I am calling on the UK Government to make essential menstrual health products, including sanitary towels and tampons, freely available to all who need them.

Menstrual products are a necessity, not a luxury. Yet in the UK, period poverty remains a real issue. Research has found that 1 in 10 young people have been unable to afford menstrual products, and over a quarter have had to use products for longer than is safe due to cost.

Menstrual health conditions also place a significant burden on those affected. Around 1 in 10 women in the UK live with endometriosis — approximately 1.5 million people, many experiencing severe pain and heavy bleeding that can disrupt daily life. 
Similarly, PCOS affects around 1 in 10 women in the UK, often causing irregular, heavy, and difficult-to-manage periods.

More broadly, a large UK survey found that over a quarter (28%) of women are living with serious reproductive health conditions, and many report heavy bleeding and severe period pain.

As someone living with both PCOS and endometriosis, I experience extremely heavy periods, sometimes requiring up to three packs of sanitary pads in a single cycle. The pain can be so severe in the first days that I am unable to work, creating both a health and financial burden.

No one should have to choose between managing their health and affording basic living costs. Menstrual products are essential for dignity, hygiene, and wellbeing.

We urge the Government to:

Provide free menstrual products through pharmacies, schools, workplaces, and community centres
Ensure consistent nationwide access for ALL
Recognise menstrual health as a public health issue
Countries like Scotland have already implemented free access to menstrual products, showing that this is both achievable and effective so why can't we.

Free menstrual products would reduce inequality, support those with medical conditions, and ensure everyone can manage their health with dignity.