According to Plan International UK, nearly two million girls in the UK have missed part of or a full school day due to their period. 

 

In a day and age where girls have the right to education, a right that women of the past fought and struggled for, it is unacceptable that they are being hindered by a normal biological function. 

 

Menstruation affects almost 50% of the world’s population, and yet it is still a taboo subject. 

 

Unfortunately, throughout history, periods have been considered dirty, something that is shameful and socially unacceptable to talk about in public. 

 

This taboo can negatively impact mental health, with people who menstruate feeling alone and isolated.

 

While many schools in the UK do teach girls about periods, the age at which girls have their first period can vary and the length and pain of someone’s menstrual cycle is unique.

 

Therefore, oftentimes, girls are uneducated and confused about what is happening to their bodies and what part of it is really “normal”.

 

Shivani Sohal, a 44 year old woman, recalls her first period.

 

"I didn't know much about it, it was honestly confusing and a bit terrifying".

 

 

So why isn't there more awareness about period poverty and the stigma around it?

 

Horrifyingly, women all across the world are struggling. 

 

They do not have access to basic period products; there is a distinct lack of proper facilities and they have little to no access to information about their own body. 

 

There are young girls out there scrounging up bits of filthy cloth, things that nobody would willingly put near their body. 

 

This shouldn’t be happening anywhere.

 

Even in the UK, people who menstruate are facing issues. 

 

The cost of living is rising, and period products and basic pain management are beginning to become a financial burden. 

 

Many working women are using up sick days and precious leave because of uncomfortable period pain and are too embarrassed to discuss their issues with their boss or higher ups.

 

And while our world, with all its modernity and progression, may have somewhat tried to tackle the stigma around periods, it isn’t enough.

 

The time to act is now.

 

There are some truly amazing organisations set up in the United Kingdom, such as Freedom4Girls and Bloody Good Period.

 

Do your bit: donate to charities focused on lifting and supporting those who menstruate.