The answer

Period poverty – not being able to afford sanitary protection and missing work or education as a result – sounds like something that wouldn’t be happening in the UK today. So, it may be a shock to learn that in 2023 a poll by charity Action Aid found that 21 per cent (over one in five) women and people who menstruate were struggling to afford period products in the UK. This has increased from 12 per cent in just a year, meaning a further one million people are thought to be facing period poverty.

Of those affected, 41 per cent said that they kept sanitary pads or tampons in for longer and eight per cent re-used disposable pads – both of which can pose a danger to health. The poll also found that 37 per cent used tissues or cotton wool instead of sanitary products in the last 12 months, 13 per cent used socks or other clothing, and nine per cent used paper or newspaper.

Some 14 per cent of those surveyed said they have avoided or missed work during their period and 13 per cent missed school, university or college. In addition, 39 per cent missed sport or exercise, while 25 per cent missed socialising with friends. For 18 to 24-year-olds, this amounted to almost half (48 per cent).

An added complication is the embarrassment and shame that many girls feel holding them back from asking for help. The survey also found that 22 per cent of young women and people who menstruate (aged 18-24) in the UK feel embarrassed during their period – a significant rise from eight per cent in 2022. This is something that pharmacy staff are in a prime position to address. By talking about periods openly and without any awkwardness, they can help young people feel more comfortable discussing the topic.