Addressing Period Poverty: A New App Making a Difference

By: Jenna Lee
Updated: Sep. 8, 2021
Originally Published: Sep. 7, 2021

Have you ever found yourself out and about, only to realize your period has started, and you have no menstrual products with you? It can be a stressful situation, scrambling to find makeshift solutions like paper towels or toilet paper. But what if you faced this predicament regularly due to financial constraints, leaving you to navigate your daily life in constant worry?

Many individuals who menstruate miss work and school because they cannot afford essential period products. A national survey revealed that 1 in 5 menstruating teens struggle to afford these products, and a staggering 4 in 5 have missed school for the same reason. With schools providing fewer resources during the pandemic, the situation has only worsened.

Understanding Period Poverty

Period poverty refers to inadequate access to menstrual hygiene products, education, and facilities. This issue is not limited to developing nations; it also affects individuals across the U.S. According to a 2019 study, nearly 20% of girls have missed school due to a lack of period products. Unfortunately, menstrual items are often excluded from government assistance programs, making them a financial burden for many.

Introducing a Solution: The Always You App

In response to this pressing issue, the Always You app was created through a collaboration between Always and Thrive Global. The app not only allows users to track their menstrual cycles but also enables them to contribute to donations for period products through partners like Feeding America.

By engaging with the app, users can access wellness content and Microsteps designed to promote self-care while helping others. Arianna Huffington, CEO of Thrive Global, emphasizes that these small, science-backed changes can lead to significant improvements in well-being.

Empower Yourself and Others

You can support the cause by downloading the Always You app from the Apple or Google Play stores. By participating, you contribute to the fight against period poverty while taking steps to improve your own health. For more insights on home insemination and pregnancy, check out this article or learn more about artificial insemination, a valuable resource for those considering their options.

For further information about at-home insemination kits, visit Make a Mom, who are authorities on this subject.