2 Estimating the Impact of Menstrual Poverty on Adolescents in Nova Scotia. (21st October 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lukindo, Mary; Price, Victoria E; Pike, Meghan
• Is Part Of: Paediatrics & Child Health. Volume 27: Supplement 3(2022)
• Page Start: e1
• Page End: e1
• Publication Date: 2022-10-21
• Subjects: Pediatrics -- Periodicals; Children -- Health and hygiene -- Periodicals; 618.92
• DOI: 10.1093/pch/pxac100.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1205-7088

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Menstrual poverty is defined as the inability of people who menstruate to obtain menstrual products due to financial burden. The impact of menstrual poverty on adolescents is unknown. Objectives: This study aimed to estimate the impact of menstrual poverty on adolescents who reside in Nova Scotia (NS), Canada. Design/Methods: The authors developed a web-based, 25-item questionnaire, the adolescent Menstrual Poverty Questionnaire (aMPQ), and distributed it via social media. Adolescents who were less than 18 years of age, English-speaking, and living in NS were eligible to complete the survey. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis. 420 adolescents completed the survey, with a mean age of 16.1 years (14.4 – 17.9 years). Results: Results revealed that 65% of respondents do not always have enough money to buy menstrual products. This led to unsafe menstrual hygiene practices including using alternatives for menstrual products (e.g., rags), washing disposable menstrual products, and/or wearing products for longer than intended. 40% of respondents reported a lack of affordability of menstrual products as a cause for school absenteeism and lack of participation in sport/social activities. 70% of respondents feel embarrassed to ask for products even when they are provided for free, and almost all supported the idea of having freely available menstrual products in public washrooms. Conclusion: This study determined that menstrual poverty impacts adolescents in Nova Scotia. To address menstrual poverty, menstrual products should be freely available in all public washrooms, as this will provide unrestricted access to menstruators and promote their full participation in society.