Menstrual products should be free. I strongly believe that because the main aim for humans is to reproduce, but making these products have a price, means people that are already struggling with the incredibly high price of everyday products nowadays, can’t afford to buy these products. This could result in infections, etc. This could get so severe to the point where they have to go to hospital, but as the NHS isn’t getting enough funding, innocent women are getting failed by a system that should be so simple. 

Period poverty is an unacceptable injustice that perpetuates inequality and harms individuals. It's not just about the cost of pads and tampons; it's about dignity, health, and opportunity.

Period poverty severely restricts access to education and economic opportunities. UNESCO estimates that 1 in 10 girls in Sub-Saharan Africa miss school during their periods. A study in the U.S. found that girls missing school due to lack of period products are more likely to fall behind academically, limiting their future prospects. This lost potential perpetuates a cycle of poverty and inequality.

The health consequences are significant. Using inadequate or unhygienic materials like rags or paper towels increases the risk of infections, including reproductive and urinary tract infections. The economic burden of treating these infections further strains already limited resources.

Period poverty is a solvable problem. Scotland became the first country to make period products free for all, demonstrating a commitment to menstrual equity. Similar initiatives in other countries have shown positive results in improving school attendance and reducing health risks.

The cost of inaction is far greater than the cost of providing menstrual products. By failing to address period poverty, we are denying individuals their basic human rights, hindering their potential, and perpetuating a cycle of inequality. It's time to recognize menstrual hygiene as a public health issue and take decisive action to ensure that everyone has access to the products they need to live with dignity and participate fully in society.