Menstrual Health: The Right to a Stigma-Free Cycle

Too often, policy and educational lessons tie menstrual health lessons to fertility, but menstruating people are not reproductive organs. They deserve to live free of shame and stigma, with  access to products that fulfill their needs and information about their bodies throughout their lifespan.

Problem 

Menstrual health is not suitably addressed at any level of our society, leaving people who menstruate vulnerable to misinformation and to shame from others. Currently, any policy efforts to address menstrual health focuses on increasing access to menstrual products. While this is necessary, it does not address the root cause of menstrual health inequity - shame, hate, disempowerment and lack of information. 

Our Plan 

This is a health issue; menstruating people need to know if their body functions are healthy or concerning. We need to think beyond the bleeding, but to envision the whole cycle and beyond the cycle - looking at pain, endometriosis, cysts, menopause, and holistic care. 

• End stigma around menstrual cycles. 

  • Incorporate knowledge of the whole menstrual cycle (pre-period through menopause) and menstrual conditions (i.e. endometriosis) in all sex education courses for all students.

  • Host Advocacy Days and develop education programs focused on increasing awareness and information on mental health, as well as dismantling stigma for all people through public campaigns, ads, and policies.

• End taxation on menstrual products throughout the United States.

• Ensure equitable implementation of the bill to Empower Women through Menstrual Health Education that was signed by the Governor in the 2019-2020 legislative session.

• End Period Poverty.

  • Ensure all correctional facilities, shelters, and schools are utilizing the allocated budget for menstrual health initiatives and quality products. 

  • Provide free and eco-friendly pads and tampons in all public spaces. 

  • Provide visualization on how to use menstrual products in all school bathrooms.  

This Matters

Health matters. People who menstruate matter. The deep-rooted misogyny and patriarchy fuel the shame that keeps people who menstruate stigmatized and lacking information. By focusing on increasing access to health knowledge and actively taking steps to rid our society of stigma and hate, we are creating a world where access and acceptance are not struggles.