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111-440: A tampon is a menstrual product designed to absorb blood and vaginal secretions by insertion into the vagina during menstruation . Unlike a pad , it is placed internally, inside of the vaginal canal . Once inserted correctly, a tampon is held in place by the vagina and expands as it soaks up menstrual blood. As tampons also absorb the vagina's natural lubrication and bacteria in addition to menstrual blood, they can increase

222-548: A Stanford research study found that the average woman will spend approximately $ 18,000 on menstrual products in their lifetime. Students who menstruate also make up a large population of those who experience period poverty. Studies show that 19% of students who menstruate feel as though they need to decide between buying groceries or buying menstrual products each month. Period poverty is an intersectional issue and unhoused women experiencing it have trouble accessing menstrual products due to economic constraints. Single women makeup

333-403: A life-cycle assessment (LCA) comparison of the environmental impact of tampons and sanitary pads. They found that the main environmental impact of the products was in fact caused by the processing of raw materials, particularly LDPE (low density polyethylene) – or the plastics used in the backing of pads and tampon applicators, and cellulose production . As production of these plastics requires

444-562: A luxury tax to tampons at a higher rate than GST. Specific petitions such as "Axe the Tampon Tax" have been created to oppose this tax, and the tax was removed in 2019. In the UK , tampons are subject to a zero rate of value added tax (VAT), as opposed to the standard rate of 20% applied to the vast majority of products sold in the country. The UK was previously bound by the EU VAT directive, which required

555-594: A biological aspect of their bodies is deeply tied to social norms and expectations of femininity and womanhood. In 2020, Always removed the Venus female symbol from the packaging from their menstruation products after protests from LGBTQI activists. LGBTQI activists pleas to remove the symbol was a call to make the brands labelling more inclusive for transgender and non-binary customers. As of 2023, 26 US states have passed or enacted menstrual equity bills related to solving period poverty. The breakdown for where these bills exist

666-913: A box of tampons typically costs between $ 7 and $ 12 USD and contains 16 to 40 tampons, depending on the brand and size. This means users might spend between $ 63 and $ 108 annually on tampons alone, assuming the need for around 9 boxes per year. This corresponds to an average cost of approximately $ 0.22–$ 0.75 per tampon, reflecting price increases of up to 33% since the pandemic Activists call the problem some women have when not being able to afford products " period poverty ". Also referred to as "tampon tax," where sales tax applies to menstrual products in certain U.S. states. As of 2024, 23 states exempt these products, while others impose taxes up to 7%. Local taxes can also apply, adding further costs. States like Texas recently abolished this tax. Some states provide free tampons and pads in public schools and prisons, helping alleviate period poverty. Menstrual toxic shock syndrome (mTSS)

777-673: A compilation of articles regarding period poverty authored by a diverse range of individuals with personal interest to the issue. While in the US , MSNBC aired Morning Joe , centralized on period poverty hosted by Morgan Radford . An additional example is a news article published by the UN News regarding The Gambia and UNFPA 's efforts to address period poverty by distributing sanitary pads and pressing for international acknowledgement through Menstrual Hygiene Day. Social media have publicized discussion surrounding menstruation and period poverty in

888-399: A cord or string for removal. The majority of tampons sold are made of rayon, or a blend of rayon and cotton . Organic cotton tampons are marketed as 100% cotton, but they may have plastic covering the cotton core. Tampons may also come in scented or unscented varieties. Tampons are available in several absorbency ratings, which are consistent across manufacturers in the U.S. These differ in

999-617: A critical aspect of period poverty: the lack of accessible and safe restroom facilities for all gender identities. The experience of menstruation intersects deeply with gender identity, shaping how transgender and genderqueer individuals perceive themselves and are perceived by others. Social interactions, public spaces, and even healthcare encounters can reinforce gender norms, complicating the already challenging experience of menstruation for these individuals. Packaging, designs, commercials, and “feminine product” aisles in stores serve as indicators to transgender, non-binary and intersex people that

1110-570: A douching agent. When it comes to bacterial vaginosis, African American women are 2.9 times more likely to be diagnosed with bacterial vaginosis compared to women of European ancestry, possibly due to variations in their "normal" vaginal flora. To observe the menstrual hygiene in adolescent girls, a study was conducted in a secondary school in Singur West Bengal. Conducted as a descriptive, cross-sectional study involving 160 girls in West Bengal,

1221-531: A groundbreaking move to tackle the crucial matter of menstrual equality. Alongside this, educational reforms have been introduced in several countries, incorporating menstrual health education into school curricula. In the UK , as part of the Department for Education's guidance, all primary schools are required to teach pupils about menstrual health under the new Relationships and Health Education curriculum (RSHE). In Canada , B.C. has committed $ 750,000 in funding to

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1332-549: A growing recognition of menstrual health as a vital public health and gender equality issue. In general, a common legislative approach adopted by many developing countries in the fight against period poverty is the reduction or elimination of taxes on menstrual products. Bangladesh decided to waive the value-added tax (VAT) on raw materials temporarily to encourage more local production of these goods. In 2004, Kenya started eliminating taxes on menstrual products and by 2016, it had also removed VAT on imported menstrual items and

1443-455: A harder time for women to manage feminine hygiene. Tampon tax is a shorthand for sales tax charged on tampons, pads, and menstrual cups. The cost of these commercial products for menstrual management is considered to be unacceptably high for many low-income women. At least half a million women across the world do not have enough money to adequately afford these products. This can result in missing days of school or even dropping out entirely in

1554-574: A health and human rights issue, not a hygiene issue. Activists, including the youth, along with nonprofit organizations, have made significant efforts to bring attention to menstrual health concerns. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) raised four approaches to promoting and improving menstrual health around the world: There is an argument to be made that the descriptive representation of women in executive and legislative bodies may bring about more government-level remedies to period poverty. For example, Sarah Childs and Julie Withey investigated

1665-539: A household survey conducted by Anand et al. indicated that women employing unhygienic methods during menstruation—excluding sanitary pads or locally prepared napkins—were 1.04 times more likely to report symptoms of reproductive tract infections. Furthermore, these women were 1.3 times more likely to experience abnormal vaginal discharge, encompassing symptoms like itching, vulvar irritation, lower abdomen pain, pain during urination or defecation, and low back pain. In another investigation, findings revealed that women engaging in

1776-921: A lack of access to proper menstrual products and the education needed to use them effectively. In total, there are around 500 million women and girls that cannot manage their periods safely due to lack of menstrual products and for fear of shame. The American Medical Women's Association defines period poverty as "the inadequate access to menstrual hygiene tools and educations, including but not limited to sanitary products, washing facilities, and waste management". The lack of access to menstrual hygiene products can cause physical health problems, such as infections and reproductive tract complications, and can have negative social and psychological consequences, including missed school or work days and stigma. The causes of consequences of period poverty intersect issues of gender equality and economic justice , and there are diverse acts of legislation and perceptions of period poverty around

1887-408: A lot of energy and creates long-lasting waste, the main impact from the life cycle of these products is fossil fuel use, though the waste produced is significant in its own right. The menstrual material was disposed according to the type of product, and even based on cultural beliefs. This was done regardless of giving any importance to the location and proper techniques of disposal. In some areas of

1998-675: A member of the European Union; EU law prohibited the UK or any EU member state from removing the 5% VAT imposed on sanitary products. The Federal Bureau of Prisons in the United States announced that women in its facilities would be guaranteed free menstrual pads and tampons. In section 411 of the First Step Act which was passed on May 22, 2018 states, "The Director of the Bureau of Prisons shall make

2109-401: A menstrual belt could be between 2.75 – 3.50 SEK and pads had to be purchased for about 4–5 SEK each, depending on the size of the pack. From the price information available, menstrual protection was likely a costly purchase that was not available to everyone. The sanitary belt can be seen as a modern version of the menstrual belt, but more like a girdle . The function of the belt is to hold

2220-707: A menstruous woman.” In 1694, books on midwifery likened menstruating women to “a mythical beast with venomous breath” on account of their shared ability to “disperse poison through the air.” In the US specifically, Thinx found that 80% of sampled 13- to 19-year-olds believe periods have a negative association. This same study found that 57% have felt personally affected by this negative association, and 64% think society generally teaches girls to be ashamed of their periods. Physical, mental health, and social costs arise when women have limited or inconsistent access to period products and adequate menstrual hygiene management. A study from

2331-617: A minimum of 5% VAT on sanitary products. Since 1 January 2021, VAT applied to menstrual sanitary products has been 0%. In Canada, the federal government has removed the goods and services tax (GST) and harmonized sales tax (HST) from tampons and other menstrual hygiene products as of 1 July 2015. In the US, access to menstrual products such as pads and tampons and taxes added on these products, have also been controversial topics especially when it comes to people with low income. Laws for exempting such taxes differ vastly from state to state. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has published

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2442-472: A possible use to detect endometrial cancer . Endometrial cancer does not currently have effective cancer screening methods if an individual is not showing symptoms. Tampons not only absorb menstrual blood, but also vaginal fluids. The vaginal fluids absorbed in the tampons would also contain the cancerous DNA, and possibly contain precancerous material, allowing for earlier detection of endometrial cancer. Clinical trials are currently being conducted to evaluate

2553-523: A purification practice. In regions like Mozambique and South Africa, certain women opt for internal cleansing of their vaginas using substances such as lemon juice, saltwater, or vinegar with the intention of eliminating vaginal discharge and "treating" sexually transmitted diseases. A research study involving 500 women in Iran revealed a notable association between bacterial vaginosis and inadequate menstrual and vaginal hygiene practices. Additionally, findings from

2664-495: A quarter of those experiencing homelessness in the UK; in the USA, it is a similar percentage as women account for 28% of the homeless population. Women experiencing homelessness struggle with access to menstrual products; shelters either lack or run out of menstrual products, access to public toilets can sometimes be tricky and often homelessness women resort to theft to obtain menstrual products. Another common issues amongst homeless women

2775-623: A report discussing these laws and listing the different guidelines followed by institutions such as schools, shelters, and prisons when providing menstrual goods. Feminine hygiene Feminine hygiene products are either disposable or reusable . Sanitary napkins, tampons, and pantyliners are disposable feminine hygiene products. Menstrual cups, cloth menstrual pads, period panties, and sponges are reusable feminine hygiene products. Disposable: Reusable: Areas of concern: The different products may carry some health risks, some of which might be proven, others speculative. The vulva acts as

2886-479: A seller, manufacturer, and spokesperson in 1933. Tenderich hired women to manufacture the item and then hired two sales associates to market the product to drugstores in Colorado and Wyoming, and nurses to give public lectures on the benefits of the creation, and was also instrumental in inducing newspapers to run advertisements. In 1945, Tampax presented a number of studies to prove the safety of tampons. A 1965 study by

2997-467: A sense of alienation and discomfort within healthcare settings. Transgender, non-binary, intersex experience period poverty in tandem with discrimination and stigma due to their identities. Trans, non-binary, gender fluid, and intersex individuals have unique challenges when it comes to period poverty. First, is the lack of data collection as menstrual equity projects tend to only collect data related to women and girls. This makes it difficult to understand

3108-402: A sex-segregated manner whereby an individual’s biologically assigned legal sex dictates where they will be placed in the facility. There's little regard for differential experiences according to sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Given that menstruation is often assumed to be a process largely experienced by women, access to menstrual products for transgender and non-binary

3219-669: A social and public health issue in the latter part of the decade, with a notable increase in coverage and discussion in mainstream media, advocacy campaigns, and public policy initiatives. Sociocultural attention to period poverty in the UK has increased since 2016, attributed to factors like the dismantling of the welfare state, menstruation-focused feminism, and support from high-profile individuals. Digital activism including celebrity endorsements and political commitments have encouraged period poverty discourse. Analysis displays how period poverty mediates discussions around impoverishment and class in contemporary UK society. The BBC published

3330-438: A substitute for menstrual products. Homeless women could feel uncomfortable asking staff at shelters for menstrual products; this can be a result of uneven power dynamics as well as the sociocultural stigmas around menstruation. Shelters themselves struggle with inconsistent supplies and can often resort to rationing menstrual supplies due to shipping failures. Improper period management can lead to adverse health effects, leaving

3441-415: A syringe. The applicator consists of two tubes, an "outer", or barrel, and "inner", or plunger. The outer tube has a smooth surface to aid insertion and sometimes comes with a rounded end that is petaled. Differences exist in the way tampons expand when in use: applicator tampons generally expand axially (increase in length), while digital tampons will expand radially (increase in diameter). Most tampons have

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3552-408: A tampon in 1860 as: "a less inelegant term for the plug , whether made up of portions of rag, sponge, or a silk handkerchief, where plugging the vagina is had recourse to in cases of hemorrhage." Earle Haas patented the first modern tampon, Tampax , with the tube-within-a-tube applicator. Gertrude Schulte Tenderich (née Voss) bought the patent rights to her company trademark Tampax and started as

3663-677: A tampon in for more than eight hours puts the user at risk for toxic shock syndrome , a life-threatening condition which can cause flu-like symptoms, low blood pressure, and organ failure. Menstrual products can also cause vaginal itchiness, irritation, and increased discharge when used after expiration. While a menstrual cup should be replaced every two years, tampons and pads typically expire after five years. Period poverty can additionally impact reproductive health, as those with female anatomy who lack  access to adequate menstrual mitigation resources are at higher risk for infertility , recurrent abortions , and ectopic pregnancies . Furthermore,

3774-679: A tampon in for too long can result in toxic shock syndrome or urinary tract infections , infrequent washing can cause skin infections and many other complications. These issues are exacerbated when an individual is unhoused. Globally, 740,000 women and girls are held in prison. The USA accounts for roughly 30% of the world's incarcerated women with about 211,375 female prisoners according to 2022 data. Countries with similar high rates of female prisoners are China with an estimated 145,000 (plus unknown women and girls held in pre-trial detention and administrative detention), Brazil (42,694), Russia (39,120) and Thailand (32,952). Understanding period poverty

3885-981: A unique manner that encourages open dialogue. Campaigns like #tweetyourperiod and #Periodsarenotaninsult unify menstruators globally, igniting discussions about sustainability and menstrual health among diverse audiences. Nadya Okamoto, founder of the organization PERIOD., utilized TikTok to reach a vast demographic of consumers to drive advocacy efforts. Her venture, August, selling sustainable menstrual products, exemplifies social media's role in mobilizing support for social causes like menstrual equity. Candice Chirwa, 'The Minister of Menstruation,' and Siv Ngesi, co-founder of The MENstruation Foundation, utilize social media to combat period poverty in South Africa. Through platforms like Instagram and Twitter , they raise awareness and engage communities in education and product distribution efforts. The academy award-winning Netflix documentary, " Period. End of Sentence. ," elucidates

3996-685: Is a life-threatening disease most commonly caused by infection of superantigen -producing Staphylococcus aureus . The superantigen toxin secreted in S. aureus infections is TSS Toxin-1, or TSST -1. Incidence ranges from 0.03 to 0.50 cases per 100,000 people, with an overall mortality around 8%. mTSS signs and symptoms include fever (greater than or equal to 38.9 °C), rash, desquamation , hypotension ( systolic blood pressure less than 90 mmHg), and multi-system organ involvement with at least three systems, such as gastrointestinal complications (vomiting), central nervous system (CNS) effects (disorientation), and myalgia . Toxic shock syndrome

4107-603: Is a rare but serious disease that may cause death. Read and save the enclosed information." Such guidelines for package labeling are more lenient when it comes to tampons bought from vending machines. For example, tampons sold in vending machines are not required by the FDA to include labeling such as absorbency ratings or information about TSS. The average person who menstruates uses approximately 11,400 tampons in their lifetime, assuming exclusive use of tampons. Tampon prices have risen due to inflation and supply chain challenges. Currently,

4218-887: Is another instance of film displaying menstrual equity struggles globally. Led by a predominantly female team, the production exposes the struggles faced by women due to the lack of access to menstrual products, while simultaneously stressing the activism and advocacy efforts driving change. Roof and Roots in Lebanon , sustained by organizations like ACTED and UN Women , revolve around grassroots action and economic empowerment. Continued research, policy advocacy, and community-based interventions are exercised to address period poverty and promote menstrual justice. PERIOD. annually distributes menstrual products and engages in efforts such as authoring menstrual health curriculum and empowering young, developing leaders to advocate for menstrual justice policies. The organization prioritizes women's autonomy and

4329-610: Is as follows: The bulk of these bills are concerned with providing menstrual health products to incarcerated people, as well as providing them in nurse's offices and bathrooms within that state's school districts. Additionally, many states have passed bills to lessen (or remove entirely) sales taxes on feminine hygiene products. Globally, proposals to reduce or eliminate taxes on menstrual products or their inputs have gained prominence, and an increasing number of countries have taken different approaches. Developing countries are adopting diverse approaches to combat period poverty, reflecting

4440-560: Is due to feelings of isolation and exclusion that menstruation may bring about if a menstruator feels they cannot adequately "handle" the situation. Globally, women who menstruate often rely on euphemisms to discuss menstruation. For example, the use of these phrases such as “‘strawberry week’ in Austria , ‘I’m with Chico’ in Brazil , and ‘Granny’s stuck in traffic’ in South Africa can contribute to

4551-542: Is far worse and often non-existent. This intersects with the denial and misgendering of trans and non-binary identities in the carceral system. In the 2018, The First Step Act was passed in the USA. This legislation states that all federal prisons should make tampons and sanitary products available free of charge. Period poverty is often discussed in the context of cisgender women. However, menstruation and period poverty itself extends its impact to transgender, non-binary, and intersex individuals. It's important to highlight

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4662-486: Is finding a safe space to effectively manage menstruation. It is difficult to find a clean, private space to utilize and change menstrual products. Homeless women report that public toilets are unsanitary and are not fit for changing their menstrual products. Additionally, the stigma around homelessness means often they are turned away from public and privately owned bathrooms. Sometimes makeshift pads constructed from clothing material, rags or waddled toilet paper are used as

4773-420: Is more susceptible to topical agents compared to forearm skin due to increased hydration, occlusion, and friction. The non-keratinized vulvar vestibule is likely more permeable than keratinized skin. Notably, genital skin is unique with a thin stratum corneum and large hair follicles, making it easier for microbes and substances to permeate. The vagina, a fibromuscular canal extending from its external opening in

4884-467: Is often in place for other basic need products. Several political statements have been made in regards to tampon use. In 2000, a 10% goods and services tax (GST) was introduced in Australia. While lubricant, condoms, incontinence pads and numerous medical items were regarded as essential and exempt from the tax, tampons continue to be charged GST. Prior to the introduction of GST, several states also applied

4995-459: Is to also acknowledge that not only women and girls menstruate but also transgender and non-binary people do as well. Period poverty in prisons arises from a penal system that weaponises menstruation as a form of oppression and punishment. Prisons often have an inadequate supply of menstrual products, increased pricing of menstrual products and poor quality of tools to manage menstruation. Allotments for tampons and pads don't take into consideration

5106-706: The Ivory Coast , women have severely limited or no access to menstrual products and due to overcrowding, the risk of infections is incredibly high. As menstrual products aren't handed out freely and given at the will of prison staff, it has been documented that some prison guards have exchanged menstrual products for sexual favours or raped inmates. This demonstrates the unequal power dynamics between inmates and prison staff. In 2020, federal officer Colin Akparanta pled guilty to sexually abusing inmates in exchange for feminine hygiene products. The carceral system still operates on

5217-595: The 160 respondents, 108 (67.5%) girls were aware of menstruation before experiencing menarche. Mothers were the primary source of information for 60 (37.5%) girls. A majority, 138 (86.25%), considered menstruation a physiological process. Only 78 (48.75%) girls were familiar with the use of sanitary pads during menstruation. In terms of practices, merely 18 (11.25%) girls used sanitary pads during menstruation. For cleaning purposes, 156 (97.5%) girls utilized both soap and water. Regarding restrictions, 136 (85%) girls adhered to various restrictions during menstruation. According to

5328-466: The FDA. The manufacturer is also required to include on the package label the absorbency rating and a comparison to other absorbency ratings as an attempt to help consumers choose the right product and avoid complications of TSS. In addition, The following statement of association between tampons and TSS is required by the FDA to be on the package label as part of the labeling requirements: "Attention: Tampons are associated with Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). TSS

5439-555: The Rock Reproductive Clinic stated that the use of tampons "has no physiological or clinical undesired side effects". During her study of female anatomy, German gynecologist Judith Esser-Mittag developed a digital-style tampon, which was made to be inserted without an applicator. In the late 1940s, Carl Hahn and Heinz Mittag worked on the mass production of this tampon. Hahn sold his company to Johnson & Johnson in 1974. In 1992, Congress found an internal FDA memo about

5550-503: The UK, the Absorbent Hygiene Product Manufacturers Association (AHPMA) has written a Tampon Code of Practice which companies can follow on a volunteer basis. According to this code, UK manufacturers should follow the (European) EDANA code (see above). A piece of test equipment referred to as a Syngyna (short for synthetic vagina) is usually used to test absorbency. The machine uses a condom into which

5661-724: The United Kingdom and United States. A controversial study by Tierno found that all-cotton tampons were less likely than rayon tampons to produce the conditions in which TSS can grow. This was done using a direct comparison of 20 brands of tampons, including conventional cotton/rayon tampons and 100% organic cotton tampons. In a series of studies conducted after this initial claim, it was shown that all tampons (regardless of composition) are similar in their effect on TSS and that tampons made with rayon do not have an increased incidence of TSS. Instead, tampons should be selected based on minimum absorbency rating necessary to absorb flow corresponding to

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5772-560: The United States, the Tampon Safety and Research Act was introduced to Congress in 1997 in an attempt to create transparency between tampon manufacturers and consumers. The bill would mandate the conduct or support of research on the extent to which additives in feminine hygiene products pose any risks to the health of women or to the children of women who use those products during or before the pregnancies involved. Although yet to be passed,

5883-571: The United States, they are considered to be a Class II medical device by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are sometimes used for hemostasis in surgery . Tampon design varies between companies and across product lines in order to offer a variety of applicators, materials and absorbencies. There are two main categories of tampons based on the way of insertion – digital tampons inserted by finger, and applicator tampons. Tampon applicators may be made of plastic or cardboard, and are similar in design to

5994-474: The United Way to establish a task force that will look at long-term solutions for period poverty. Approximately half of the funding will go toward supporting the task force and half will go toward supplying free menstrual products for people who need them. International organizations also play a global role. The World Health Organization (WHO) calls for menstrual Health to be recognized, framed, and addressed as

6105-457: The VAT from its own policy measure to a budget commitment, which made it easier to get passed. A lack of media coverage regarding period poverty and its consequences is said to have further propagated the negation of how severe the issue is. Period poverty began receiving increased acknowledgment in media and news outlets around the early to mid-2010s. It gained more significant attention and traction as

6216-450: The Women's Environmental Network research briefing on menstrual products made from wood pulp: The basic ingredient for menstrual pads is wood pulp, which begins life as a brown coloured product. Various 'purification' processes can be used to bleach it white. Measurable levels of dioxin have been found near paper pulping mills, where chlorine has been used to bleach the wood pulp. Dioxin is one of

6327-742: The Women’s Health Group at Boston Medical Center centering on college-aged females in the United States reported that some women who could not afford pads or tampons used more cost-effective materials to prevent leakage, including rags, toilet paper, and children’s diapers. If the materials are unsanitary, resorting to alternative methods to mitigate one’s period can put them at higher risk of urogenital infections, such as bacterial vaginosis and urinary tract infections (UTIs). Moreover, women may leave tampons in their bodies longer than recommended and/ or use period products past their expiration dates. Using an unsterilised menstrual cup or leaving

6438-594: The World Health Organization, as of 2018 there are about 1.9 billion women who are of reproductive age. In low-income countries, women's choices of menstrual hygiene materials are often limited by the costs, availability and social norms. Not only are women's choices limited but, according to the WHO and Unicef, 780 million people do not have access to improved water sources and about 2.5 billion people lack access to improved sanitation. The lack of proper hygiene leads to

6549-442: The amount of cotton in each product and are measured based on the amount of fluid they are able to absorb. The absorbency rates required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for manufacturer labeling are listed below: Absorbency ratings outside the US may be different. The majority of non-US manufacturers use absorbency rating and Code of Practice recommended by EDANA (European Disposables and Nonwovens Association). In

6660-547: The bill has been continually reintroduced, most recently in 2019 as the Robin Danielson Feminine Hygiene Product Safety Act . Data would also be required from manufacturers regarding the presence of dioxins, synthetic fibers, chlorine, and other components (including contaminants and substances used as fragrances, colorants, dyes, and preservatives) in their feminine hygiene products. "Tampon tax" refers to tampons' lack of tax exempt status that

6771-439: The body. The FDA suggests the following guidelines for decreasing the risk of contracting TSS when using tampons: The FDA also advises those with a history of TSS not to use tampons and instead turn to other feminine hygiene products to control menstrual flow. Other menstrual hygiene products available include pads, menstrual cups , menstrual discs, and reusable period underwear. Cases of tampon-connected TSS are very rare in

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6882-481: The body. Example of these medications include clindamycin , terconazole , miconazole , clotrimazole , when used as a vaginal cream or vaginal suppository, as well as butoconazole vaginal cream. According to the American Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation (ASBMT), tampons may be responsible for an increased risk of infection due to the erosions it causes in the tissue of the cervix and vagina, leaving

6993-553: The complexity of varying gendered experiences surrounding menstruation. For these marginalised groups, accessing safe and accommodating spaces to manage menstruation can be fraught with challenges that can exacerbate feelings of insecurity and exclusion. Accessing inclusive and affirming healthcare remains a significant hurdle for transgender, non-binary, and intersex individuals experiencing menstruation. Despite efforts to accommodate diverse gender identities, misgendering and insensitive inquiries about menstruation persist, contributing to

7104-550: The cotton, rayon and fiber finishes, these materials are not biodegradable . Organic cotton tampons are biodegradable, but must be composted to ensure they break down in a reasonable amount of time. Rayon was found to be more biodegradable than cotton. Environmentally friendly alternatives to using tampons are the menstrual cup , reusable sanitary pads , menstrual sponges , reusable tampons, and reusable absorbent underwear . The Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm carried out

7215-482: The decision of Great Britain's Labour Party -led government to reduce the value-added tax on sanitary products in their 2000 budget. They found that, although it was then-Chancellor Gordon Brown who put forth the budget, it was the actions of MP Christine McCafferty that spearheaded this decision. In the years leading up to 2000 the Parliamentary Labor Party Women's Group put the VAT reduction at

7326-438: The different requirements and needs of individuals to effectively manage their menstrual cycle. This results in incarcerated individuals having to bleed through their clothes or resorting to use unsuitable measures to manage their periods. Limited or deprivation of access to menstrual products leads to women in prisons using ripped bedsheets, mattress stuffing, ripped bedsheets, socks, toilet paper and soiled, days-old tampons. In

7437-676: The difficulty of accessing menstrual products as trans, non-binary and intersex people who already face economic constraints related to their gender identity, such as healthcare and other gender-affirming expenses. Transgender and non-binary people are more likely to live in poverty than cisgender people, this exacerbates issues related to period poverty. Trans, non-binary, gender fluid, and intersex individuals face challenges accessing gender-affirming healthcare, such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and gender-affirming surgeries, which can be costly and leave them with fewer resources to effectively address their menstrual health needs. Menstruation isn't

7548-534: The economic costs of the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to heightened inequity, specifically surrounding period poverty. A United States-based study published in 2023 found that 18.5% of the women surveyed struggled to afford menstrual products during the pandemic. Period poverty also relates to the " pink tax ", a hypothesis which alleges that health products marketed towards females are substantially more expensive than similar products marketed towards males. Specifically,

7659-572: The effort of eradicating period poverty through policy. Amika George , the founder of the Free Periods campaign, advocated for free sanitary products in UK schools at 17 years old. George emphasizes the potential for grassroots political involvement , embodying the value of individual activism on policy outcomes. Damaris Pereda, national programs director at PERIOD., played a significant role in advocating for menstrual equity in California , leading to

7770-431: The findings revealed that a significant portion of respondents became aware of menstruation before menarche, with mothers being the primary source of information. While the majority recognized menstruation as a physiological process, knowledge and usage of sanitary pads were limited. Most girls employed soap and water for cleaning purposes, and a considerable percentage observed various restrictions during menstruation. Among

7881-404: The forefront of their agenda, and it was McCafferty's membership on this group that perhaps compelled her to table 3 early day motions (EDMs) in the months leading up to budgeting on this same topic. In the run-up to the budget session McCafferty conducted an interview on BBC Woman's Hour , implying that this reduction would be made in the upcoming budget. This shifted the conversation surrounding

7992-402: The governance or implementation of menstrual waste management is how country categorizes menstrual waste. This waste could be considered as a common household waste, hazardous household waste (which will required to be segregated from routine household waste), biomedical waste given amount of blood it contains, or plastic waste given the plastic content in many commercial disposal pads (some only

8103-538: The healthcare products described in subsection (c) available to prisoners for free, in a quantity that is appropriate to the healthcare needs of each prisoner". Some girls and women may view tampons and menstrual cups as affecting their virginity even though they have not engaged in sexual intercourse . For those with autism , using pads before menstruation begins may help reduce sensory issues associated with menstrual hygiene products. Prior education and practice may help familiarize an individual with body changes and

8214-485: The individual. Sea sponges are also marketed as menstrual hygiene products. A 1980 study by the University of Iowa found that commercially sold sea sponges contained harmful materials like sand and bacteria . Studies have shown non-significantly higher mean levels of mercury in tampon users compared to non tampon users. No evidence showed an association between tampon use and inflammation biomarkers. According to

8325-460: The initial defense line, shielding the genital tract from infections. Often, contaminants accumulate in the folds of the vulva, and factors like increased moisture, sweating, menstruation, and hormonal fluctuations can impact the growth and balance of microbial species, potentially leading to odor and vulvovaginal infections. Distinct from other skin areas, vulvar skin exhibits variations in hydration, friction, permeability, and visible irritation. It

8436-457: The intersectionality of period poverty and how menstruators who aren't women are impacted by their inability to access menstrual products and WASH facilities. There's often la ack of support and understanding of how period poverty impacts transgender, non-binary and intersex individuals. The consequences of this is the scarcity of targeted support programs and resources to address menstrual needs and hygiene requirements. Financial barriers add to

8547-527: The lack of access to menstrual hygiene products and facilities can have negative impacts on women’s mental health. Issue Five of HealthCare for Women International featured a study conducted in France regarding the impact of period poverty on the development of mental health issues found that 49.4% of women experiencing period poverty in their sample reported at least one symptom of anxiety or depression . Mental illnesses, in conjunction with period poverty, have

8658-506: The menstrual cup, with an early patent dating from 1903. Menstrual belts were another form that menstrual protection took and began to appear in the late 19th century. They were made so that the pad itself was contained in a special holder that was fastened around the waist with a belt. The pads in these designs are referred to as "suction pads" in Swedish patent documents, such as the "Suction pad for menstruation" patent from 1889. The price for

8769-405: The menstrual fluid. However, there are few records of menstrual pads from the pre-industrial era. As artifacts, the various types of menstrual pads have not been preserved or survived in any particular sense, as the cloths used were discarded when they became worn out or the need for them ceased with menopause. However, as technology evolved, commercial hygiene products were introduced in the form of

8880-476: The menstrual pad, also known as the sanitary napkin. In Sweden, this happened at the end of the 19th century and has been linked to an increased focus on cleanliness, personal hygiene and health that occurred in the early part of the 20th century in the wake of urbanization. By the end of the 19th century, the first commercial sanitary napkin had also been introduced on the American market by Johnson & Johnson . It

8991-665: The menstruating body as abnormal and abject”. Menstrual stigma has significant impacts on the lives of those women including their health, education, economic opportunities, and participation in public and social life. The stigma can result in a lack of support for women and the propagation of harmful and misogynistic stereotypes. Period shaming can make women feel insecure about the menstrual process and thus less likely to carry period products on hand, as well as less likely to have conversations on menstrual health with friends and family members. This, if not mediated, can cause chronic mental illnesses to onset such as depression and anxiety. This

9102-583: The most persistent and toxic chemicals, and can cause reproductive disorders, damage to the immune system and cancer (26). There are no safe levels and it builds up in our fat tissue and in our environment. In the UK, the Marine Conservation Society has researched the prevalence and problem of plastic tampon applicators found on beaches. Disposal of tampons, especially flushing (which manufacturers warn against) may lead to clogged drains and waste management problems. There are multiple cases in which

9213-863: The only reason trans and non-binary people need menstrual products; trans women and non-binary people may also need pads and liners after vaginoplasty or for other reasons. Gendered bathrooms present significant safety concerns for transgender, non-binary, and intersex individuals during menstruation. Men's restrooms often lack discreet disposal options for period products, while women's restrooms may not feel safe for those who do not conform to traditional gender expectations. A study done on menstruation management for queer individuals found that 66% of respondents who used men's bathroom felt unsafe using them to change menstrual products; 39% of respondents who used female bathrooms felt uncomfortable doing so. Menstrual products are gendered as products for women thus they are often not placed in men's bathrooms. This dilemma underscores

9324-579: The outer case of the tampon or pads). Ecological impact varies according to disposal method (whether a tampon is flushed down the toilet or placed in a garbage bin – the latter is the recommended option). Factors such as tampon composition will likewise impact sewage treatment plants or waste processing. The average use of tampons in menstruation may add up to approximately 11,400 tampons in someone's lifetime (if they use only tampons rather than other products). Tampons are made of cotton, rayon, polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, and fiber finishes. Aside from

9435-409: The pad in place while giving the user greater freedom of motion. In Sweden, the product was introduced in the 1940s and was in use until the 1960s. In the 1970s, the adhesive strip on the underside of the pad was introduced, allowing it to be attached to the underwear and held in place without the use of a girdle, safety pin or belt. Period poverty Period poverty is a term used to describe

9546-454: The period poverty prevalent in rural India and the transformative impact of making menstrual products accessible. Through the innovation of a sanitary pad machine in a village adjacent to New Delhi , women were empowered to manufacture and market their own pads. This catalyzed the emergence of a female-dominated industry deterring menstrual and gender inequality , especially in the workforce. " Pandora's Box: Lifting The Lid On Menstruation "

9657-551: The potential to exacerbate substance abuse , self-harm , and related concerns. The stigma surrounding menstruation can also contribute to shame and social exclusion for those who experience period poverty. For example, women who cannot afford products to mitigate leakage may opt to miss school or work because of their period. According to UNESCO ’s 2013 Global Education Monitoring Report, around 10% of youth who menstruate miss school during their period due to lack of access to menstrual health management (MHM) resources. In addition,

9768-553: The presence of dioxin , a known carcinogen, in tampons. Dioxin is one of the toxic chemicals produced when wood pulp is bleached with chlorine. Congressional hearings were held and tampon manufacturers assured Congress that the trace levels of dioxin in tampons was well below EPA level. The EPA has stated there is no acceptable level of dioxin. Following this, major commercial tampon brands began switching from dioxin-producing chlorine gas bleaching methods to either elemental "chlorine-free" or "totally chlorine free" bleaching processes. In

9879-458: The process of using products associated with menstruation. Menstruation may occur despite paralyzation; product use depends on the individual's personal preference. In ancient Egypt, the Roman Empire and Indonesia, various natural materials – wool, grass, papyrus – were used as tampons. In ancient Japan, the tampon was made of paper and held in place by a special binder called kama , and

9990-459: The raw materials needed for their production. Likewise, Nigeria exempted locally made products from VAT. Several countries including Malaysia , Lebanon , Tanzania , Colombia , and Mexico have eliminated VAT on menstrual products entirely. In the Philippines , deputies from different parties separately filed similar bills this year proposing a two-day menstrual leave for female employees in

10101-513: The risk of toxic shock syndrome by changing the normal pH of the vagina and increasing the risk of infections from the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus . TSS is a rare but life-threatening infection that requires immediate medical attention. The majority of tampons sold are made of blends of rayon and cotton , along with synthetic fibers. Some tampons are made out of organic cotton. Tampons are available in several absorbency ratings. Several countries regulate tampons as medical devices. In

10212-581: The skin prone to infections. Thus, ASBMT advises hematopoietic stem cell transplantation recipients against using tampons while undergoing therapy. Tampons are currently being used and tested to restore and/or maintain the normal microbiota of the vagina to treat bacterial vaginosis . Some of these are available to the public but come with disclaimers. The efficacy of the use of these probiotic tampons has not been established. Tampons have also been used in cases of tooth extraction to reduce post-extraction bleeding. Tampons are currently being investigated as

10323-505: The surge in cases of TSS. However, a later meta-analysis found that the material composition of tampons is not directly correlated to the incidence of toxic shock syndrome, whereas oxygen and carbon dioxide content of menstrual fluid uptake is associated more strongly. In 1982, a liability case called Kehm v. Proctor & Gamble took place, where the family of Patricia Kehm sued Procter & Gamble for her death on September 6, 1982, from TSS, while using Rely brand tampons . The case

10434-571: The taboo surrounding menstruation . In some cultures around the world, menstrual blood itself is seen as unholy and women are encouraged to hide signs of menstrual bleeding from their male counterparts. These beliefs can be traced far back to the early stages of civilization. For example, in AD 70 Pliny the Elder wrote that menstruation was “productive of the most monstrous effects” and that crops would “wither and die” and bees would “forsake their hives if touched by

10545-508: The tampon is inserted, and synthetic menstrual fluid is fed into the test chamber. A novel way of testing was developed by feminist medical experts after the toxic shock syndrome (TSS) crisis, and used blood – rather than the industry standard blue saline – as a test material. The FDA requires the manufacturer to perform absorbency testing to determine the absorbency rating using the Syngyna ;method or other methods that are approved by

10656-426: The use of bubble bath on the vulva exhibited a twofold increase in the likelihood of experiencing bacterial vaginosis, in contrast to those who refrained from using this product. Furthermore, the occurrence of bacterial vaginosis was three times greater among women who applied antiseptic solutions to the vulva or within the vagina. Additionally, the frequency of bacterial vaginosis was six times higher in women utilizing

10767-431: The use of soft papyrus tampons by Egyptian women in the fifteenth century B.C. Roman women used wool tampons. Women in ancient Japan fashioned tampons out of paper, held them in place with a bandage, and changed them 10 to 12 times a day. Traditional Hawaiian women used the furry part of a native fern called hapu'u ; and grasses, mosses and other plants are still used by women in parts of Asia and Africa. R. G. Mayne defined

10878-410: The use of tampons as a screening method for early detection of endometrial cancer. Appropriate disposal of used tampons is still lacking in many countries. Because the lack of menstrual management practices in some countries, many sanitary pads or other menstrual products will be disposed into domestic solid wastes or garbage bins that eventually becomes part of a solid wastes. The issue that underlies

10989-472: The use of tampons may need medical advice from a healthcare professional. For example, as part of the National Institutes of Health , the U.S. National Library of Medicine and its branch MedlinePlus advise against using tampons while being treated with any of several medications taken by the vaginal route such as vaginal suppositories and creams, as tampons may decrease the absorbance of these drugs by

11100-725: The vaginal walls, along with mucus and fluid (plasma) produced by the cervix and vagina. Throughout the menstrual cycle, the quantity and consistency of the discharge undergo variations. At the start and end of the cycle when estrogen levels are low, the discharge is dense, adhesive, and unwelcoming to sperm. As estrogen levels increase before ovulation, the discharge gradually becomes clearer, more liquid, and stretchier. Feminine hygiene presents discrepancies in various ethnic groups. Differences in feminine hygiene practices are often associated with varying cultural beliefs and religious customs. Research indicates that Afro-Caribbean immigrants, in contrast to Caucasian women, are more inclined to cleanse

11211-456: The vulva to the cervix, is primarily composed of smooth muscle covered by a non-keratinized epithelial lining. This lining, until menopause, remains thick, kept moist by fluid from the vaginal wall and mucus from cervical and vestibular glands. Before reaching puberty until after menopause, women typically experience a natural and healthy occurrence of vaginal discharge. This discharge comprises bacteria, desquamated epithelial cells shedding from

11322-476: The vulva with bubble bath or antiseptic. This practice aligns with the belief in the necessity of thorough body cleansing for health and well-being. Among Orthodox Jewish women, a ritual bath known as mikveh is performed after menstrual periods or childbirth to achieve ritual purity. In the Muslim faith, both men and women partake in a bathing ritual called full ablution (ghusl) after sexual intercourse or menstruation as

11433-462: The workforce. The Philippine government has also provided education and information about menstrual health across 60 percent of schools. Approaches in developed countries not only include tax reductions or eliminations but also range from providing free menstrual products and the implementation of supportive policies. For instance, Scotland created a significant milestone by being the pioneer in providing free menstrual products for everyone, marking

11544-425: The world, menstrual waste is disposed into pit latrines, as burning and burial were difficult due to limited private space. Women have used tampons during menstruation for thousands of years. In her book Everything You Must Know About Tampons (1981), Nancy Friedman writes, [T]here is evidence of tampon use throughout history in a multitude of cultures. The oldest printed medical document, Ebers Papyrus , refers to

11655-494: The world. Moreover, social media, consciousness raising , awareness campaigns, and the arts provide avenues for modern day advocacy regarding period poverty. A variety of cultural factors contribute to period poverty. One of the leading cultural factors that contributes to period poverty is menstrual stigma , also known as period shaming. The National Library of Medicine defines menstrual stigma as “the negative perception of menstruation and those who menstruate, characterizing

11766-463: The worst cases. In some jurisdictions, similar necessities like medical devices and toilet paper are not taxed. Several initiatives worldwide advocate to eliminate the tax all together. In some countries, such petitions have already been successful (for example parts of the UK and the United States). The UK abolished the 5% minimum VAT imposed on sanitary products on 1 January 2021, as previously whilst

11877-419: Was a variant of the menstrual pad made of flannel. Advertisements and product information for sanitary pads are the primary source of knowledge about the history of sanitary pads. Sanitary napkins could be made of woven cotton, knitted or crocheted and filled with rags. They could be homemade for personal use or mass-produced and sold, such as in towns that had a textile industry. The menstrual receptacle

11988-414: Was changed up to 12 times a day. In 18th-century Sweden, women in common society were not known to use feminine hygiene products and visible period stains on clothing did not attract much attention. A common expression for menstruation during this period was to "wear the clothes" or "wear the särk ", a chemise -like undergarment. It is likely that pieces of cloth or special rags were used to collect

12099-509: Was named by James K. Todd in 1978. Philip M. Tierno Jr., Director of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology at the NYU Langone Medical Center , helped determine that tampons were behind toxic shock syndrome (TSS) cases in the early 1980s. Tierno blames the introduction of higher-absorbency tampons made with rayon in 1978, as well as the relatively recent decision by manufacturers to recommend that tampons can be worn overnight, for

12210-469: Was the first successful case to sue the company. Procter & Gamble paid $ 300,000 in compensatory damages to the Kehm family. This case can be attributed to the increase in regulations and safety protocol testing for current FDA requirements. Some risk factors identified for developing TSS include recent labor and delivery , tampon use, recent staphylococcus infection, recent surgery , and foreign objects inside

12321-495: Was the very earliest hygiene product to be launched as menstrual protection in Sweden, as early as 1879. It was made of rubber, like many of the hygiene articles of the time, and resembled a bowl-shaped casing that would sit on the outside of the abdomen. The menstrual receptacle is not considered to have gained much popularity. The first half of the 20th century also saw the development of early intravaginal menstrual products similar to

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