Period Poverty: More Common in Wealthy Nations Than Expected

March 20, 2026 Ananya Mittal - World Editor

Inadequate access to menstrual hygiene products – often referred to as “period poverty” – isn’t confined to low- and middle-income countries. A new systematic review, published March 13 in the Journal of Adolescent Health, highlights a surprisingly widespread issue within the United States and Canada, with prevalence rates ranging from 9% to 65% among adolescents.

Prevalence and Populations Affected

The study, led by Julie G. Samuels, analyzed data from eight studies examining period poverty in North America. Period poverty encompasses not just the inability to afford menstrual products like pads and tampons, but also a lack of access to sanitation facilities, hygiene education, and waste management. The wide range in prevalence – from 9% to 65% – underscores the complexity of measuring this issue and suggests significant variations based on factors like socioeconomic status, geographic location, and access to school-based programs. The review specifically focused on adolescent and young adult populations, recognizing that this age group faces unique vulnerabilities.

While the review focused on the US and Canada, the issue of period poverty is increasingly recognized globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF have acknowledged the impact of menstrual health and hygiene on girls’ education and overall well-being, particularly in developing countries. The WHO’s fact sheet on menstrual hygiene details the broader global context and the challenges faced by women and girls worldwide.

Defining Period Poverty and Its Components

It’s critical to understand that period poverty isn’t simply about affordability. It’s a multifaceted issue that includes:

  • Financial Insecurity: The inability to purchase menstrual products regularly.
  • Lack of Access: Limited availability of products in schools, shelters, or public spaces.
  • Stigma and Shame: Social taboos surrounding menstruation that can prevent open discussion and access to resources.
  • Hygiene Facilities: Insufficient access to clean water, sanitation, and handwashing facilities.
  • Education: A lack of knowledge about menstrual health and hygiene.

Study Methodology and Limitations

The systematic review involved a comprehensive search of databases, identifying 1847 unique articles. After screening, eight studies met the inclusion criteria for detailed analysis. The researchers extracted data on prevalence rates, study methodologies, and participant characteristics. However, the authors acknowledge several limitations. The included studies varied significantly in their methodologies, making direct comparisons challenging. The lack of standardized definitions for “period poverty” across studies contributed to the wide range of prevalence estimates. The review also noted a critical gap: the absence of published, controlled trials evaluating interventions specifically designed to address period poverty in the United States and Canada. This highlights the demand for more rigorous research in this area.

The study’s findings are published in PubMed, a database of biomedical literature maintained by the National Institutes of Health.

Implications for Healthcare and Public Health

The findings suggest that clinicians should consider screening for period poverty during routine adolescent health check-ups, alongside other social determinants of health. This could involve asking questions about access to menstrual products and related challenges. Early identification of individuals experiencing period poverty can facilitate connections to available resources and support services. The review emphasizes the importance of addressing period poverty as a public health issue, recognizing its potential impact on educational attainment, mental health, and overall well-being.

The lack of interventions specifically tested in the US and Canada is a significant concern. While various organizations and schools have implemented programs to provide free menstrual products, there’s limited evidence on their effectiveness. Further research is needed to evaluate the impact of different interventions and identify best practices.

What Does This Mean in Practical Terms?

For adolescents experiencing period poverty, the consequences can be significant. Missing school due to a lack of access to menstrual products can lead to academic setbacks. Using inadequate or unsanitary materials can increase the risk of infections. The shame and stigma associated with menstruation can contribute to anxiety and depression. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach that includes providing access to affordable products, promoting menstrual health education, and challenging societal norms.

The Broader Context of Social Determinants of Health

Period poverty is inextricably linked to broader social and economic inequalities. Factors such as poverty, homelessness, and food insecurity can all contribute to a lack of access to menstrual hygiene products. Addressing period poverty requires tackling these underlying social determinants of health. This includes policies that promote economic security, affordable housing, and access to healthcare. Drugs.com reports on the growing recognition of period poverty as a public health concern within the context of broader socioeconomic factors.

Next Steps: Research, Policy, and Intervention

The authors of the systematic review call for increased research to better understand the prevalence and impact of period poverty in high-income countries. Specifically, they recommend conducting controlled trials to evaluate the effectiveness of different interventions. This research should also explore the experiences of diverse populations, including those from marginalized communities. Policy changes are needed to ensure that menstrual products are accessible and affordable for all. This could include eliminating taxes on menstrual products (often referred to as the “tampon tax”), providing free products in schools and public spaces, and expanding access to healthcare services. Ongoing surveillance and data collection are crucial to monitor trends and assess the impact of interventions. The Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine, the publisher of the study, will likely continue to monitor research in this area and update guidance as new evidence emerges.