In British Columbia, many people face financial challenges when it comes to affording essential menstrual care products. This problem is worsened by rising inflation and the increasing costs of period products. It’s essential that we work towards creating a sustainable and fair society, and one vital aspect of achieving this is enhancing access to menstrual care for individuals experiencing monthly periods.
Inflation has impacted the prices of numerous products we use in our daily lives, including groceries and personal care items. Among these essential goods, menstrual products have seen significant price hikes. Even generic brands have become more expensive, often offering less value for the money. Many people, concerned about harmful ingredients, opt for well-known brands, which adds to the financial burden of purchasing period products.
Regrettably, people aren’t just dealing with financial difficulties when shopping for period products; they also face potential health risks due to harmful ingredients found in some pads and tampons. These harmful substances include Phthalates, Parabens, Dioxin, and more. Even trusted brands have had to recall some of their products due to health concerns. Furthermore, certain period products contain PFA’s, also known as “forever chemicals,” which are challenging to break down and contribute to environmental pollution.
Individuals deserve better than struggling to access and afford safe period products. Every person experiencing menstruation relies on dependable menstrual care, and the high prices associated with these products force many to place them at the bottom of their list of priorities. This situation is worrisome and poses risks to people’s well-being. It’s crucial that we come together to ensure that the needs of everyone, regardless of their location, are met, and that all individuals have equal access to essential period products. We must work collectively to address period poverty and ensure that menstrual care is accessible to all.