California’s Menstrual Equity for All Act and What it Means for Period Poverty

As of today, nearly 25%, or 500 million, of women around the world do not have access to menstrual health products and education. Despite affecting such a large population of women across the world, this issue known as period poverty is rarely talked about in the context of global health. The U.S. is not exempt from this issue. The Pink Tax, a price discrepancy between products marketed to women despite the nearly identical, cheaper versions marketed to men, is a huge reason for this.

Featured, StateAkshitha MamidiFebruary 3, 2022period poverty, menstrual health, UC Davis, Period, pink tax, Menstrual Equity for All Act, Endometriosis, PCOS, Davis PeriodComment

Periods: Poverty and Proposals Around the World

Years ago, when Rachel Krengel and her family went into debt, Krengel said that menstrual products became “the first thing under the bus.” Krengel was forced to ration her menstrual products and would regularly use sanitary pads for close to a full day, instead of the recommended three to four hours—not only was this a health risk, but Krengel’s everyday functioning was disrupted by this. In fact, Krengel would have to sacrifice menstrual products to put food on the table instead.

Globe, FeaturedElizabeth ChoNovember 12, 2021period poverty, menstrual health, reproductive rights, women's healthComment