The Importance of Feminine Hygiene Products in Schools

Improving Attendance and Academic Engagement

One of the most immediate benefits of providing free feminine hygiene products is a notable reduction in absenteeism. Around 1 in 4 teens in the U.S. have reported missing class because they don’t have access to menstrual products. An Australian study also reported that 13-17% of students report missing school due to a lack of access to menstrual products. Students at schools without access to these products were nearly 2.5 times more likely to report missing classes. Providing these essential supplies ensures students can remain in school, stay focused, and participate fully, free from the stress and distraction of managing their periods.

Supporting Academic Achievement

When students have consistent access to menstrual products, they are better equipped to focus on their education and academic goals. A US study published in BMC Women’s Health showed that university-wide free menstrual product programmes had a positive impact on menstruators’ experiences, reducing stress and helping them concentrate better on their studies. These findings underscore the importance of such initiatives in promoting focus and fostering a more supportive learning environment.

Promoting Dignity, Confidence, and Mental Health

Access to feminine hygiene products and discreet disposal systems also fosters dignity, self-confidence, and wellbeing among students. By removing the taboo around menstruation, schools can help reduce the shame and embarrassment that many students feel.

For those who have experienced period poverty, knowing that their school supports them can alleviate the stress and anxiety associated with managing their periods discreetly. In a 2023 survey by Thinx and PERIOD, 44% of teens feel stressed due to the lack of access to menstrual products in their school.

• United States: Several states, such as California, New York, and Illinois, have mandated free menstrual products in public schools. New York City led the charge by passing local legislation in 2016.
• United Kingdom: In 2022, Scotland became the first country to provide free period products in all public places, including schools and universities.
• Canada: Provinces like Ontario and British Columbia now mandate free menstrual products in schools.
• New Zealand: In 2021, the government announced an initiative to provide free period products to all school students.
• Kenya: Since 2017, the government has provided free sanitary pads to schoolgirls, a policy credited with helping keep girls in school.

Proper menstrual waste management is essential for maintaining hygiene and reducing environmental impact. Different institutions are employing strategies such as:

• Installation of Disposal Units: Many schools now include dedicated disposal units in restrooms, ensuring safe and convenient disposal of used products. Access to a sanitary towel bin is as essential as the provision of sanitary products.
• Education on Proper Disposal: Teaching students proper disposal practices is crucial, particularly as menstrual products must be discarded carefully to avoid plumbing issues and reduce environmental impact.
• Safe Practices for Cleaners & Janitor Staff: In schools and universities, particularly in North America, cleaners and janitors often handle waste disposal. Sanitary disposal units play a vital role in ensuring their safety, offering a hygienic and convenient way to manage waste while minimizing their exposure to it.

• Provide Free Period Products and Safe Disposal Systems: Ensuring students have easy access to free period products and discreet, hygienic disposal options is the first step in normalizing menstrual health and supporting students’ wellbeing.
• Comprehensive Education Programmes: Many schools are integrating menstrual health into health education classes, making it part of the curriculum for all genders to foster a supportive, informed community.
• Student-Led Initiatives: Clubs and student-led projects, such as “Menstruation Stations” that offer free products, create a sense of ownership and activism among students.
• Partnerships with Advocacy Organisations: Collaborations with groups dedicated to menstrual equity bring valuable resources and educational tools to schools.
• Open Discussions: Creating open forums where students can talk about menstruation, learn from each other, and feel seen and supported.

SaniPod™ provides safe, hygienic, and discreet sanitary disposal options, helping to promote period equity in schools. Our touch-free, automatic sanitary bins reduce the stigma associated with menstruation by allowing students to dispose of products easily and discreetly. We even provide mini sanitary bins for smaller spaces and convenience.

SaniPod’s user-friendly design and easy maintenance empower schools to offer a sustainable, clean solution that prioritizes students’ health and wellbeing, providing equal opportunities for all students to manage their periods with dignity. The innovative Pod Petite offers easy and safe servicing, benefiting both schools and janitors. These units are specifically designed for hygienic handling, protecting janitors from direct exposure to waste and reducing contamination risks. Read our blog to learn how your business can manage sanitary waste disposal effectively.

Contact us today to set up more equitable mensural care in your school.