Today is #MenstrualHygieneDay2020! Days like today, of course amongst every other day, it's important to talk about menstruation. #MHDay2020 [THREAD]

Access to menstrual products (i.e. sanitary pads, tampons, and menstrual cups) should not be a commodified luxury. In an @Intimina study, they found that 10% of women in the UK struggle to afford menstrual products, with 25% having to choose b/w food and products at one point

Over the average reproductive lifespan of someone who menstruates, they will spend £5000 on menstrual products. Might I add that these products are deemed a 'luxury good' and are still taxed. (Pending tax cessation January 2021 in the UK) https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/reports/a31263966/tampon-tax-scrapped-uk-government-period-poverty/

What would you do with an extra £5000?

Now, can we talk about the stigma associated with menstruation please. How many of us have been told that menstruation is gross? Has anyone else stuck their pad or tampon in their sleeve as they dash to the toilet to try to keep their best kept secret(?!)?

Where does this stem from? Personally, I remember learning about menstruation as a kid in school. The boys and girls were separated when we learned about puberty. This division and concealment led to embarrassment. Should I keep this to myself?

Now, I'm happy to say that the UK has recently mandated that all pupils learn about menstrual wellbeing in their relationship and sexual education. Regardless of gender. https://www.endometriosis-uk.org/news/menstrual-wellbeing-be-taught-schools-2020-37568#.Xs93Vy3MyfU

Starting these conversations early in life, before a girl experiences menarche is important. Please let's try to use the correct terminology to describe the process, don't be afraid to say vagina or vulva! @vulvapology That way when a girl gets her period, she can be prepared!

Aside from trying to have these conversations, even when they make us uncomfortable, what else can we do to reduce the stigma? To support those who menstruate?

How about donating to organizations which aim to reduce the stigma and abolish period poverty. Why not organize a menstrual product drive and donate to the charity of your choice? Here are two in the UK making a difference to the lives of people who menstruate:

@freedom_4_girls aims to address the stigma and gender inequality associated with menstruation. They provide period products (environmentally and financially friendly options) and education! https://www.freedom4girls.co.uk 

@bloodygood__ is a UK based charity as well, which provides menstrual products for asylum seekers, refugees & those who can't afford them. https://www.bloodygoodperiod.com/about 

Also for anyone in the UK in need of period products, here is a UK COVID-19 Period Support Directory. They provide information about organizations currently offering a COVID-19 support initiative. #PeriodsDontStopForPandemics https://www.wen.org.uk/2020/04/21/uk-period-support-directory-periodsdontstopforpandemics/

These are just a few charities based in the UK, however there are so many more doing incredible work that you can support in your area!

One last thing (on this thread). Urge your employer or your institution to provide menstrual products in the toilets of your place of work. @Ox_wrh has put them in our department, and not only has it been my saving grace more than once, it makes the workplace feel inclusive.

Sometimes, your period comes at unexpected times, and it's nice to know that your place of work/study has your back! So today and everyday let it be known that #MenstruationMatters. Access to safe and equitable menstrual resources is a human right!