As someone who is personally affected by painful and irregular menstrual cycles due to Endometriosis, I understand the hardships that come with this natural phenomenon, not only in terms of physical distress but also in the economic burden. We didn't ask to have periods, yet we have to spend more than $50 on tampons, pads, wipes, and liners, products which are absolutely essential for our day-to-day living.

Consequently, we ask for menstrual hygiene products to be made fully accessible and free for all who need them. This is not only a matter of equity but a fundamental human need. Research suggests that on average, people who menstruate spend about $6,360 in their entire lifetime on period products (source: HuffPost). This is a cost that many among us struggle to meet, forcing us to choose between basic necessities and personal hygiene.

Period poverty is a reality for countless women and girls across the world, which leads to significant health risks, discomfort, and a disruption to their everyday lives. Making period products free and accessible to everyone would, apart from easing the economic burden, also reduce the stigma associated with menstruation.

Menstrual hygiene is not a privilege; it's a right. We call on policymakers and manufacturers to eliminate the cost of these essential products. Stand with us, and support this change, because it is high time that we stop penalizing people for a natural, necessary biological process. Please sign this petition to make a difference.