Opinion: The Blind Spot in Poverty Reduction - Menstruation's Impact on Education

Menstruation is frequently a "blind spot" in poverty reduction efforts, despite its profound impact on the education and societal participation of millions of women and girls worldwide. The inability to manage menstruation safely and with dignity prevents many from attending school, working, and engaging in public life, thereby limiting their opportunities for self-determination.

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In many societies, menstruation is considered something that is not talked about. Female menstruation and how it is dealt with can also become an obstacle to education.

Globally, over 500 million women and girls lack access to adequate menstrual products and suitable sanitary facilities, according to UNICEF. This lack of resources is compounded by deep-seated societal taboos that treat menstruation as a topic of shame. Surveys indicate that only about half of women in Germany accept their periods, while the other half struggle with them. This widespread shame leads many girls to hide their menstruation, skip classes, or withdraw from public life.

In countries like Bangladesh, more than a third of girls regularly miss school during their periods. These accumulated absences over the school years result in significant educational gaps, leading many to drop out prematurely. Studies consistently show that women with better education tend to have more control over their family planning, delay childbirth, and possess stronger economic prospects. Therefore, hindering girls' education by neglecting menstrual health directly undermines a crucial driver of sustainable development.

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Globally, more than 500 million women and girls lack adequate access to menstrual products and the appropriate sanitary facilities.

Recognizing menstruation as a health and human rights issue, activists from the Global South have successfully advocated for its recognition by the WHO in 2022. Improving the situation requires addressing not only access to products and facilities but also challenging the pervasive stigma. Efforts are underway in countries such as Benin, Niger, and Burkina Faso to enhance menstrual health management, demonstrating a growing global awareness and commitment to tackling this overlooked aspect of poverty and inequality.

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In Bangladesh, more than a third of girls regularly miss school during their periods.