August 11th, 2020
By: Megan Hakopian
You’ve heard the phrase “Period. End of Sentence.” But have you heard the new phrase “Periods don’t stop for Pandemics?” As the COVID-19 pandemic is sending everyone to stores in herds, it is also sending women to the feminine hygiene section only to find empty shelves and only pricier products leftover.
In a recent article by Stat, a 19-year-old named Bennett states, “she has had her period since she was 9 years old. Her flow is heavy and can regularly last as long as two to three weeks. She lives with her 16-year-old sister, Tyreanna, and their mother, Lakisha. Their household can go through 20 thick, purple pads in three days. While a pack might cost $5 or $6 at a pharmacy, Bennett said she always needs a $10 bill at the corner store. “
Period poverty isn’t a new concept: It is a known fact that menstrual hygiene products are not covered by national food stamps and beyond that are taxed in multiple states. Not to mention, the corona virus pandemic has further exacerbated the problem: leaving marginalized communities more vulnerable than ever.
“This pandemic, again, is proving that pads and tampons are an essential product, and that they’re not luxury products,” said Nina Sarhan, a leader at PERIOD, another group that distributes supplies and pushes for legislative action. (Via Stat)
The truth is: Period Poverty is only getting worse during COVID-19. Charities and local groups are saying that due to the crisis, period poverty and the stigma are only getting worse. According to research, “from development and humanitarian organization Plan International has found that the Covid-19 pandemic is leaving people struggling to manage their periods. They surveyed health professionals in 30 countries and 73% said restricted access to products through shortages or disrupted supply chains is a major issue. 68% pointed to restricted access to facilities to change, clean and dispose of period products during the crisis has been a fundamental problem and over half (58%) said an increase in the price of products is exacerbating period poverty during the lockdown. Rose Caldwell, chief executive of Plan International UK said in a statement, “the virus is making the situation worse. We already know that the coronavirus outbreak is having a devastating impact on family finances all over the world, but now we see that girls and women are also facing widespread shortages and price hikes on period products, with the result that many are being forced to make do with whatever they can find to manage their period. This can pose a real threat to their health and may increase the risk of infection.” (Via Alice Broster)
So now you’re probably asking how you can help? There are many ways you can make an impact.
-Create a Dignity Kit and donate these to local women’s shelters (Pads, Tampons, Bar Soap, Socks and toothpaste)
-Collect Period Products
-Partner with local businesses to receive products for dignity kits
Remember, periods don’t stop for pandemics.