Period Dignity – Why Does it Matter, Role & Challenges [2024]

Updated on March 1, 2024

In this article, you will understand the vital importance of period dignity in advancing gender equality and public health because it unveils how overcoming period stigma and ensuring access to menstrual products, education, and facilities can transform societal norms and empower individuals.

What is Period Dignity and Why Does it Matter?

In today’s society, the conversation around menstrual health is evolving, moving beyond the confines of privacy and into the realm of public health and gender equality.

At the heart of this shift is the concept of period dignity—a principle that advocates for the right of every individual to manage their menstrual cycle in a way that is healthy, affordable, and free from stigma and discrimination.

But what exactly is period dignity, and why does it play a crucial role in our collective push towards a more equitable world?

Period dignity is not just about having access to menstrual products; it encompasses a broader spectrum of needs, including accurate information about menstrual health, the availability of clean and private facilities for menstrual management, and the freedom from shame and embarrassment often associated with menstruation.

This concept challenges the historical taboos and societal norms that have silenced discussions around periods, pushing for a more open, inclusive, and respectful approach to menstrual health.

The importance of period dignity cannot be overstated. It matters because, without it, the natural biological process of menstruation becomes a barrier to education, employment, and overall well-being for those who menstruate.

Lack of access to menstrual products, education, and sanitary facilities can lead to absenteeism from school or work, increased health risks, and a significant impact on mental health.

Furthermore, the stigma surrounding menstruation often perpetuates gender inequality, limiting the opportunities and rights of individuals based on their menstrual cycle.

Recognizing and promoting period dignity, therefore, is not just an issue of health—it’s a matter of human rights and equality. It calls for a societal shift to normalize menstruation, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their economic status or cultural background, has the means and support to manage their menstrual health with dignity.

Understanding Period Dignity

Understanding the importance of period dignity is crucial for driving social change, advancing health equity, and achieving gender equality. Although the search yielded limited direct references to the requested topics, the discussion underscores the significance of addressing period stigma, enhancing education, and overcoming challenges to promote period dignity worldwide.

Period dignity is a multifaceted concept that extends beyond the simple provision of menstrual products to encompass a comprehensive approach to menstrual health and hygiene.

This approach is built on the pillars of accessibility, affordability, and awareness, each playing a pivotal role in ensuring that individuals can manage their menstruation with respect and without compromising their dignity.

Components of period dignity

By examining the components of period dignity, we gain insight into its comprehensive nature and the broad spectrum of needs it seeks to address.

• Accessibility is the cornerstone of period dignity. It implies that everyone, regardless of their location, economic status, or mobility, should have access to menstrual products, clean and safe facilities for menstrual management, and healthcare services related to menstrual health. This includes the availability of sanitary pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and other sustainable menstrual products in public spaces such as schools, workplaces, and community centers.
• Affordability ensures that menstrual products and services are economically accessible to all. The cost of menstrual products can be prohibitive for many, leading to period poverty—a situation where individuals are unable to afford the necessary products to manage their menstruation. Advocacy for period dignity calls for the elimination of taxes on menstrual products (often referred to as the “pink tax”) and the provision of free or subsidized products to those in need.
• Awareness encompasses education and the breaking down of taboos and stigma associated with menstruation. Educating individuals about menstrual health from an early age promotes a healthy and respectful understanding of menstruation. It also involves public awareness campaigns to normalize menstruation in society and combat the shame and misinformation that often surround it. Education is crucial for both those who menstruate and those who do not, as it fosters empathy, understanding, and support for menstrual health issues.

Period dignity also involves challenging and changing societal attitudes towards menstruation. It calls for an end to menstrual shaming and encourages open discussions about menstrual health, recognizing it as a normal and natural part of life.

By advocating for comprehensive education on menstrual health, ensuring the availability and affordability of menstrual products, and fostering a supportive societal attitude, period dignity aims to empower individuals to manage their menstruation with confidence and without stigma.

In essence, understanding period dignity requires acknowledging that it is an issue of equity, health, and human rights. It is about creating a world where menstrual health is not a barrier to anyone’s education, well-being, or success.

The Impact of Period Stigma on Society

Period stigma is a pervasive issue that affects not only individuals but society as a whole, leading to a myriad of negative consequences across social, educational, and economic spheres.

This stigma, rooted in centuries-old taboos and misconceptions about menstruation, manifests in various forms of discrimination, shame, and silence, significantly impacting the lives of those who menstruate.

Social Impacts:

At the core of period stigma is a culture of silence and shame that surrounds menstruation. This stigma can lead to feelings of embarrassment and isolation for those who menstruate, affecting their social interactions and self-esteem. The pervasive nature of this stigma also inhibits open discussions about menstrual health, leaving many individuals uninformed and unprepared to manage their menstruation effectively and with dignity.

Educational Impacts:

One of the most tangible effects of period stigma is seen in the educational disruption it causes. School absenteeism is a common issue, as girls and young women may lack access to menstrual products or face inadequate sanitation facilities at school, making it difficult for them to attend during their periods. The embarrassment and fear of leakage due to inadequate menstrual management resources can lead to significant gaps in education, further perpetuating cycles of inequality.

Economic Impacts:

Period stigma and the associated lack of access to menstrual products and facilities can also have economic repercussions. In the workplace, menstruating individuals may face discrimination and lack of support, including inadequate restroom facilities or the absence of policies accommodating menstrual health needs. This environment can hinder their performance and productivity, potentially affecting their career advancement and contributing to gender disparities in the workforce.

Mental Health Issues:

Beyond the social, educational, and economic impacts, period stigma can severely affect mental health. The shame and secrecy surrounding menstruation can contribute to anxiety, stress, and a diminished sense of well-being. The fear of being stigmatized for a natural biological process can lead to feelings of inadequacy and alienation, exacerbating mental health challenges.

The consequences of period stigma underscore the urgent need for societal change. By addressing period stigma head-on, through education, policy changes, and community support, we can mitigate its harmful effects.

The Role of Education in Promoting Period Dignity

Education plays a pivotal role in promoting period dignity, serving as a fundamental tool to dismantle the stigma surrounding menstruation and empower individuals with the knowledge they need to manage their menstrual health with confidence.

By integrating comprehensive menstrual education into schools and community programs, society can make significant strides towards fostering a supportive and informed environment that upholds the principles of period dignity.

Integration into Curriculum:

Menstrual education should be included as a standard part of the curriculum in schools. This education should start early and be age-appropriate, ensuring that students understand menstruation as a normal biological process before they begin menstruating.

Information should cover the basics of menstrual health management, including the use of menstrual products, personal hygiene practices, and the importance of nutrition and physical health in relation to the menstrual cycle.

Role of Educators:

Educators play a crucial role in delivering menstrual education. They need to be provided with the proper training and resources to address the topic confidently and sensitively, ensuring that they can answer questions and dispel myths effectively.

Creating a comfortable and open environment in the classroom is essential for encouraging discussion and ensuring that students feel supported.

Public Health Campaigns:

Beyond the classroom, public health campaigns can amplify the message of menstrual education, reaching a broader audience. These campaigns can utilize various media platforms to spread awareness, promote healthy practices, and normalize menstruation in the public discourse.

Campaigns can also focus on specific issues, such as the importance of access to sanitary products and safe sanitation facilities, particularly in underserved communities.

Reducing Stigma and Promoting Health:

Comprehensive menstrual education is key to reducing the stigma surrounding menstruation. By normalizing conversations about menstrual health and providing accurate information, society can move towards a more inclusive and respectful understanding of menstruation.

This, in turn, promotes better health outcomes, as individuals are more likely to seek help and support for menstrual issues when they feel comfortable and informed.

Fostering a Supportive Society:

Education extends beyond those who menstruate. It’s crucial for boys and men to receive menstrual education as well, to foster empathy and support within communities and families.

Understanding menstruation as a normal aspect of health can encourage everyone to contribute to a culture that respects and upholds period dignity.

Incorporating these elements into educational and public health efforts can significantly advance period dignity

Challenges to Achieving Period Dignity

Achieving period dignity for all is a complex challenge that is influenced by a myriad of factors, ranging from economic constraints to cultural norms and infrastructural deficiencies.

These barriers not only hinder the accessibility of menstrual hygiene products and education but also perpetuate the stigma and discrimination associated with menstruation. Identifying and understanding these challenges is the first step towards developing effective solutions.

Economic Barriers:

Economic constraints are one of the primary obstacles to achieving period dignity. For many individuals, the cost of menstrual hygiene products is prohibitively high, leading to period poverty.

This situation forces them to use inadequate or unsafe materials to manage their menstruation, which can lead to health risks and a sense of shame.

Additionally, the economic burden is exacerbated in regions with a high tampon tax, further limiting access to essential menstrual hygiene products.

Cultural Taboos:

Cultural and societal taboos surrounding menstruation significantly impact period dignity.

In many cultures, menstruation is considered impure or taboo, leading to restrictions on the activities of menstruating individuals, including attending school, participating in religious ceremonies, or engaging in community events.

These beliefs not only isolate individuals but also prevent open discussions about menstrual health, thereby limiting awareness and education.

Lack of Facilities:

Inadequate access to clean and private sanitation facilities is a significant infrastructural challenge that affects period dignity. Many schools, workplaces, and public spaces lack appropriate facilities for individuals to manage their menstruation safely and hygienically.

This lack of access can lead to health risks, absenteeism, and increased stigma, as individuals are forced to manage their menstruation in unsanitary or unsafe conditions.

Education and Awareness Gaps:

A lack of comprehensive menstrual education and awareness perpetuates myths and misinformation about menstruation. Without proper education, individuals may not know how to manage their menstrual health effectively or may feel ashamed of their menstrual cycle.

This barrier extends to healthcare providers, educators, and policymakers who may lack the understanding necessary to support menstrual health initiatives.

Policy and Governance Challenges:

Achieving period dignity requires supportive policies and governance structures. However, in many regions, menstrual health is not prioritized on the policy agenda, leading to insufficient funding and support for menstrual hygiene management programs.

The absence of policies that ensure the availability of menstrual products, sanitation facilities, and education contributes to the ongoing challenges in achieving period dignity.

To overcome these challenges, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. Efforts must be made to address economic barriers through subsidies, tax exemptions, and the provision of free menstrual products in schools and communities.

Cultural beliefs and taboos can be challenged through education and awareness campaigns that normalize menstruation and promote gender equality. Improving infrastructure, particularly in schools and public spaces, is essential to provide safe and hygienic facilities for menstrual management.

Citron Hygiene’s Role in Creating Period Dignity Washrooms and Addressing Lack of Facilities

In the global fight against period poverty and the challenge of inadequate facilities for menstrual management, Citron Hygiene has emerged as a key player, demonstrating how corporate responsibility and innovative solutions can make a significant impact.

By providing free period products in workplaces, schools, and other public spaces, Citron Hygiene is actively working to overcome barriers to period dignity, particularly in the context of addressing the lack of facilities.

Targeting Period Poverty:

Recognizing that economic barriers are a major factor contributing to period poverty, Citron Hygiene is committed to helping their customers create period positive spaces with services that allow them to provide free period products to their staff and visitors.

This initiative directly addresses the issue of affordability, ensuring that individuals have access to essential items needed to manage their menstruation with dignity, regardless of their economic situation.

By doing so, Citron Hygiene customers are helping to normalize the availability of menstrual products, akin to other basic hygiene necessities provided in public restrooms.

Improving Facilities:

Citron Hygiene’s efforts extend beyond just the provision of free products; they are also involved in improving the overall infrastructure related to menstrual hygiene management in public spaces.

By equipping restrooms with dispensers for free menstrual products, they are setting a standard for facilities to be more inclusive and accommodating of menstrual needs.

This move not only aids in addressing the infrastructural challenges but also contributes to reducing the stigma associated with menstruation, promoting a more open and supportive environment.

Educational Initiatives:

Alongside providing products and improving facilities, Citron Hygiene recognizes the importance of education in combating period poverty.

Through awareness campaigns and partnerships with educational institutions, they contribute to educating the public about menstrual health and hygiene, further dismantling myths and taboos that surround menstruation.

These educational efforts are crucial for fostering a supportive society where period dignity is respected and upheld.

Collaboration for Greater Impact:

Citron Hygiene’s approach to promote period dignity and improving facilities for menstrual management is not done in isolation. By collaborating with schools, businesses, and government bodies, they are able to amplify their impact, encouraging other organizations to recognize their role in supporting menstrual health initiatives.

This collaborative effort is essential for creating systemic change and ensuring that menstrual health is prioritized on both a local and national level.

By enabling their customers to provide free period products to staff and visitors, improving facilities, and educating the public, Citron Hygiene is making significant strides in supporting the change in standards and practices needed to end period poverty and addressing the lack of adequate menstrual hygiene management facilities.

Their work is a testament to the positive role that businesses can play in addressing critical public health issues and advancing period dignity for all.

Global Efforts Towards Period Dignity

Around the world, numerous initiatives and policy changes are showcasing how concerted efforts can significantly advance period dignity. From government-led policies ensuring free period products to NGO campaigns and grassroots movements advocating for menstrual equity, these case studies highlight successful strategies in different regions, including notable legislation changes in Canada and upcoming adjustments in U.S. states like Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Jersey.

Canada: Legislation for Free Period Products in Workplaces

Canada has made progressive steps toward ensuring period dignity through legislation that mandates the availability of free period products in federally regulated workplaces.

This policy change recognizes menstrual products as necessities, akin to toilet paper and soap, and requires federally regulated employers to provide them to employees at no cost. This move not only addresses period poverty but also challenges the stigma surrounding menstruation, setting a precedent for other countries to follow.

United States: Upcoming Changes in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Jersey

In the United States, lead by MassNOW ,states like Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Jersey are leading the way with upcoming changes to ensure menstrual equity. These states are considering, or have already passed, legislation that would require schools, prisons, and homeless shelters to provide free menstrual products.

This legislative effort is a significant step towards eliminating barriers to education and participation in society due to the lack of access to menstrual hygiene products, ensuring that menstruation is not a hindrance to anyone’s daily life.

How to Support Period Dignity

Supporting period dignity is a collective responsibility that requires the engagement of both individuals and organizations. By taking actionable steps towards advocacy, volunteering, donations, and education, we can all contribute to promoting menstrual equity and dignity. Here are practical ways to make a meaningful impact:

For Individuals

• Advocacy: Advocate for policy changes that ensure access to free menstrual products in schools, workplaces, and public facilities. Use social media platforms to raise awareness about period dignity and the challenges related to period poverty.
• Volunteering: Volunteer with local organizations that work towards menstrual equity. Help organize workshops, distribute menstrual products, and participate in campaigns aimed at breaking the stigma surrounding menstruation.
• Donations: Donate menstrual products to shelters, schools, food banks, and non-profit organizations focused on menstrual health. Even small contributions can make a big difference in the lives of those affected by period poverty.
• Education: Educate yourself and others about menstrual health and hygiene. Host or participate in discussions to spread knowledge and challenge myths and taboos surrounding menstruation.

For Organizations

• Workplace Policies: Implement policies that provide free menstrual products in workplace restrooms. Promote an inclusive and supportive work environment where menstruation is not stigmatized.
• Support Community Initiatives: Support community initiatives and non-profits working towards menstrual equity through partnerships, funding, and advocacy efforts.
• Educational Programs: Develop and support educational programs that provide comprehensive information on menstrual health, aimed at both young people and adults. Education is key to changing perceptions and attitudes towards menstruation.

Conclusion

Period dignity is more than just access to menstrual products; it’s about creating an environment where menstruation is not a barrier to anyone’s education, health, or opportunities. Achieving period dignity is integral to promoting social change, health equity, and gender equality. It requires us to challenge existing taboos, advocate for necessary policy changes, and support those in need through practical actions.

As we move forward, let’s remember that every effort counts. Whether you’re advocating for policy changes, volunteering your time, making donations, or simply educating those around you, you’re contributing to a world where period dignity is recognized as a fundamental right.

Let’s continue to work together to support period dignity and ensure that everyone, regardless of their economic situation or cultural background, has the means and support to manage their menstrual health with dignity.

Period Diginity – FAQS 

What is period dignity?

• Period dignity ensures everyone can manage menstruation healthily, affordably, and without stigma, promoting access to products, education, and supportive environments.

Why is period dignity important?

• It’s crucial for gender equality, health equity, and social change, preventing menstruation from being a barrier to education, work, and daily life activities.

How can schools promote period dignity?

• Schools can offer free menstrual products in every washroom, incorporate comprehensive menstrual education into the curriculum, and ensure clean, private facilities for all students.

What role do governments play in ensuring period dignity?

• Governments can legislate free access to menstrual products in public spaces, mandate hygienic disposal bins next to every toilet, remove taxes on these products, and fund educational programs on menstrual health.

How can individuals support period dignity?

• By advocating for policy changes, donating menstrual products to those in need, volunteering with related non-profits, and educating others to dismantle menstrual stigma.

What are the economic impacts of period poverty?

• Period poverty leads to absenteeism from school and work, limiting educational and economic opportunities for those affected, and perpetuating gender inequality.

How does period stigma affect mental health?

• Period stigma can cause anxiety, stress, and feelings of shame, impacting mental well-being and leading to social isolation for those menstruating.

What actions can workplaces take to support period dignity?

• Workplaces can provide free menstrual products in washrooms, create supportive policies for menstrual health needs, ensure hygienic disposal options are available next to every toilet, and foster an environment that normalizes menstruation discussions.

How do cultural attitudes impact period dignity?

• Cultural taboos and myths around menstruation contribute to stigma, limiting open discussion and education, and hindering access to menstrual health resources.

What are effective ways to combat period poverty?

• Combating period poverty involves ensuring free access to menstrual products, improving sanitation facilities, and offering comprehensive education on menstrual health.

Resources

• https://www.gov.wales/sites/default/files/consultations/2021-10/period-dignity-strategic-action-plan-young-peoples-version.pdf
• The Impact of Period Stigma on Society: The stigma surrounding menstruation is a global issue that necessitates a multifaceted approach including education, legislation, and public health efforts to promote period dignity (Mann & Byrne, 2023 https://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20237118 ). The negative societal impacts of period stigma are profound, affecting individuals’ psychological, social, and economic well-being. Combatting this stigma is essential for creating a society that respects and upholds period dignity.
• The Importance of Menstrual Health for Gender Equality and Global Health: Hennegan, J., Shannon, A., Rubli, J., Schwab, K., & Melendez‐Torres, G. (2019). Women’s and girls’ experiences of menstruation in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review and qualitative metasynthesis. PLoS Medicine, 16. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.1002803.
• Rossouw, L., & Ross, H. (2021). Understanding Period Poverty: Socio-Economic Inequalities in Menstrual Hygiene Management in Eight Low- and Middle-Income Countries. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18052571.
•  A Brief Note on Menstrual Stigma: Social Assumptions and Responsibilities. International journal of current research and review, 13, 60-63. https://doi.org/10.31782/IJCRR.2021.13604. : A review paper discussed the societal myths and assumptions about menstruation that undermine women’s status and self-confidence, emphasizing the need for educational empowerment to overcome these cultural misinformation and taboos .
• ‘I do what a woman should do’: a grounded theory study of women’s menstrual experiences at work in Mukono District, Uganda. BMJ Global Health, 5. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjgh-2020-003433.: A study in Uganda explored working women’s menstrual experiences and their impact on work and health, revealing the burdens of menstruation in the workplace and suggesting the need for supportive policies