Definition:

• Refers to the lack of access to menstrual products, education, and facilities, as well as the stigma surrounding menstruation. It affects individuals who cannot afford or access menstrual products, leading to unhygienic practices and missed school or work days. Period poverty is a global issue that disproportionately affects low-income individuals and marginalized communities.

Notes:

• More than a quarter of women face period poverty

• Not only economics - shame and embarrassment

• Often a luxury as people are focusing on other things

• 17% of Australians are unable to afford period products

• 27% of those who are unemployed

• 22% use makeshift products

• Covid has made things worse • Use cotton balls, a face washer and toilet paper for a makeshift pad

• Share the dignity has donated more than 3 million products to people in need

• 2019 was the first year without a tampon tax

• Many remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities do not have access to clean water, working toilets, or cheap period products.

• Share the dignity is giving them access to free period products

• Menstrual Health and Hygiene (MHH) aims to give the ability for women, young women and girls to use a clean material to absorb or collect menstrual blood, have access to menstrual hygiene products and underwear.