Period products are used monthly by over 2 billion people worldwide. Depending on the country, access to these products can vary drastically, leaving many at risk of experiencing “period poverty.”

What is Period Poverty?

Period poverty refers to the lack of access to affordable and safe menstrual hygiene products, proper sanitation facilities such as clean water or private toilets, and menstrual health education. Without these essentials, people are often unable to fully participate in daily life, and many face physical, emotional, and mental challenges as a result.

The cost of menstrual products differs significantly across countries. For example, here in Italy, pads and tampons cost around 1.50 to 6 euros per product (period underwear or cups can range from 15 to 30 euros), while in the United States, the average monthly expense is $10 to $15 per product. The base price isn’t the only concern; many countries still impose a “pink tax,” often taxing period products at rates similar to luxury goods. In recent years, the Italian government reduced the tax on menstrual products from 10% to 5%, but it is now considering raising it back to 10% after discovering that companies may have used the tax break to increase their profits instead of lowering product prices.

The “Pink Tax”

In the U.S., pink tax policies vary by state. 19 states in the US have eliminated the tax entirely, while other countries, such as Italy, have reduced the “tampon tax” from 22% to 10% in 2022. Currently, Scotland is the only country that provides period products to all citizens for free—a major step forward in combating period poverty. Reusable options like menstrual cups or period underwear offer a sustainable solution and long-term savings, but their high upfront cost makes them inaccessible for many people. This cost barrier highlights the broader issue: menstrual products are a necessity, not a luxury. Taxing them as non-essential goods reinforces stigma and neglects the basic needs of billions of people.

 

Access to Free Period Products

At SRISA, free pads and tampons are available in all public bathrooms. Look for the box labeled “Period products should be free.” SRISA goes a step further by ensuring the products are organic and biodegradable, supplied by This Unique. Initiatives like this help normalize conversations around menstrual health and underscore the importance of equitable access to these essential items.

No one should have to sacrifice their education, job, or daily routine for something that happens naturally. It’s time we treat period products as what they truly are: a basic human need.

Written by Summer 2025 student and intern, Marina Hishikawa