The Taboo of Menstruation and Its Impact on Education
Despite being a natural biological process, menstruation remains a taboo topic in many societies. In Mexico, approximately 43% of girls and adolescents in rural and marginalized areas lack regular access to sanitary pads, according to estimates by UNICEF and the Secretariat of Public Education. This lack of access is not a minor issue; it leads to school absenteeism, recurring infections, and a chain of inequalities that starts during adolescence and extends into adulthood.
The Rising Concept of Menstrual Poverty
The term “menstrual poverty” has gained traction in recent years, describing the situation of those who cannot afford basic necessities like sanitary pads, tampons, or pain relievers. It also refers to the absence of clean water, hygienic spaces, or reliable information. A 2022 survey by Essity revealed that three out of ten Mexican women have missed school or work due to the lack of menstrual products. This reality affects not only physical health but also self-esteem and the right to education.
Initiatives for Menstrual Equity
In this context, various organizations have promoted the free distribution of pads and tampons in public schools. The Mexican Congress approved a reform in 2021 to ensure these products reach secondary schools, although implementation has been uneven across states. The challenge is to normalize menstruation as a public health and human rights issue.
The Menstrual Cup: A Symbol of Autonomy and Sustainability
In recent years, the menstrual cup has become a symbol of autonomy and sustainability. Made from medical-grade silicone, it can be reused for several years and significantly reduces plastic waste associated with pad and tampon use. Economically, it also represents a saving: while a woman might spend between 30,000 and 40,000 pesos throughout her life on disposable products, a cup costs between 400 and 600 pesos and covers several years of menstrual cycles.
Barriers to Menstrual Cup Adoption
However, its adoption faces cultural and accessibility barriers. Many adolescents are discouraged by myths about “losing virginity” or discomfort with their bodies. Moreover, using the cup requires access to clean water and hygienic spaces for sterilization, which may not always be guaranteed in rural communities or workplaces. Therefore, while it represents a powerful alternative, it cannot be considered a one-size-fits-all solution.
Legislative Changes for Menstrual Rights
In 2023, Spain approved a pioneering law allowing women to request paid leave for debilitating menstrual pain. In Mexico, the discussion has reached Congress: a recent initiative was presented to amend the Federal Labor Law and grant up to three days of paid leave for severe dysmenorrhea.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is menstrual poverty? Menstrual poverty refers to the inability to afford menstrual hygiene products, clean water, and hygienic facilities, impacting physical health, self-esteem, and education.
- What is the menstrual cup? The menstrual cup is a reusable alternative to disposable pads and tampons, made from medical-grade silicone. It is more sustainable but faces cultural and accessibility barriers.
- What are the recent legislative changes regarding menstrual rights? Spain approved a law allowing paid leave for severe menstrual pain, while Mexico is discussing similar changes in the Federal Labor Law.
Menstruation should not be a barrier to education, work, or personal development. However, it is for many. Resolving this issue requires comprehensive menstrual education that debunks myths, involves men in the conversation, and promotes stigma-free environments at work and school. It also necessitates a social justice approach, ensuring access to supplies, promoting sustainable options, recognizing menstrual pain in labor laws, and combating stigma towards a comprehensive menstrual policy.
Menstruation should not be a luxury or a reason for discrimination. It is simply a biological function that accompanies women and menstruating individuals for a significant part of their lives. Recognizing it and ensuring dignified conditions is ultimately a matter of equity, health, and human rights.
