Menstrual Health Day: Awareness, Access, and Action
May 28th marks Menstrual Health Day, an important global occasion to raise awareness about menstrual health and hygiene. In Canada, where menstruation affects the lives of millions, conversations about period poverty, accessibility, and equity are essential. To recognize this important day, it is important to recognize the challenges that people face surrounding menstrual health, and highlight the efforts being made in our community to combat period poverty and provide menstrual products to those who need them.
Understanding Period Poverty
In Canada, menstrual products remain a necessity for anyone who menstruates, yet the cost of these products is still out of reach for many, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. Period poverty refers to the inability to access or afford menstrual products, leading many individuals to make difficult choices between their health and other essential needs. According to recent government statistics, 1 in 7 Canadians have experienced some form of period poverty, and many are forced to use alternatives like toilet paper, rags, or even newspapers.
Menstrual Health Is for Everyone
When talking about menstrual health, it is essential to recognize that not everyone who menstruates identifies as a woman and that not everyone who identifies as a woman menstruates. Menstruation can affect cisgender women, transgender men, non-binary, and gender non-conforming people. In discussions about period poverty and access to menstrual products, the voices of these individuals must be included.
The Women’s Centre’s Menstrual Equity Project
The Women’s Centre at the University of Waterloo has been a key player in the local fight for menstrual equity. Through its Menstrual Equity Project, the Centre provides free menstrual products to students, especially those in need, through Menstrual Hampers. These hampers come in two types: single-use products (pads and tampons) and reusable menstrual products (like menstrual cups and cloth pads).
These hampers are available to students on campus, including the Turnkey Desk. The Women’s Centre’s initiative helps ensure that menstruation does not become a barrier to education, health, or dignity.
How You Can Get Involved
As we observe Menstrual Health Day, it’s essential to recognize that period poverty is not just a distant issue—it is a local issue. Whether it’s donating menstrual products, volunteering with local organizations, or advocating for policy changes that promote menstrual equity, every action helps.
Students at the University of Waterloo can also take advantage of the Menstrual Hampers offered by the Women’s Centre and Turnkey Desk when needed. These hampers are a simple yet crucial way of addressing immediate needs while working toward long-term solutions.
Alexandra Minard
Communications Assistant
