Period Poverty in the U.S.: The Silent Struggle Millions Face

While periods are a natural part of life, access to menstrual products is still a challenge for many. Period poverty—the lack of access to sanitary products, education, and facilities—is a growing public health issue in the U.S. that affects millions of menstruating individuals each year.

What Is Period Poverty?

Period poverty refers to inadequate access to:

- Menstrual hygiene products (pads, tampons, liners)
- Safe and clean restrooms
- Comprehensive menstrual education

It can lead to missed school or work, social stigma, and poor mental and physical health outcomes.

Shocking U.S. Statistics

- 1 in 4 teens in the U.S. has missed class due to lack of access to period products
 ➡️ Source: Women for Women

-
Nearly 21% of students struggle to afford period products monthly
➡️ Source: National Education Association (NEA)

-
Only 22 states mandate menstrual health education in schools
➡️ Source: Alliance for Period Supplies

Who’s Affected?

Period poverty disproportionately impacts:

- Low-income families
- Students
- Unhoused individuals
- Incarcerated people
- People of color

Why It Matters

Lack of menstrual supplies can result in:

- Increased risk of infections from unsafe alternatives
- Poor self-esteem and social isolation
- Missed academic and economic opportunities


How You Can Help

💜 Donate to support access to menstrual products and education. Every contribution helps break the stigma and support people in need.

👉 Click Here to Donate through the Naturalena Foundation.

You can also:

- Advocate for free menstrual products in schools
- Support brands and policies that prioritize menstrual equity
- Start conversations to normalize period talk

#PeriodPoverty #MenstrualEquity #EndPeriodPoverty #PeriodTalk #WomensHealth #DignityForAll #PeriodAwareness #SupportMenstrualHealth

 

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