Info Drop: Period Poverty

What is Period Poverty?

Period poverty refers to the lack of access to safe, hygienic menstrual products, adequate sanitation facilities, and proper education about menstruation. It affects millions of people around the world—primarily women and girls, who face financial, social, or cultural barriers to managing their periods with dignity and safety. Without these essentials, managing menstruation can become a source of shame, discomfort, and serious health risks. It might not affect you, but maybe people you know:

For those that don’t know me, which I realize is most of you reading this, I was Miss Hawaii Island Teen USA 2023. During that time, I was able to volunteer with many charities and support countless causes. One of those causes was a period product drive organized by the reigning Miss Hawaii Island USA 2023, the Miss title to my Teen title.

While I wasn’t involved in running the drive, I did support it by donating products. More importantly, I had a heartfelt conversation with my sister queen about why this drive mattered so deeply. She shared stories of people she knows personally who have experienced period poverty, young girls missing school, women making tough choices between groceries and hygiene products, and the emotional toll it takes to feel ashamed of something completely natural.

I am fortunate enough to have never experienced period poverty myself, but through that conversation, I began to understand just how serious and widespread the issue is. It opened my eyes to the many barriers people face, not just to accessing pads or tampons, but to feeling safe, dignified, and supported in their own bodies.

Period poverty is influenced by so many factors: economic hardship, lack of education, cultural stigma, and systemic neglect. It’s not just about hygiene; it’s about equity, mental health, and the freedom to live your life without shame or interruption because of your period.

That moment of learning stuck with me. It reminded me that advocacy doesn’t always mean speaking from experience. Sometimes it means listening, learning, and using your voice to elevate the stories of others.

By donating, I took a small step. But by understanding, I took a lasting one.

I may not know the struggle firsthand, but I do know it’s real, and no one should have to face it alone. If you're reading this and wondering what you can do, consider donating, starting a conversation, or simply challenging the silence that surrounds periods. Small acts of awareness can lead to big change.

Because everyone deserves dignity: every day of the month, every month of the year, , and every year of their life.

~ Elaina Kristine Head, Founder & CEO

Economic Impact:

For many individuals living in poverty, menstrual products are considered a luxury rather than a necessity. The high cost of pads, tampons, or menstrual cups forces many to make difficult choices, often sacrificing food, healthcare, or other basic needs. In some regions, taxes on menstrual products (often called the "tampon tax") further increase the financial burden. This economic strain can perpetuate cycles of poverty and inequality.

Health Risks:

Inadequate menstrual hygiene can lead to infections such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), bacterial vaginosis, and other reproductive tract infections. Using unsafe materials like rags, leaves, or newspapers can cause irritation, discomfort, and long-term health problems. Additionally, lack of clean and private sanitation facilities can discourage proper hygiene practices, increasing vulnerability to disease.

Educational Barriers:

Many girls face significant challenges attending school during their periods. In some communities, stigma and cultural taboos around menstruation cause girls to miss several days of school each month. Others lack access to private bathrooms or menstrual products at school, leading to embarrassment and absenteeism. This disruption can affect their academic performance, reduce their opportunities for education, and contribute to early dropout rates.

Global Issue:

Period poverty is a worldwide problem that transcends borders and socioeconomic status. While it is most acute in developing countries, marginalized populations in wealthy nations also face challenges accessing menstrual products and education. Refugees, homeless people, incarcerated individuals, and those living in rural areas often experience compounded difficulties.

The History of Menstrual Stigma

Menstruation has been surrounded by stigma and taboo for centuries. Across many cultures and religions, periods were often seen as unclean or shameful, leading to silence and secrecy around a natural bodily process. These outdated beliefs have shaped how society treats menstruation today — fueling embarrassment, discrimination, and misinformation. Understanding the historical roots of menstrual stigma helps us challenge these harmful attitudes and create a more open, supportive environment for everyone who menstruates.

Environmental Impact of Menstrual Products

While disposable menstrual products like pads and tampons provide convenience, they also create significant environmental challenges. Millions of single-use products are discarded every day, contributing to landfill waste and plastic pollution. Many conventional products contain non-biodegradable materials and chemicals that can harm ecosystems. Fortunately, eco-friendly alternatives such as menstrual cups, reusable cloth pads, and biodegradable products are gaining popularity. Choosing sustainable options can reduce environmental harm and promote healthier choices for both people and the planet.

Knowing that these are not always the most affordable options, there are also brand on the market, such as Lola, CORA, The Honey Pot, or Rael, that carry safer period products. For more information please check out our recommendations page.

The Role of Men and Boys in Ending Period Poverty

Period poverty is often seen as a women’s issue, but ending stigma and improving access requires everyone’s involvement, including men and boys. Educating men about menstruation fosters empathy and breaks down harmful myths, empowering them to become allies in promoting menstrual equity. When families, communities, and policymakers include men in conversations about periods, it creates a more supportive environment for those affected by period poverty and helps drive meaningful change.

Period Poverty in the Workplace

Managing menstruation at work can be a challenge for many. Lack of access to menstrual products, inadequate bathroom facilities, and the stigma around periods often make it difficult for menstruating employees to focus and feel comfortable during their cycles. Some workplaces still don’t provide menstrual products or allow flexible policies for period-related needs. Advocating for better workplace policies, including free menstrual products, private and clean restrooms, and supportive leave options, is crucial to ensuring menstrual health and dignity at work.

Awareness & Action:

Raising awareness & advocating for better access to affordable menstrual products, education, & hygiene facilities can help combat period poverty & promote positive health and well being.

How You Can Help: Join the Movement to End Period Poverty

You have the power to make a real difference in someone’s life, and it starts with small, meaningful actions. Whether it’s donating menstrual products to local shelters, volunteering your time with grassroots organizations, or simply sparking conversations that break the silence around periods, your support matters. Every product donated, every voice raised, and every dollar contributed helps ensure that no one has to miss out on school, work, or life because of their period. Together, we can create a world where everyone manages their periods with dignity and confidence.

Follow along on Instagram @powher.co for more real information, shared stories, and tools that support your power. 🩷

Tuning in from outside the U.S.? We’d love to hear how these topics show up in your life. Your voice matters, and your experience helps us all grow.

With love,

POWHER.co