1 in 3 Menstruating Americans Lack Access to Period Products: Bodyform's Fight Against Period Poverty

Written By Bodyform

The inability to afford menstrual products results in debilitating health effects and perpetuates period poverty, defined as the limited or uncertain access to basic menstrual hygiene products due to financial constraints. This crisis not only compromises physical health but also undermines the dignity and well-being of those affected.

Over the past four years, menstrual pad prices have surged by  8.3%1, making feminine hygiene products more inaccessible than ever. This relentless increase has severely exacerbated period poverty, straining personal and household budgets.

To tackle the issue of rising menstrual pad prices, many women have turned to low-cost options instead of leading brands. A study by Procedia Manufacturing tested the absorption rate, maximum capacity, and moisture retention of these low-cost pads against leading brands2. The results showed that low-cost pads performed significantly worse, proving effective only for light flows. This solution is not viable and fails to meet the needs of most people, as most do not experience light flows - this is why Bodyform USA was created. 

As a woman-owned and minority-owned company, we are committed to actively fighting period poverty by offering high-quality menstrual products at affordable prices. Our brand focuses on inclusivity, ensuring that menstruating individuals feel comfortable and confident. Our premium products are meticulously designed with four carefully curated layers, providing maximum comfort, absorption, and moisture retention. By prioritizing quality and affordability, we strive to significantly impact the lives of those affected by period poverty, ensuring that high-quality menstrual care is accessible to all.

Our pads feature a cushion-soft top cover that gently pulls menstrual fluid away from the skin into the ultra-absorbent core with super-absorbent gels, ensuring rapid absorption. The back sheet barrier effectively distributes moisture within the core, keeping the surface dry and comfortable, even on heavy flow days. Finally, the release paper and wrapper ensure the product stays fresh every time.

This advanced technology is incorporated into all of our products, including pantiliners, maxi pads, and overnight period pants. We are committed to size inclusivity, offering our maxi-pads in four sizes and our pantiliners and period pants in two sizes each, ensuring a comfortable fit for everyone.

By addressing the critical issue of period poverty, Bodyform USA is not just offering a product but a promise of dignity and comfort for all who menstruate. We understand the profound impact of access to high-quality menstrual products on a person's health and well-being. Our commitment to affordability and inclusivity ensures that no one trades off on quality due to financial constraints. Together, we can make a significant difference, providing reliable menstrual care to everyone, everywhere. Join us in our mission to eradicate period poverty and empower individuals to live without interruption.

References

1. Krumperman, Katie. “Period Poverty in the United States - Ballard Brief.” Ballard Brief, 10 February 2023, https://ballardbrief.byu.edu/issue-briefs/period-poverty-in-the-united-states. Accessed 9 July 2024.

2. Mpumelelo Nhlapo and Abstract Feminine hygiene products are becoming increasingly expensive due to a shifting focus (2019) Investigating the development of low-cost sanitary pads, Procedia Manufacturing. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2351978919307206 (Accessed: 09 July 2024).  

“Period Poverty and Stigma.” Period.org, https://period.org/periodpoverty. Accessed 9 July 2024.