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Addressing Period Stigma 

By: Madeline Riske // February 2025

In an age of rapid information sharing and growing openness about our bodies, does period stigma still hinder menstruators from accessing products and having crucial conversations about their health? We created an anonymous survey to find out. Half of our respondents had an undergraduate education or higher, 24% were in high school, and 18% in middle school. A majority of responders came from urban areas, with 24% in more rural areas. 

Period stigma is defined as the feeling of shame and hesitation to discuss periods. According to Kotex, “too often, when we do dare to have conversations about menstruation, they center on disgust, discomfort or inconvenience. These perceptions can lead people to wrongly believe that periods are somehow abnormal or problematic, rather than a mark of health and wellness.” This sentiment is reflected in our survey’s responses; respondents report that having a period makes them feel ‘less than.’ “When I was menstruating, it was communicated at that time that there were things you either couldn’t or shouldn’t do,” such as sports or social events. Another respondent stated, “when I was younger, I was self-conscious about [my period] and would hate having it during school. I would hide products so that boys wouldn’t see them, and I would be scared to open packaging in the bathroom.” As they grew older, many respondents reported feeling more comfortable discussing menstruation and using period supplies. However, period stigma continues to significantly affect younger menstruators, often making them feel ashamed to talk about natural bodily functions and fearful to ask for the products they need.

Looking at our survey’s chart depicting the comfort levels menstruators feel when discussing their periods, a majority of respondents feel fairly comfortable talking about their periods. The reality is that many menstruators have no choice but to talk about their periods when they significantly impact their daily lives. One respondent said, “I have always had really heavy and painful periods and by the time I turned 15 I needed to see a doctor about it, so it wasn’t really an option for me not to talk to anyone because I had to have my mom schedule the appointment and take me to the OBGYN.” Yet, despite this necessity, there is still a hesitancy to discuss periods with certain people:

About 80% of those surveyed feel comfortable talking to family and friends about their period, but only 42% feel comfortable talking with peers or classmates, compared with the 18% who feel comfortable discussing their period with a teacher. As one respondent explained, “I am comfortable talking about my period but I am aware that others may be uncomfortable so that is the only thing that stops me from being as open. If I see that others are as comfortable as I am, I am an open book about anything and everything.” This pattern of a response from menstruators raises an essential question: if students are being forced to navigate this balance between personal comfort and social dynamics surrounding periods, is this stigma preventing people from getting access to the products at school that they need?

Half of surveyors stated that period stigma has in fact prevented them from getting access to products: “I never felt comfortable talking to other people when I needed products so I would just use whatever I could find until I could go home.” Period stigma can lead to avoidance and improvised solutions instead of requesting necessary supplies, despite the fact that menstruation is a completely normal and healthy bodily function. As one respondent put it, menstruators should not be embarrassed because “buying pads and tampons are no different from buying bandaids.” There is a definite sense of support and pride between menstruators, “I love knowing that I get my period regularly and it’s a sign that my body is performing the way it should. I buy period products regularly for myself and for others.” However, change can be made by how non-menstruators and influential figures—such as teachers—create a safe and supportive environment for students’ personal safety and hygiene.

If over half of those surveyed have felt judged because of their period, how can this issue be addressed? How can a natural bodily function become socially normalized? According to the survey, 73% of respondents believe periods should be discussed in classrooms, while 63% think incorporating conversations about menstruation into everyday life—through discussions, advocacy, and media like posters and blogs—could help break the stigma. Respondents emphasized the need to debunk harmful stereotypes and misconceptions, such as:

• That Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)  is not real or that it just makes girls crazy and emotional
• That it’s gross
• That your cycle is just the time of your actual period, when it lasts all month
• That they fully dictate your mood and control you

The issue of period stigma is best addressed by listening to those affected and understanding how institutions like governments and schools can support them in accessing both essential products and open discussions about menstrual health. Respondents suggested that schools can assist their menstruating students by “talking about [periods] as a normal human process and not as something that is gross or shameful” and “providing free period products in all bathrooms, not just women’s.” The overarching goal of breaking the stigma surrounding periods can be achieved by normalizing conversations about menstruation and addressing the needs of students. 

Love For Red’s mission is to ignite and sustain conversations about menstruation and personal health. Our survey reveals that while menstruators are open to discussing their bodies, they need supportive environments and people to uplift them in this natural process. We hope that our efforts to provide Iowa schools with period products also inspire these schools to foster open and informed discussions. Our goal is for the desire of menstruators to address period stigma to extend beyond this survey and be reflected in all the spaces they engage with.

Sources:

https://www.ubykotex.com/en-us/resources/period-stigma/what-is-period-stigma

Survey sent out by Love For Red

Day on the Hill 2025 

By Mihika Iyer // January 2025

On January 16th, 2025, Love For Red traveled to the Iowa State Capitol to advocate for better access to period products and better awareness of period poverty. A couple members who participated in the event shared their thoughts. Avishma Muthyapu, an Iowa City team member, stated that she felt the advocacy was successful, she mentions that the governor and many others stopped by the Love For Red table: “We also had a table in the Rotunda where we had members/supporters talk about Love For Red and why we are doing this.” She explains that the overall experience for her personally was educating and gave her the chance to clean her interpersonal skills. An advocate who attended, Zaira Ahmad, mentions Day on the Hill was an opportunity to talk to legislators about a grant proposal. The grant would “allow schools to access money for period products,” as she says. She also brings up the importance of the day: “It’s important to just speak on these topics to help educate people and create less of a stigma around them.” Not only did the members and student ambassadors of Love For Red participate in the event, but other advocates as well. Our ambassadors come from schools across Iowa—students who are passionate about advocating more about period poverty. Love For Red has and does press the issue of speaking out to our legislators. Grants and laws that can help end period poverty can be done because of advocates such as the participants on Day on the Hill speaking out to legislative groups. Overall, the Day on the Hill was fruitful—Love For Red and its members advocated for free period products and progressed in their mission to end period poverty across Iowa. 

Advocacy: A Key Strategy in Addressing Period Poverty 

By Madeline Riske // December 2024

At Love for Red, we use three strategies to address period poverty: service, awareness, and advocacy. This month, we want to focus on the importance of advocacy in our mission. Advocacy is defined as public support for a particular cause or policy. For our organization, this means advocating for the provision of free period products in schools.

One of the ways we work toward this goal is by participating in Day on the Hill, an event where we visit the Iowa State Capitol. The Iowa Legislature, located in the State Capitol, consists of the Iowa House of Representatives and the Iowa Senate. These two chambers hold the power to create, amend, and repeal laws that shape life in Iowa— including how the state addresses issues like period poverty.

At Day on the Hill, we meet with legislators to urge them to support bills that tackle period poverty and its impact on students in Iowa. We focus on raising awareness about this important issue at the state level and advocating for policy changes that ensure access to essential period products for all students.

You might be wondering, How can I, just one person, make a difference in advocating for this cause? The answer is simple: the more voices we have, the stronger and louder our message becomes. State representatives make decisions that directly affect the lives of their constituents (including you!) on a daily basis. It’s important to let them know when you support or oppose a piece of legislation.

For our cause, this could mean joining our booth at the Capitol or reaching out to your representative through email, phone, or a letter to express the importance of government support in addressing period poverty. Contacting your elected officials is an effective way to make your voice heard.

If you’re unsure how to contact your legislators, visit this website to find out more: How to Contact Iowa Legislators.

Lastly, mark your calendars! You can join the Love for Red team on Thursday, January 16, 2025, for a day dedicated to advocacy and raising awareness about period poverty. Register HERE!  to learn. 

Impact of Period Poverty on Students 

By Emma Gaughan and Mihika Iyer // November 2024

Impact of Period Poverty on Students 

Period poverty is an issue that impacts students all over the country. 1 in 4 students struggle to afford period products, according to the 2023 State of the Period study by Thinx, Inc., and PERIOD., and that number has not decreased since 2021. 

While we know that period poverty is a widespread issue that affects many students, for those who it does not affect, it can be hard to imagine. The State of the Period study found that 44% reported stress and embarrassment over lack of access to period products, and 25% are unable to complete schoolwork due to lack of access. That is several days a month, every month of the year, that a fourth of those who menstruate are unable to participate in school. 

We asked members from schools that Love For Red donates to about the impact that they have seen period poverty make on their schools, and how Love For Red has helped to alleviate that stress. 

Anisha is a student and member of Love For Red. She shared that Love For Red has made a definite impact on both herself and her school. 

“Love For Red made a huge impact on my school because girls no longer have to worry about not having access to period products,” Anisha said. 

She shared that it is common for her friends to ask her if she has a spare product, as well as overhearing that same conversation among strangers. She shared that the tampon and pad dispensers in the bathroom are almost always empty, so there is a definite need for the donations from Love For Red. 

“Period poverty is definitely an issue in my school,” Anisha said, “giving girls almost no access to products.” 

Anisha helps to refill the products that Love For Red donates once they run out, and she shared that she often sees students utilizing these donations. She also shared that she has friends who have had to miss events because of their period. 

Shreshta is another student and member of Love For Red. She shared that Love For Red has been a vital part of helping to fight period poverty at her school. 

“Love For Red makes it so much easier to access products at my school,” she said. 

While she shared that there has not been very much conversation or concern about period poverty at her school, she knows that Love For Red can have a major impact on students. 

“I do believe organizations like these are crucial to our community,” Shreshta said. 

While Love For Red has helped students at these schools to access products, there is still much work to be done, both in increasing access to products and decreasing stigma surrounding menstruation. According to the State of the Period, 75% of those surveyed say that there is a negative belief that periods are “gross” and “unsanitary.” Stigmas like this continue to impact students and their ability to learn. 

Get Ready to Vote on November 5! 

By Madeline Riske // October 2024

Get Ready to Vote on November 5! 

As we approach an important date this November—Election Day—it’s crucial to remember that voting is one of our most fundamental rights as American citizens. On November 5th, everyone over 18 has the opportunity to make their voices heard by voting for the candidates who align with their values. This year is especially significant as we participate in a presidential election. 

Here are some essential questions to consider as we gear up for Election Day: 

Am I registered to vote? Check here! 

What do I need to register? Find out what you need to bring! 

Where can I vote? Find your polling location! 

What do the candidates believe?  Research the issues on the ballot! 

To quote Martin Luther King Jr., “Voting is the foundation stone of political action.” Your vote is your own—make it count! Take the time to ensure you’re informed and ready to participate in shaping our democracy. 

Let’s make our voices heard this November! 

Period Action Day is October 12th… but what is that, and how can you get involved?

By Emma Gaughan // September 2024

Period Action Day is on the second Saturday of October every year, which falls on October 12th this year. Period Action Day is a day started by the organization PERIOD., which is a global non-profit fighting period poverty. Period Action Day is a global day of advocacy that aims to help stop period poverty.

Period Action Day was founded in 2019, and originally called National Period Day. PERIOD was founded in 2014 with a similar origin story to Love For Red. Since then, they have continued to grow and are now a global organization, fighting period poverty at the legislative level. 

PERIOD. releases a publication known as the State of the Period Study, which analyzes data about period poverty among students in the US. Their survey found 1 in 4 students (and 1 in 3 adults) struggled to afford period products. Additionally, their survey looked at the stigma around periods, and found that 45% of teenagers were affected by negative views of periods. 

These findings are part of the reason that organizations like PERIOD. and Love For Red exist, as well as why Period Action Day exists. It is a day meant not just to fight against period poverty, but also to reduce the stigma around menstruation. 

Organizations like PERIOD. and Love For Red have similar missions, and there are several ways to get involved. At Love For Red, you can get involved by volunteering at one of their period packing events, or participating in their Day on the Hill, where they advocate for legislative changes to promote access to menstrual hygiene products. 

Period poverty is an issue that harms the quality of life of those that experience it, and is a far too common experience. This Period Action Day, how will you spread awareness? 

Menstrual Hygiene: What is it, why is it important, and how can it be improved?

By Emma Gaughan // May 2024

May 28 was Menstrual Hygiene Day, a yearly day to spread awareness about the importance of having good menstrual hygiene, and steps that can be taken to help people all over the world have better menstrual hygiene. But what is menstrual hygiene, anyways? 

According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), there are several things needed for good menstrual hygiene. Safe menstrual products, privacy to change products, access to a safe and clean place to bathe and wash hands, and education on menstruation. Inability to access these things can lead to poor menstrual health, which greatly harms those who experience a period. 

Without access to safe facilities and products, there are several health concerns that may arise. Less serious concerns include rashes and irritation, but it can also lead to major complications, such as pelvic inflammatory disease and toxic shock syndrome, according to the National Institute of Health (NIH). These conditions can be fatal, but are preventable with proper education about menstrual health. That is what makes Menstrual Hygiene day so crucial— education about proper menstrual health can help prevent disease and death among those who menstruate. 

However, education alone will not prevent poor menstrual hygiene. Another large aspect of poor hygiene is lack of access to sanitary products and facilities. Period poverty is the inability to access period products due to financial burdens. A lack of access to period products creates a lack of access to good menstrual hygiene, and can create health issues for those it affects. Therefore, a important way to improve menstrual hygiene is to work to stop period poverty, which organizations like Love For Red are trying to do. 

Period Pain: Let’s Remove the Stigma

By Madeline Riske // April 2024

You’ve heard of walking in someone’s shoes but how about experiencing someone’s period cramps? CEO Lux Perry and cofounder of Some Days, a Canadian period pain relief company, has garnered millions of views on TikTok with their videos of people trying out their electric period pain simulator. The videos are intentionally comedic, with non-menstruating people doubling over in pain at the low levels of the simulator while menstruating people sit beside them, unbothered.  

While these clips are playful, Perry’s mission is extremely real. She hopes that her viral videos will help remove the stigma surrounding conversations about period pain. According to a study by the BMJ, about 80% of women report being less productive at work or school while on their periods. This means that students and workers around the globe are silently dealing with pain each month, and yet many spaces rarely discuss this issue. 

Lux’s videos ask us to consider how, for many menstruators, period pain is a regular, monthly occurrence caused by the uterus contracting to assist in shedding the uterine lining, and hormonelike substances cause uterine muscle contractions. This is a bodily function that no surgery can remove—and yet menstruators are unable to talk about it which can cause great impacts on the lives of menstruators. Endometriosis, a condition that Lux has herself, causes tissue like the uterus lining to grow outside the uterus, can cause debilitating pelvic pain that Lux says impacted her ability to attend school or her job.  

Still, Lux has a hopeful outlook on the public perception of period cramps. “I’m surprised by the compassion men display,” Lux says when asked how men react to their experiences with the period pain simulator. Men who experience this period pain “firsthand” through the simulator have their eyes opened to the reality of period pain, and I think the next step is encouraging non-menstruators to have this empathy with the menstruators in their lives, even without trying out a simulator. Lux’s videos are a good start to opening up the conversation about period pain, and I can only hope that by having more conversations about the impact of periods, we can create an empathetic environment in which we allow menstruators to listen to their bodies and provide them with the resources to do so. 

March Volunteer of the Month: Lauren Johnson

Lauren Johnson is 20 years old and a current sophomore at the University of Iowa. She is currently a Health Studies major with a minor in Italian. In the future, she hopes to be in the medical field and become a Pediatrician.

How and why did you get involved in Love For Red?

This is a funny story actually, but my roommate is Maanya Pandey who is the President/founder of Love For Red. And when we first met each other and got to know each other as roommates Freshman year she told me she started a non-profit and all about what Love For Red was and I absolutely loved it and supported it and I knew right then and there I had to be a part of it.

What are your hopes for the future working with Love For Red?

So I currently have the role as one of the digital media creators for our Instagram and Facebook accounts, so I hope for the future I can just continue to have fun making posts and spreading our message and awareness to the public and help gain followers/supporters!

What impact have you seen Love For Red make?

I have seen immense amounts of impact from Love For Red. A big part of why I wanted to be a part of Love For Red was because of the help we would give to people who need it. No one should have to suffer and struggle to have access to basic human needs like period products. And Love For Red has done just that. Big or small, we have been able to donate products to a variety of places like schools, shelters, medical businesses, etc. And the impact hasn’t just stopped with that. We have had an impact towards the public’s knowledge and awareness regarding the issue we have been trying to fix as well!

What has been your favorite part about being in Love For Red?

I think one of my favorite parts about being in Love For Red is the people I have been able to meet along the way. This organization has such nice and awesome people and I have been able to meet some of my good friends in this organization! I have also met some amazing people when we hold events to spread awareness or when we have gone to the Capitol to talk to legislators! And then of course my other favorite part is just being able to help people and make a difference in our society.

Finally, I just want to say YOU MATTER. PERIOD. ❤️

February Volunteer of the Month: Madeline Riske

Madeline Riske is a second-year University of Iowa student studying English & creative writing on the publishing track, with a minor in gender, women’s, and sexuality studies. Aside from working on the Love For Red writing team, she is also involved in several undergraduate literary magazines on campus. She founded Catharsis Lit Mag and is also involved in earthwords, an undergraduate literary journal. She is super involved in the English program and works as an Honors Writing Fellow. She plans to study abroad in Dublin this summer in the Irish Writing Program. When she is not reading, she can usually be found playing guitar or trying out local coffee shops.

How and why did you get involved in Love For Red?

It’s very serendipitous, actually, because I met Maanya during my first week ever on campus at Iowa. We met at Bingo Night! As I got to know her, I learned about Love For Red, and I thought the organization sounded so amazing. I was really involved in activism in high school—I helped found this club called “The Empowerment Club” with my friends to empower students to get involved in our community—and I was searching for a way to continue my activism journey in college. So, finding Love For Red was the perfect fit for me! I loved that this was a nonprofit started by young people. I know firsthand how adults have a tendency to underestimate the power of young people, especially young women, and their desire to address inequality, so I was inspired by the way that Love For Red was embracing the power and determination of people of all ages banding together to end period poverty. Love For Red’s mission is so important to me because I value my education more than anything. I want to make sure that every student has access to the basic necessity of period products so that they may pursue their education with the dignity and safety that they deserve.

As a member of the Writing Team on Love For Red, I help write our Newsletters (you should totally sign up if you haven’t already!). So, when you get those monthly emails in your inbox, it is usually me who sends them out! I love being on the Writing team because I think that writing has the unmatched potential to educate and inspire, so I am really happy to combine my two passions for writing and activism in this role.

What are your hopes for the future working with Love For Red?

My hope is that I can continue volunteering, advocating, and learning as a member of Love For Red. Love For Red has taught me that, if you truly work towards your goals, you can change people’s lives. I hope to continue embracing the small moments of talking to someone about period poverty stats a tabling event, making a period pack, or talking with a senator during Day on the Hill, because the small moments are actually what have the power to make a positive difference in the community and beyond.

What impact have you seen Love For Red make?

We just had our 2024 Day on the Hill event, and that made me reflect on how, almost a year ago, we were introducing ourselves to representatives and asking them to raise a bill that aligned with our advocacy goals. Now, Bill (HF2356) is being assigned to the Appropriation Committee, meaning it is funnel proof and will stay alive until the end of the legislative session. The bill supports making menstrual products monetarily and physically more accessible in schools by providing free access to feminine hygiene products in public school restrooms. This was such an accomplishment and it is so wonderful to know that our voices are being heard.

What has been your favorite part about being in Love For Red?

The people. The lit mag that I founded recently released its first issue, and when I posted about that exciting accomplishment, I swear half of my comments/reposts/and likes were Love For Red members! They are just that nice. Everyone is so supportive, kind, and driven, and I find myself being inspired just by working with them.