Dr. Arwa Saifi stands in support of Ending Period Poverty.

 

Ending Period Poverty: A Collective Journey Towards Dignity.

Ending period poverty is not just about providing sanitary products; it is about creating a world where menstruation is treated with dignity and understanding. For many girls and women, something as natural as a monthly cycle becomes a source of stress simply because they cannot afford pads, do not have access to clean washrooms, or have grown up hearing that periods should be hidden. To end period poverty, the first step is to speak openly about menstruation. When conversations become normal and free from embarrassment, girls feel confident to ask questions, seek help, and share their needs without fear of being judged. Breaking the silence also helps dismantle the myths and shame that have existed for generations.

Another important way to tackle period poverty is to ensure that menstrual products are affordable and accessible to everyone. Many families still consider pads a luxury, forcing girls to rely on unsafe alternatives. Governments, schools, and communities can support by providing low-cost or free products and by promoting reusable options like cloth pads and menstrual cups, which are both economical and environmentally friendly. Along with access to products, proper hygiene facilities must be available. Clean washrooms with running water, dustbins, and privacy are essential for managing periods safely and comfortably. When such facilities are missing, girls often skip school, and women avoid work, reducing opportunities and affecting their health and confidence.

Education also plays a vital role in ending period poverty. Young people must learn about the menstrual cycle, hygiene, pain management, and safe product usage. When both boys and girls receive the right information, it creates a supportive environment where periods are seen as natural rather than shameful. Knowledge empowers girls to take care of their health and helps boys grow into men who respect and understand women’s needs.

Sustainable solutions are equally important. Reusable menstrual products can significantly reduce costs, especially for families with limited income. However, awareness sessions and demonstrations are necessary so that women feel comfortable using them. At the same time, men and boys must be included in every effort to end period poverty. When fathers, brothers, teachers, and community leaders understand menstruation, it breaks the cycle of stigma and creates a safer, kinder environment for girls.

Ending period poverty also requires strong government support and community involvement. Policies that distribute free menstrual products in schools, fund awareness programmes, and improve sanitation can bring long-term change. Local groups and self-help organizations can also produce low-cost pads, creating employment while supporting women’s health.

Ultimately, ending period poverty is about restoring dignity. No girl should miss school, and no woman should suffer in silence because of something so natural. By talking openly, improving access, strengthening education, and working together as a community, we can ensure that every girl and woman manages her period with confidence and comfort. When we support menstrual health, we support equality, well-being, and the progress of society as a whole.