In some countries, access to menstrual products remains a challenge for women despite tax breaks. Approximately half of the EU population menstruates or will do so at some point in their lives, but many face barriers in obtaining menstrual products. Belgian NGO Bruzelle estimates that one in fifteen people in Belgium cannot afford their choice of menstrual products, leading to situations where individuals must choose between buying these products or other basic necessities like food. The lack of menstrual information and safe, well-equipped places to change further exacerbate the issue of menstrual insecurity. While the EU allows member states to sell menstrual products without VAT since 2022, only Ireland has taken advantage of this opportunity. Most EU countries have reduced taxes on menstrual products by 5 to 10%, but some, like Hungary, Sweden, and Denmark, still have high taxes up to 27% or 25%.
To address the financial burden of menstrual products, some regions have implemented initiatives such as providing reusable menstrual products. Catalonia in Spain, for example, has started distributing menstrual cups, pads, and period underwear to combat menstrual poverty. The Minister of Equality and Feminism of the Government of Catalonia, Tània Verge, emphasizes the importance of breaking the taboos and stigma surrounding menstruation in society. By making menstrual products more accessible, governments hope to improve women’s health and well-being by normalizing conversations around menstruation. According to the Catalan government, 23% of women in the region are reusing single-use products, and 44% cannot afford their preferred choice of menstrual products.
The lack of access to menstrual products is a widespread issue that affects women across the EU. Some countries have made efforts to reduce the financial burden through tax breaks and initiatives like providing reusable menstrual products. However, significant disparities still exist, with high taxes on menstrual products in countries like Hungary, Sweden, and Denmark. The consequences of menstrual poverty extend beyond financial concerns, impacting women’s overall well-being and health. Without access to menstrual products, women are forced to choose between meeting their basic needs and managing their menstrual cycles.
Menstrual poverty is a complex issue that is exacerbated by the lack of menstrual information and safe spaces for women to change. In addition to financial barriers, societal taboos and stigmas surrounding menstruation further contribute to the challenges faced by women in accessing menstrual products. Initiatives like distributing free menstrual products in Catalonia aim to address these barriers and promote inclusivity and empowerment for women. By normalizing conversations around menstruation and providing practical solutions to menstrual poverty, governments can improve the well-being and quality of life of women across the EU.
Efforts to address menstrual poverty require a multi-faceted approach that includes reducing taxes on menstrual products, providing free or subsidized options, and promoting education and awareness around menstruation. By recognizing menstruation as a natural and essential aspect of women’s health, governments can work towards ensuring that all women have access to the products and information they need to manage their menstrual cycles. Through collaboration between governments, NGOs, and advocacy groups, progress can be made in reducing menstrual poverty and improving the overall well-being of women in the EU. Redistributions towards a more equal and inclusive society where women can freely and comfortably manage their menstrual cycles.
