Period Health

Period Health

Between the ages of 8 and 15, girls and people with vaginas usually start their monthly menstrual cycle. A delay in this process is typically not a concern, as most girls will have regular periods by ages 16 to 18.

Every month, the ovaries release an egg, which is called ovulation. The egg travels down the fallopian tubes to the uterus, also known as the womb. At the same time, the lining of the uterus thickens with blood and tissue to prepare for a potential pregnancy. This lining provides nutrients for a fetus.

If the egg is not fertilized by sperm, it will be shed through the vagina, along with the lining of the uterus. This shedding is called a period, and it is when a person bleeds from the vagina for several days.

Most women have their period about every 28 days, but it can vary from every 21 to 35 days. Periods can last from 2 to 7 days, with the average being about 5 days. The bleeding is usually heaviest during the first two days.

When bleeding is heavy, the blood appears red. On lighter days, it may look pink or brown. During a period, a person typically loses about 20 to 90 ml (1 to 5 tablespoons) of blood, though some may bleed more.

How a woman feels about her period can affect her experience. Early experiences can shape current feelings. Think about your first experiences: Were they good or bad? Did you feel ready, or were you confused? How do you feel about your period now? Do you welcome it or dislike it? Is it a bother or a natural part of life? How does your partner respond to it?

Studies show that women with supportive partners, friends, family, teachers, and employers handle menstrual symptoms better. A history of verbal, sexual, or physical assault can affect your health and period experiences. It’s a good idea to talk to a doctor about your concerns. They may refer you to a psychologist for help in understanding your feelings and how they affect your body and period symptoms.

Even though menstruation is a normal part of life, many women feel their periods interrupt daily activities. You might feel tired or have mild discomfort, like cramps, leading you to rest with a hot water bottle. Serious pain or heavy bleeding should be checked by a doctor. However, low-level discomfort can often be managed with lifestyle changes. Eating a healthy diet, lowering salt and caffeine intake, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and managing stress can improve your quality of life and lessen symptoms like mood swings and painful periods.

Conditions Associated with Periods

There are a variety of conditions associated with periods. We hope to guide you through some of the expected conditions and offer advice to help with the symptoms.

PMS (premenstrual syndrome)

Changes in hormone levels in your body before your period can lead to various physical and emotional changes. This condition is known as PMS (premenstrual syndrome) or PMT (premenstrual tension). Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may begin days or even weeks before your period starts. The symptoms of PMS can change throughout your life due to factors such as age, pregnancy, menopause, and stress.

People may experience PMS (premenstrual syndrome) due to hormonal changes. Most researchers think PMS happens after ovulation because oestrogen and progesterone levels drop sharply in people who are not pregnant.

Symptoms usually get better when your period starts and go away a few days later. Not everyone has PMS, but many people who have periods do. Some individuals with PMS have severe symptoms that can disrupt their daily activities.

Good news! You can find treatments to help with your symptoms. You can make changes to your lifestyle, use medications, or try a combination of both. If PMS is affecting your daily life, it’s a good idea to talk to a clinician for support.

How PMS Changes With Age

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms can vary throughout your lifetime. Factors such as pregnancy, stress, sensitivity to hormonal changes, perimenopause, and menopause can all influence how you experience PMS. The way PMS affects you can differ based on your age:

• In your 20s: PMS symptoms are generally milder and less frequent in your 20s compared to later years.
• In your 30s: In your early 30s, you can typically expect your PMS symptoms to be similar to those you experienced in your 20s. However, as you enter your late 30s and approach perimenopause, these symptoms may begin to worsen. This worsening can also occur if you have given birth or have a history of postpartum depression.
• In your 40s: You may notice that your PMS symptoms become more severe as you enter perimenopause. Perimenopause usually begins in your mid to late 40s and lasts for about four years, leading up to menopause, when your periods stop completely. During this time, your typical PMS symptoms may become more intense and may be accompanied by hot flashes and vaginal dryness.

When To Contact a GP

You can usually treat PMS symptoms at home. If your symptoms don’t improve with treatment or are so severe that they disrupt your daily life, talk to a clinician. If you have thoughts of self-harm, seek help immediately.

There is no specific test for diagnosing PMS. During your appointment, your doctor will ask about your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle.

If you have symptoms after your period ends, your GP may order tests to check for other conditions that could be causing them. They may use different methods to understand your symptoms better.

• Symptom tracking: Keep a record of your symptoms over several menstrual cycles to help your clinician identify patterns.
• Physical or pelvic exam: This eliminates any conditions that may impact your reproductive organs.
• Blood tests: Checks for anemia or thyroid disorders
• Urine test: Assesses whether you have a urinary tract infection or are pregnant
• Psychological assessment: This text explores the possibility of having a mental health condition that could be contributing to certain symptoms.
• Imaging tests: Helps your clinician take a better look at your reproductive organs for signs of scarring or inflammation

If your symptoms are severe, you may be experiencing premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)—a severe form of PMS that can cause extreme pain and emotional symptoms such as anxiety, depressive moods, or suicidal thoughts. While PMS is common, PMDD affects about 3% to 8% of people who have periods.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Some individuals may experience severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms due to a condition known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). PMDD is more likely to develop in individuals during their late 20s and 30s and affects less than 5% of those who menstruate.

Many symptoms of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) are similar to those experienced during normal premenstrual syndrome (PMS); however, the symptoms of PMDD are usually more severe. These symptoms typically begin one to two weeks before your period and may last for two to three days after menstruation starts. A healthcare professional may prescribe medications or recommend relaxation techniques to help alleviate these symptoms.

Period Pain (Dysmenorrhea)

The medical term for period pain is dysmenorrhea. It happens because of hormones called prostaglandins, which increase right before your period starts and during the first few days. This pain can feel like menstrual cramps in your uterus, but you might also feel it in your back, joints, and muscles. There are two types of dysmenorrhea: primary and secondary.

Primary dysmenorrhea

The cramping pain you feel before and during your period is caused by natural chemicals in your body called prostaglandins. These chemicals are produced in the lining of the uterus. Prostaglandins make the uterine muscles contract to help the body shed the uterine lining through the vagina during menstrual bleeding.

On the first day of your period, there are high levels of prostaglandins. As the lining sheds and bleeding continues, these levels drop. This is why the pain usually becomes less intense after the first few days. In some cases, called primary dysmenorrhea, the body produces more prostaglandins than normal. Higher levels of prostaglandins lead to stronger contractions and more painful cramps.

Secondary dysmenorrhea is period pain caused by an underlying health condition, such as:

• Uterine fibroids
• Tumors
• Endometriosis
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Adenomyosis is a condition where tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus grows into the uterine muscles.
• Uterine polyps

Scarring from past surgeries or the use of an intrauterine device (IUD) can cause secondary dysmenorrhea, which is pain that worsens over time. This pain often lasts longer than regular period cramps.

If you have an IUD, the pain should ease within three to six months. If it doesn’t, your doctor may suggest removing the IUD and trying a different birth control option. A similar option, called an intrauterine system (IUS), releases hormones and may help with painful periods.

Most people who menstruate feel some pain during their period. This pain is usually manageable. However, for some, the pain can be so severe that it causes them to miss school or work.

What Does Period Pain Feel Like?

Everyone experiences period pain differently. The severity and location of the pain can vary from person to person, as our reactions to and tolerances for pain are unique.

Typically, cramps are felt in the lower back or abdomen, but some individuals may also experience cramps in other areas, such as the bowels and rectum. Generally, cramps tend to be more intense during the first day or two of menstruation.

If you have heavy periods with large blood clots, you may experience more intense cramping than usual. However, even if you only have light bleeding, you might still experience severe cramps.

When pain becomes severe and affects your quality of life, it presents a different challenge. Up to 20% of women experience cramps that are severe enough to interfere with their daily activities. This pain is often endured in silence. Many women suffer from debilitating cramps that make it difficult to manage their usual responsibilities, such as work and school. Unfortunately, a significant number either push through the pain, continuing their tasks in silence, or, when the pain becomes overwhelming, feel the need to hide the reasons for taking time off.

Perimenopause

Your Periods May Change During Perimenopause. Perimenopause is the stage in a woman’s life just before menopause, when your period stops completely and you can no longer get pregnant. You are in menopause if you haven’t had a period for a full year. This usually happens around age 52.

Perimenopause, which means “around menopause,” typically begins in your mid- to late 40s. During this time, your hormone levels will change. You may ovulate during some cycles and not during others. Because of this, your periods may become irregular. They might be longer and heavier, shorter and lighter, or a mix of both.

You may also feel more anxious or depressed during perimenopause. If you are worried about symptoms of perimenopause, talk to your healthcare provider.

What’s the Best way to deal with PMS and period pains?

There are several strategies you can use to help relieve pain during your menstrual period. If you experience secondary dysmenorrhea, it is important to consult your general practitioner about treating the underlying condition. For instance, in cases of endometriosis, surgery may be the best option for addressing painful symptoms.

However, if you have primary dysmenorrhea, there are many methods you can try to manage period pain. For individuals with mild symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), lifestyle changes and minor alternative therapies are often the most effective ways to manage PMS and reduce symptom severity. For some, home remedies may be sufficient to alleviate period pain. These modifications could include:

• Eating a balanced diet – It’s important to eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limiting your intake of salt and sugar can be beneficial. Additionally, aim to eat small meals at frequent intervals, ideally not going more than three hours between meals or snacks.
• Engaging in regular aerobic exercise –There is some research indicating that consistent physical activity can help lessen menstrual discomfort. You might also discover that mild stretching routines like yoga can alleviate your symptoms during your period.
• Getting enough sleep – Lack of quality sleep makes us tired and irritable, worsening period pain symptoms.
• Staying hydrated with water – Limiting soft drinks, caffeinated beverages, and alcohol can help.
• Warm Drinks – Sipping a warm beverage can provide some relief. Adding ginger to hot water is an effective remedy.
• Managing stress – Stress can lead to severe PMS symptoms and a lower quality of life. Regular relaxation techniques like yoga, deep breathing, and meditation can effectively help alleviate these symptoms.
• Physical therapies – Research shows that therapies like TENS, acupuncture, and acupressure can help reduce menstrual pain and cramps. Physiotherapy may also alleviate lower back pain related to PMS.
• Herbal remedies – Some herbal remedies may have benefits for women with PMS. It’s very important to check with your doctor that it is safe to use herbal remedies and treatments, particularly if you are taking other medications.
• Heat Application – Soaking in a warm bath or applying a hot towel, hot water bottle, or electric heating pad to the painful area can help relieve cramps. These methods work by increasing blood flow and relaxing the muscles.
• Massage – Gently massaging your tummy or back may help.
• Quit Smoking – If you smoke, your risk of experiencing period pain may increase. Quitting smoking could help alleviate your symptoms.

In some cases, a clinician may recommend medications or supplements to help manage PMS symptoms. These may include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – These medications relieve pain and reduce inflammation. You can be prescribed ibuprofen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs, available over-the-counter at pharmacies.
• Nutritional supplements – A clinician may suggest calcium, vitamin B6, or magnesium to help promote hormonal balance and reduce PMS symptoms. Always consult a clinician before taking any supplements, as they may not be suitable for everyone.
• Diuretics – These medications help decrease salt and water retention in your body, alleviating severe fluid retention associated with PMS symptoms, such as bloating, tender breasts, and weight gain.
• Birth control – Some individuals may find relief from PMS symptoms by using birth control methods such as pills, injections, or implants. However, some people may experience a worsening of their symptoms while on birth control. It may be helpful to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the option that works best for you.
• Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications – A clinician may recommend selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or anti-anxiety medications to help manage severe emotional symptoms of PMS, including depressed moods and anxious thoughts.

Consult your GP to determine the best option for you. Always read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medication carefully. If you have any questions, please ask your pharmacist.

When To See a Healthcare Clinician

Asking for help during your menstrual cycle is normal and encouraged. It’s important to take care of yourself, and reaching out for support can really help. Consider scheduling an appointment with a clinician if:

• Your symptoms disrupt your daily life
• Your symptoms do not improve with self-treatment
• You are experiencing suicidal thoughts or wanting to self-harm

A clinician can help rule out other conditions. They may refer you to specialists to help manage your symptoms. Your general practitioner (GP) will ask about your symptoms and your medical history. They will also want to know how your periods affect your daily life. It can be helpful to keep a record of your symptoms to show your GP.

If you are young and have not had sex, and your GP thinks you may have primary dysmenorrhoea, they may only examine your abdomen. If you are sexually active or if your GP suspects secondary dysmenorrhoea, they are likely to perform an internal vaginal examination.

What happens during an internal examination

You have the option to have someone accompany you during the examination if you wish. First, you will need to remove your lower clothing and lie on your back on the examination couch with your legs bent and your knees apart.

Your general practitioner (GP) will put on gloves and apply lubricant to their fingers. They will then gently insert their fingers into your vagina to feel your uterus and cervix. At the same time, they will use their other hand to press on the lower part of your abdomen. This helps them feel your uterus for any unusual signs.

Next, they will use a tool called a speculum to gently open your vagina, allowing them to examine your cervix more closely.

If your symptoms are severe or your GP suspects there may be another underlying issue, they may refer you to a gynaecologist. A gynaecologist is a doctor who specializes in women’s reproductive health. Your gynaecologist may recommend additional tests, such as:

• A laparoscopy
• An MRI scan
• A hysteroscopy

What are the symptoms of an unhealthy period?

Menstrual periods can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like cramps, mood swings, and breast tenderness. While mild symptoms are common, anyone experiencing severe or unusual symptoms should seek medical attention.

Unusual health issues during a period may indicate a hormone imbalance or underlying condition. These issues could require lifestyle changes, home remedies, or professional treatment.

When to see a doctor

If you have severe symptoms during your period or notice anything unusual, see a doctor. Your health is important, and getting help is a good idea.

A person should also see a healthcare clinician about any of the following:

• Unusual vaginal discharge
• A burning sensation while urinating
• A fever
• Severe pain at any time

How can I help myself have healthy periods?

When you have your period, it’s normal to experience bleeding for anywhere from 2 to 7 days. On average, a person loses between 1 to 6 tablespoons of menstrual fluid during their period. The flow can be thin or clumpy, and the colour can vary from dark red to brown or pink.

Bright red blood usually indicates a consistent and steady flow, while darker red blood—or a light flow of brown to black blood—may suggest it’s older blood or that the flow is slower, meaning it takes longer for the menstrual fluid to travel from your uterus to your vagina. Pink-tinged discharge may indicate a smaller volume of blood.

Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise can provide a range of health benefits and may enhance your experience during menstruation.

Exercise

Research has shown that women who exercise regularly are less likely to experience menstrual pain, cramps, and mood disturbances. The exact reason why exercise helps with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is still unclear. However, studies suggest that exercise can release ‘happy’ hormones such as serotonin and endorphins, which may contribute to these benefits.

Diet

A healthy diet can improve your quality of life and alleviate PMS symptoms like moodiness and painful periods. To help with this, avoid salt and reduce caffeine intake.

Research indicates that diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish), calcium, and vitamin D, while low in animal fats and salt, may lessen PMS symptoms. Reducing salt can decrease fluid retention and bloating, while excessive caffeine can cause irritability and cramps.

Aim for five servings of vegetables and two servings of fruit daily. Include nuts, seeds, fish (up to three times a week), low-fat dairy, legumes, eggs, and whole grains like brown rice and oats.

Lean meats provide important iron and protein, especially for women with heavy periods. Limit saturated fats and drink more water and herbal teas, such as chamomile.

Enhance your intake of calcium-rich foods like nuts, low-fat dairy, canned fish with bones, tofu, broccoli, and bok choy.

Good Sleep

Research indicates that sleep disturbances are common among women with severe PMS. Poor sleep can also exacerbate mood disturbances, hormone irregularities, and menstrual cycle disruptions. Improving your sleep may be achievable through the following methods:

• Exercise daily.
• Avoid stimulants such as coffee and green tea later in the day.
• Avoid heavy meals or spicy foods just before bed, especially if you are prone to reflux symptoms.
• Develop a regular bedtime routine.
• Relax before bed with a warm bath or shower.
• Deal with any stress or worries that might be keeping you awake by speaking with a friend, or ask your GP for a referral to a counsellor.
• Reduce your stress with yoga or meditation.
• Valerian, passionflower and chamomile teas may help induce sleep.
• Melatonin supplements may be helpful in some cases.

If you continue to have trouble sleeping, see your GP.

Sunshine and vitamin D

Sunshine significantly influences hormone regulation and sleep patterns by affecting the melatonin circadian rhythm. Melatonin, produced in the pineal gland from melanin, is crucial for inducing sleep and is stimulated by sun exposure.

Moreover, sunlight is a primary source of vitamin D, with about 90% coming from sun exposure and less than 10% from food like fortified milk and eggs. Vitamin D may help normalize menstrual cycles, relieve muscular pain, and improve mood disorders, such as depression.

Furthermore, vitamin D is essential for bone health, as it aids in calcium absorption to prevent osteoporosis. It’s advisable to check your vitamin D levels with your GP, especially if you have darker skin, spend much time indoors, or wear skin-covering clothing for religious or cultural reasons.

What Are Signs Your Period Is Coming?

Signs that your period is coming may include changes in appetite, mood swings, mouth or gum pain, and sensitive skin. These are not the only symptoms that can happen before your period. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can also cause headaches, lower back pain, swollen breasts, and cramps. While it’s not clear what causes PMS, changing hormones probably play a role.

Everyone’s menstrual cycle is different, and not everyone has PMS symptoms before their period. Keep reading to learn about unusual signs your period is approaching, how long PMS lasts, and more.

• You’re Hungry – Increased appetite can be a PMS symptom. Hormonal changes may cause cravings for sugary and salty foods before your period, as serotonin levels, which regulate mood, often drop. While it’s okay to indulge occasionally, focus on eating a variety of nutrient-rich whole foods to help stabilize your appetite.
• Your Skin Is Sensitive or Breaking Out – Oestrogen helps protect your skin, but its levels drop before your period, leading to increased sensitivity and pain. This can also trigger flare-ups of conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis, particularly when progesterone levels are high just before your period.
• You Feel Anxious or Depressed – Anxiety and depression are common symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which is a severe form of PMS.
• You Have Mouth or Gum Pain – Increased levels of oestrogen and progesterone before your period can cause mouth and gum pain due to heightened blood flow and reduced ability to fight plaque buildup. This irritation can result in tender and swollen gums. To alleviate discomfort, maintain good oral hygiene by regularly brushing and flossing to remove bacteria.

Signs of a Period, but No Period

Experiencing symptoms similar to your period without actually having one may indicate pregnancy. Early signs of pregnancy, like bloating, fatigue, and swollen breasts, can resemble PMS symptoms. Other potential reasons for having period-like symptoms without a period may include:

• Certain medications
• Intense physical activity
• Low weight
• An overactive thyroid, the butterfly-shaped gland in the center of your neck
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder that causes acne, excess hair growth, and irregular periods
• Stress

While it’s very unlikely to get pregnant during your period, it is possible. People typically ovulate about 14 days after their period starts, but some may ovulate unpredictably.

Period Hygiene

As young girls start their periods, it’s completely normal to need a little help figuring things out. Up until now, caring for the vulva has just meant a quick wipe after using the bathroom and a rinse in the shower. But with your period, keeping things clean is really important! Menstrual blood can sometimes lead to strong odours if we don’t wash regularly or change our protection often.

Over time, you might notice that your periods change in length, flow, and how regular they are. Plus, things like having a baby or going through menopause can affect your body, so it’s a good idea to check in and update your hygiene routine as needed. Remember, taking care of yourself is key to feeling your best!

What Is the Importance of Hygiene During Your Period?

Good hygiene during your period is crucial for staying clean, preventing infections, and maintaining comfort. Most period hygiene practices are common sense. To avoid odours, irritation, and the accumulation of bacteria during your menstrual cycle, make sure to stay clean and fresh by changing your protection regularly and washing gently.

If you use internal menstrual products, such as tampons, it’s important to change them frequently to prevent the development of bacteria, which can lead to toxic shock syndrome. For more information on this, you can read our blog here. Additionally, it’s best to avoid using internal protection overnight.

Choosing reusable period protection is generally more hygienic than disposable pads that contain plastic layers, and it’s definitely better for the environment. Menstrual underwear or reusable pads help keep your vulva cool while providing protection against leaks.

Period products

Period products soak up or collect the blood released during your period. The main types of period products are:

• Pads
• Tampons
• Menstrual cups
• Period underwear

Pads

Pads are absorbent strips with a sticky side that attach to your underwear. They come in various sizes to accommodate different flow levels, and there are also reusable pads available. Pantyliners are thinner pads for very light days.

It’s best to change pads every 3 to 4 hours to prevent bacteria buildup and odor. For heavier flows, change more often to avoid leaks.

Tampons

Tampons are small tubes made of cotton that you insert into your vagina to absorb menstrual blood before it exits your body.

There are two types of tampons: those that come with an applicator and those that do not, which you insert using your fingers. In both cases, there is a string at one end of the tampon that you pull to remove it.

Tampons come with instructions that detail how to use them. If the tampon is inserted correctly, you should not be able to feel it inside you. If you can feel it or experience pain, it may not be inserted properly. You should change your tampon every 4 to 8 hours.

It is important to note that a tampon cannot get lost inside you. The vagina holds it securely in place, and it will expand as it absorbs blood.

Menstrual cups

Menstrual cups are a sustainable alternative to pads and tampons. Made from flexible silicone, these cups are inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood instead of absorbing it.

Unlike tampons and most pads, which are disposed of after use, menstrual cups can be washed and reused many times. Most cups can be worn for up to 12 hours, and reusable versions can last for years, significantly reducing the waste associated with disposable products.

Although it may seem less convenient to empty and clean the cup rather than tossing it in the trash, using a menstrual cup is a much more eco-friendly option.

Period underwear

Period underwear, also known as period panties, are made from absorbent fabric designed to soak up menstrual blood, similar to how pads work. They have an additional layer to prevent leaks and are intended to be washed and reused.

Like menstrual cups, period panties are reusable, which contributes to a smaller environmental footprint compared to disposable products. They can hold up to three times the amount of blood that one tampon can absorb. These panties are also useful for added protection; you can wear them alongside a menstrual cup or tampon to reduce the worry of leakage.

PLEASE NOTE: Never flush menstrual products down the toilet. Not only will they clog your pipes, but they can end up in rivers and oceans, harming the environment. Please do your part and avoid flushing tampons down the toilet.

Additional Information

For more information about period health, along with tips and advice please check out the websites below.

• Education Authority: Period Health
• Bupa: Women’s Health In The Workplace
• NHS UK: Periods
• Mayo Clinic
• NHS Inform
• Wellbeing of Women: Periods

Period Poverty

Every month, over two billion people worldwide experience menstruation. This is a natural and healthy process. However, it is hindered for millions of women and girls who lack access to menstrual products, safe water, and sanitation for managing their menstrual health and hygiene. As a result, their lives, rights, and freedoms are significantly disrupted.

What is period poverty?

Period poverty is a term used to describe a lack of access to proper menstrual products and the education needed to use them effectively.

The lack of access to menstrual hygiene products can cause physical health problems, such as infections and reproductive tract complications, and can have negative social and psychological consequences, including missed school or work days and stigma.

Some women who cannot afford pads or tampons turn to more cost-effective options for managing their menstrual flow, such as rags, toilet paper, and children’s diapers. However, if these materials are unsanitary, using them can increase the risk of urogenital infections like bacterial vaginosis and urinary tract infections (UTIs). Additionally, some women may leave tampons in their bodies longer than the recommended time or use period products past their expiration dates. Using an unsterilized menstrual cup or leaving a tampon in for more than eight hours raises the risk of toxic shock syndrome, a serious condition that can lead to flu-like symptoms, low blood pressure, and organ failure.

The lack of access to menstrual hygiene products and facilities can also have negative impacts on women’s mental health. Shame and embarrassment can lead to anxiety and depression. Mental illnesses combined with period poverty can worsen substance abuse, self-harm, and related issues.

Period poverty is an issue that burdens women and girls far too heavily, and the truth is, it shouldn’t have to be this way.

What causes period poverty?

Whilst period poverty is a huge global issue that is especially prevalent in poorer countries with little access to proper sanitation and menstrual products and education it also happens here too.

The causes of period poverty are varied and one of the leading factors that contributes to this is menstrual stigma, also known as period shaming. Stigma and discrimination can be more pronounced in communities where harmful social and cultural norms regarding menstruation exist. In some parts of the world, even today, menstruating girls and women are viewed as dirty or untouchable, which limits their mobility and access to public spaces.

Menstrual stigma can have significant impact on the lives of women including their health, education, economic opportunities, and participation in public and social life.

Money can also be a huge issue. Menstrual products are prohibitively expensive for millions of people worldwide. Even in this country sanitary products are often considered a luxury item rather than a necessity and can be difficult to afford for those who are homeless or on lower incomes and may also have improper access to hygiene facilities.

Period poverty is also often perpetuated by lack of education. This can be because of stigma and the negative perception menstruation and those who menstruate, considering it dirty or shameful. Cultural and social attitudes like this can make women feel insecure about the menstrual process and thus less likely to carry period products on hand, as well as less likely to have conversations on menstrual health with friends and family members who may be better able to educate and advise them.

Poor preparation and lack of knowledge can also be caused by poor decisions by policy makers placing lesser importance on distributing this information to girls and young women leaving them unprepared to deal with their periods once they arrive.

Those who suffer from social exclusion due to homelessness or a restricted home environment may have no-one to turn to and can find it difficult to access the needed information.

All these things can lead to feelings of shame and social exclusion for those facing period poverty. For instance, women who cannot afford products to manage leakage may choose to miss school or work during their periods and this often negatively impacts their life and finances.

Thankfully there are a variety of organisations to help battle the issue of period poverty both here and abroad. Please take a look at the links below to learn more about these organisations.

• Bloody Good Period
• Period Poverty UK
• Gov.UK
• Girl Now Woman Later
• Action Aid
• Plan International

Please click HERE to read a flyer from Action Aid about period poverty and how they work to combat this the world over.

There is now a great deal of interest in the idea of sustainability. Many period products are one-use items which then go to landfills. Period poverty can be better combated using sustainable products and we as PCN promote the use of menstrual cups as these are reusable reducing the impact of disposal of towels, tampons etc. If you are interested in finding out about more environmentally friendly options, please click on the link below.