Imagine for a moment: a a woman spends an average of €8,000 on hygiene products in her lifetime. Yes, you read that right, €8,000! It's a significant cost that weighs heavily on the budgets of many women.
The reimbursement of hygiene products is therefore a matter of paramount importance, both for gender equality only for the public health. The menstrual precariousness is a topic that deserves our full attention. In France, measures have been put in place to help young women and women who have financial difficulties in accessing the hygienic protectors. We'll tell you more. 👇🏻
Summary
Why does the reimbursement of hygiene products concern us all?
The cost of hygienic protections accumulates over the years. With an average of 5 to 15 € per month, a woman can spend up to €150 per year on these essential hygiene productsOver a lifetime, this represents a considerable amount, approaching €8,000.
For many, especially for students and young women with low incomes, this cost is a real burden. Every month, for those with smaller budgets, the same question arises: buy hygiene products or meet other essential needs such as food or housing. And the biggest problem is that the rules, the concerns and expenses that come with them return every month.
You will tell me that it doesn't look at the women, but this situation worsens inequalities already existing and encourages many women in the menstrual precariousness.
The menstrual precariousness, it is the inability to access some hygienic protections in sufficient quantity and of good quality.
Whatever it takes to face her menstruation, a woman needs protections. When she can't get one, she improvises. No one can fully focus on a class while also worrying about the strength of the temporary menstrual solution. Nor sleep soundly while having fear of a leak who would come to ruin their sheets. Nor even go to work peacefully.
Ultimately, the menstrual precariousness has dramatic consequences:
- repeated school absences
- absence from work
- social isolation
- infections due to the use of unsuitable protection
- etc
In summary, the reimbursement for menstrual products is a matter of dignity and public health.
Refund initiatives around the world
Around the world, several countries have taken measures to make the more accessible hygiene products, highlighting the importance of this topic on a global scale.
- Scotland Scotland was the first country to offer free sanitary products to all women. A pioneering initiative that has brought to light the subject of the menstrual precariousness and paved the way for other countries.
- New Zealand : In New Zealand, some free sanitary products are provided in schools. A measure to ensure that young girls do not miss school because of their rules.
The results of these initiatives of reimbursement or free provision of hygiene products are very positive:
- best school attendance
- reduction of infections
- improvement of overall well-being
However, very few countries make the leap, and in some developing countries, the menstrual precariousness is even more serious.
These international initiatives show that the reimbursement and free access to hygiene products have beneficial effects on society as a whole. Drawing inspiration from these examples, France has implemented measures aimed at better care for the menstrual precariousness.
How to fight against menstrual poverty in France
The menstrual precariousness touch many women . In France, we talk about nearly 4 million women victims of menstrual precariousness in 2023 (source). In early 2021, a survey published by FAGE, ANESF, and AFEP revealed that 33% of female students needed help for get menstrual protection (source).
Oneable to purchase hygienic protections can have serious consequences on the health, the psyche, the schooling, the work and the daily life, as we have seen previously. To combat this problem, the French government has implemented several measures:
-
Reduction of VAT on the disposable hygiene products at 5.5 %.
As a reminder, consumer products have a VAT of 20%, unlike essential goods which have a VAT of 5.5%. - 100% Refund on the reusable hygiene protections for those under 26 benefiting from the Complementary Health Solidarity (C2S) in pharmacies.
- 60% refund on the reusable hygiene protections in pharmacies for those under 26 years old outside of C2S.
- More than 30 million protections distributed for free in 2023 through social and solidarity grocery stores, of student grocery stores and some shelter centersThis action alone represents 5.4 million euros in 2024. (source)
These measures help to reduce the cost of hygienic protections and to help those who need it the most, regardless of their age. But these are not the only actions taken. In addition to government assistance, associations help to fighting against period poverty.
Associations such as Basic Rules actively campaigning for a free access or a reimbursement of hygiene productsTheir work is essential for raising awareness among the public and policymakers about this cause. Furthermore, since 2017, the state has been contributing to the funding of this association to allow them a greater scope of action.
Thus, government measures and associative initiatives are fighting against the menstrual precariousness in France. But what about the types of reimbursed sanitary products Are they all refundable?
The benefits of a universal reimbursement for hygiene products
The reimbursement of hygiene products in France offers numerous benefits for women, for a more equal society:
1. Gender Equality
The reimbursement of hygiene products would contribute to reducing gender inequalities. Women should not be financially penalized for a function natural organic.
Just like some brands of condoms are reimbursed at the pharmacy since 2018, it has become imperative to implement measures for refund for menstrual products.
2. Public health
A better accessibility to hygiene products reduces the risk of infections and other complications.
Furthermore, with these measures, the State is committed to the quality and non-toxicity of hygiene products. This has a direct impact on public health in general.
3. Well-being and inclusion
Un general refund would improve the women's well-being and would promote greater social inclusion (school, work, sports, family). It is a issue of dignity and social justice.
The reimbursement of hygiene products represents a much greater challenge than the simple menstrual precariousness. It is a social issue that we all need to take hold of to a fairer and more equal world.
What types of hygiene products are reimbursed?
In France, different which types of sanitary products are reimbursed only in pharmacies or provided for free in community spaces.
Disposable hygiene products
The disposable hygiene products, such as the tampons and disposable pads, are not not refunded by social security. However, many associations are making it free distribution among women and young women in need.
It should be noted, however, that it can be difficult to join these associations as the waiting lists are long.
Reusable sanitary towels
The reusable sanitary pads offer a an ecological and economical alternative to disposable towelsThey are applied over your underwear like a disposable sanitary pad.
They are not not suitable for physical activities, but offer a sustainable solution. They are 100% reimbursed at pharmacies for young girls under 26 years old benefiting from the C2S.All brands can be refunded as long as they meet the non-toxicity criteria.
Menstrual panties
More comfortable than the reusable sanitary pads, the menstrual panties are becoming increasingly popular. In addition, there are models designed specifically for sports to adapt to all needs of women and young women.
They offer a sustainable solution and adapt perfectly to the lifestyle of every woman. The menstrual panties are reimbursed at 100% in pharmacies for young girls from under 26 years old benefiting from the C2SAll brands meeting the non-toxicity criteria can be refunded.
Menstrual cups
One sustainable option which can last several years. However, the menstrual cups require a little adjustment time to learn how to place and remove it easily.
Just like the panties and menstrual pads, the cuts are part of a sustainable menstrual solutione. As a result, if they meet strict quality standards, ensuring their non-toxicity for health and the environment, they can be refunded for young girls under 26 years old benefiting from the C2S.
The state has already implemented numerous actions to offer or refund hygiene products to women. It offers many solutions for young women in terms of durable protection, but what about when they want to swim?
The menstrual cup can indeed be used, but it may cause some discomfort during exercise for some women. The period swimwear is a healthy and sustainable alternative, however, they are not yet integrated into the government refund policies.
In France, initiatives for make hygiene products free or reimbursed show a real willingness to fighting against period poverty. Whether it's through the refund of reusable hygiene products or the distribution free disposable hygiene products, every gesture counts to improve the lives of thousands of women. Remember, there are solutions so that everyone can live your period with dignity.
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