and unequal treatment. When menstruation is seen as dirty or embarrassing, it holds people back from daily life, like school or work. It also chips away at their dignity and confidence. This can have an impact on mental health and well-being.
 

Exclusion and discrimination 

Period stigma can lead to exclusion and discrimination, such as: 

• restrictions on movement 
• prevention from joining school or religious activities 
• workplace and economic disadvantages 

If girls can't find affordable menstrual products, they might not go to school. Women are also stopped from going to work. In some cases, people may have to trade things to get menstrual products. This is a form of economic vulnerability.
 

Mental health impacts 

Period stigma affects mental health. Shame, fear of leaking, teasing, or humiliation can lead to anxiety, lower self-esteem, and stress. This is especially hard for young people.
 

How stigma affects girls’ access to education 

Period stigma impacts access to education. Girls may miss school due to embarrassment, lack of support, or poor facilities at school. They may also fear bullying during their periods.   

Period stigma creates shame, fear, and silence. It can cause students to miss school and take part less. When periods are seen as embarrassing or “unclean,” girls may fear teasing, leaking, or humiliation at school. This is worse when teachers and male students don’t have menstrual health education.  

In sub-Saharan Africa, UNESCO estimates that in some cases up to one in ten girls miss school during their periods. Stigma and unsupportive environments make this worse. In Kenya and Uganda, studies cited by UNICEF and Plan International report that girls avoid school due to fear of teasing.  

In South Asia, cultural taboos can limit girls’ movement during their periods. In parts of Nepal, the practice of chhaupadi has forced girls to stay home or in separate huts. This disrupts their schooling.  

In the UK, research shows that girls have missed school due to embarrassment or stigma around periods.

Challenges of period stigma in schools 

Period stigma in schools harms learning, health, and confidence. 

Poor menstrual education can leave students confused. Boys may receive little to no information at all. This reinforces myths and teasing.   

Students who menstruate may be bullied or feel embarrassed. This can happen due to visible leaks or carrying period products. Many schools also do not provide free period products. A lack of access contributes to period poverty.  

When bathroom facilities are lacking, they can make handling periods at school even harder. Facilities like disposal bins are vital. Without the right support, some students may even miss school when they're on their period. 

But there are not only physical challenges. Stigma can lead to stress, anxiety, and lower self-esteem. Cultural or religious taboos can make it hard for people to discuss menstruation. This can restrict support and awareness of periods.
 

Shame and secrecy in education 

In schools, shame and secrecy around periods often begin with silence. 

When periods are treated as awkward, students think menstruation is something to hide or feel ashamed of. But periods are a normal biological process. Silence can come from a lack of classroom discussion. It can also stem from teachers feeling uncomfortable discussing the topic. Health education that separates students by gender can also worsen the stigma. It reinforces the idea that periods are “embarrassing”, inappropriate to talk about or a ‘girls’ problem’. Students may feel unable to ask questions, seek help, or even carry menstrual products. They may fear judgment or teasing.  

Secrecy can create feelings of isolation. For example, a student experiencing their first period at school may feel panicked or ashamed. They may think they are the only one going through it. Our research found that one in seven (14%) girls didn’t know what was happening when they started their first period. More than a quarter (26%) didn’t know what to do.  

Fear of visible leaks, stains, or odours can create constant anxiety. It leads students to withdraw socially. They may avoid class discussions, sports, or other activities. This ongoing stress can lower self-esteem. It can make students hyper-aware of their bodies in negative ways.  

Cultural and social taboos reinforce this shame. In some communities, menstruation is framed as impure or something to hide. This can deepen students’ sense of embarrassment. Because of this, they may avoid talking even to trusted adults about pain, irregular cycles, or health concerns. This could delay important medical attention.  

It's vital to break the silence through education and open discussion. Not only can this reduce stigma. It also supports students' wellbeing and education.
 

The need for period education for all genders 

Period education is essential for all genders. Menstruation is a normal biological process. It affects not only those who experience it directly, but also their communities.  

When only girls are taught about periods, it suggests that menstruation is secretive. It may even make girls feel ashamed. Including all genders helps normalise the topic. It cuts down on misinformation and builds a more supportive school environment. 

Teaching boys and other genders helps stop teasing and bullying. Much of the stigma around periods comes from ignorance, since students may mock what they don’t understand. Learning the science behind periods makes it less mysterious. It's less likely to be treated as something embarrassing or shameful. This shift can reduce shame and anxiety for students who menstruate. 

Inclusive education encourages empathy and respect. When students learn about the impact of periods, they can grasp what others experience. This awareness helps them to be more compassionate, rather than judgmental.  

Period education advances gender equality. Open discussion sparks change, such as offering free period products. This helps prevent students from missing school. As a result, gender gaps in education begin to close.  

Period education for all genders prepares students for life outside of school. Everyone in society gains from learning about menstrual health. 

Inclusive period education can: 

• reduce stigma 
• improve emotional well-being 
• strengthen school communities 
• support long-term social equality
   

How stigma affects access to products 

Period stigma is rooted in cultural taboos, gender norms, and misinformation. This seriously affects access to menstrual products.  

When periods are treated as "dirty", people may feel embarrassed to talk about their needs or ask for supplies. This silence reduces public awareness and education. In turn, it contributes to period poverty.  

Period stigma also influences policy. Period products have long been priced as ‘luxury goods’. This is also known as ‘the pink tax’. Governments have been slow to see them as essential health items. In 2020, Scotland became the first country in the world to make period products free nationwide. In 2021, VAT was removed from conventional period products in the UK. In 2024, it was also removed from period pants. But in other places, reforms like this need more campaigning and support.  

Beyond policy, stigma affects distribution and affordability. Shops might have fewer products in low-income or rural areas. Schools, shelters, and prisons might not have enough supplies. In schools, students who lack access to products may avoid asking for help. Some may miss school completely. 

Marginalised groups often face complicated barriers. They include:  

• homeless individuals 
• refugees 
• transgender or non-binary people who menstruate 

Period stigma stops funding, hinders open talks, and delays legal changes. This worsens unequal access to menstrual products. Reducing stigma is crucial. We can achieve this by focusing on education and policy changes. It can make sure menstrual products are treated as basic health essentials, not luxuries.

Tackling period stigma 

Tackling period stigma needs a varied approach. It should include: 

• open communication  
• education for all genders 
• accurate, inclusive representation in ads and media 
• addressing the link to period poverty
   

Talking openly about periods 

Periods are a normal and healthy part of life. They are nothing to be ashamed of, yet they are sometimes shrouded in shame and secrecy.   

Talking openly about periods and using the right language helps to break down stigma and shame.  

For example, some shops replace signage with 'period products' instead of 'hygiene'. This helps reject the idea that periods are 'dirty'.
 

Menstrual education 

Menstrual education plays a key role in tackling period stigma. Silence and misinformation become knowledge and conversation. But most schools don’t provide this.  

A report on menstrual health in school was carried out by UNICEF and WHO. It showed that only two out of five (39%) schools worldwide provided menstrual health education. 

When young people see menstruation as a normal part of life, it breaks taboos about it being “dirty” or shameful. But it’s not just girls who need to learn about reproductive health. When all genders are taught about menstrual health, it normalises periods. This reduces teasing, embarrassment, and exclusion.  

Education also empowers individuals who menstruate. It boosts confidence and awareness when something isn't right. When schools teach about menstruation, they signal that periods are a valid health topic. It shows that they are deserving of attention and resources.  

Menstrual education also drives change in society. When people in the community get accurate information, they are more likely to back policy reforms. This can mean providing free products or stopping unfair practices. Open conversations reduce the secrecy that fuels stigma. They can help tackle other issues, such as period poverty and support at work.   

It's vital to normalise periods and encourage inclusion. Period education helps shift the topic from shame to health and human rights.
 

Inclusive advertising and media representation 

Inclusive ads and media can help reduce period stigma. This is by: 

• normalising menstruation 
• being more inclusive about who is seen in period adverts or stories 
• challenging taboos about what periods look like and who experiences them 

Ads showing real bodies, flow, diverse identities, and honest experiences can have a huge impact. They shift the way the public sees menstrual health. 

Bodyform/Libresse created #WombStories. The campaign showed a range of experiences in menstrual and reproductive health. This helped destigmatise discussions around menstrual health.   

Thinx, the period-proof underwear brand, placed trans men and diverse bodies in its ads. The brand also used red dye rather than the typical blue dye to show menstrual blood through underwear. This helped to normalise bleeding instead of hiding it. These ads reinforce the normalcy of periods for many kinds of people.   

Representation matters because what we see in the media influences norms. By showing realistic menstruation and diversity, representation: 

• helps people feel seen and understood 
• encourages open discussion 
• reduces the idea that periods are something to hide or be ashamed of
   

The link between stigma and period poverty 

Stigma and period poverty are closely linked.  

Period taboos create physical and mental barriers to access. When periods are seen as “dirty” or shameful, it prevents open conversation. This makes it harder to find products and support. 

Silence also affects education. Schools and families may avoid discussing menstruation. This leaves young people unprepared for their first period. They may also be unaware of how to find products or facilities, which contributes to period poverty. Our report, Break the Barriers, documented girls’ experiences of periods in the UK. One in seven girls said they didn’t know what was happening when they started their first period. Meanwhile, more than a quarter (26%) didn’t know what to do.  

Period stigma also stops people from asking for help. They may feel embarrassed carrying products or asking for supplies in school or at work. It may even stop people from asking for help when they can't afford them. 

Stigma can have a negative impact on governments, institutions and policies. They may be less likely to treat period products as essential. Many countries still classify them as luxury goods, which are subject to tax.   

Through education, open talk, and policy change, we can fight stigma. These actions will ensure that we treat periods as a normal health and human rights issue.

Creating a world without shame 

It’s important to teach science-based menstrual education to all young people. It can create a world without shame. Youth-led movements and global advocacy have a powerful impact. They prove that accurate information can ensure access to products. Harmful myths are confronted, so periods are seen as normal rather than something to hide.
 

Youth-led change 

Young people can help end period stigma in powerful ways by: 

• talking openly about periods 
• teaching others about menstruation 
• campaigning for better education and products 
• leading community actions 

Amika George is a great example of youth activists creating change. Aged 17, Amika founded FreePeriods, a campaign to end period poverty. Because of this, the UK government pledged funds to provide free period products in all schools and colleges. Amika has not only boosted awareness about period poverty. She has shown the power of youth-led advocacy on important issues. 

At Plan International UK, our Period Peers Programme works with young people to break down period stigma. At the same time, it builds confidence and knowledge. This empowers young people to manage their period safely and with dignity.   

Girls and young people can support each other through peer-led activities. They can help each other to have open and inclusive conversations. This grows knowledge about menstrual health and builds confidence to seek help when needed.
 

Supporting policy and education reform 

Supporting policy and education reform helps end period stigma. It changes how people think about menstruation.  

By creating inclusive policies, governments normalise periods. Scotland, England and Wales have all passed inclusive laws. They've made period products free in schools, colleges, and some shared spaces. Laws like this treat menstrual health as a basic need, not a private problem. This helps reduce embarrassment and silence.  

Education reform is just as important. Science-based menstrual health education for all students can have a huge impact. It replaces myths with facts. Inclusive programmes promote comprehensive health education. They normalise menstruation and encourage open discussion. When young people understand what periods are and why they happen, they are less likely to see them as “dirty” or shameful.  

Strong policies and better education make sure menstruation is seen as normal. Together, they can help end stigma.

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

We refer to period poverty, shame and taboo as the toxic trio. These are barriers stopping people from accessing their right to health. They also prevent them from fully taking part in all aspects of life.   

At Plan International UK, we work with young people and communities globally to address the toxic trio.  

We do this by improving access to: 

• period and reproductive health education 
• safe toilets 
• washing facilities 
• period products 

We especially focus on those in humanitarian emergencies. They struggle to access education, products, and safe facilities. 

At Plan International UK, we work with young people to tackle stigma. Side by side, we campaigned for free period products in England and the Period Proud Wales strategy. We stand with young people to advocate for change around the world. Through activities for all genders, we tackle shame and taboo. These activities help to dispel norms and myths about periods. 

These activities mean that girls and young people don’t have to improvise with unsafe materials. They don't have to feel ashamed, or miss out on school and getting an education or doing the things they love. They can manage their periods safely and with dignity.  

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

Period stigma FAQs 

Why do some people consider periods 'dirty' or shameful?  

Throughout history, many people have seen periods as dirty or shameful. Periods are a normal biological process. But there are several reasons why these ideas came about and continue today.  

One reason is colonial influences on religion and tradition. Because of imported colonial ideas, in some religious teachings, blood from a period is seen as unclean. Menstruating people are not allowed to do certain things, like go to places of worship or cook food. These ideas were passed down through generations. They added to the belief that periods were unclean and shameful.  

Another reason is that periods are not talked about openly. Where education about periods is poor, myths start to form. Periods are also treated as something to hide. In many societies, girls are taught to stay quiet about periods. This reinforces embarrassment and shame.  

Some beliefs also come from fear or lack of understanding. People made up stories to explain things they didn’t understand. They led to ideas that menstrual blood could bring bad luck, spoil food, or make women unclean. Stories like this made periods seem shameful even though they aren't.