When we think about poverty, our minds typically focus on people struggling to secure food or shelter. Rarely do we consider another essential need that millions of Canadians face—menstrual hygiene products. The inability to access these products is known as period poverty, and it affects thousands of people. It causes discomfort, stigma, and exclusion. Although it might seem like a “women’s problem,” the truth is that men have a significant role to play in addressing period poverty.
Here’s how they can get involved in the fight against period poverty in Canada.
Break the Silence on Period Poverty in Canada
Let’s be honest: for many men, the word “period” can be uncomfortable. However, the first step in fighting period poverty is simple—start talking about it. One of the largest challenges in solving period poverty is the stigma surrounding menstruation.
Even though menstruation is a natural part of life, it’s often treated like something inappropriate or unmentionable. This silence only strengthens the stigma and causes women to feel ashamed or embarrassed. By speaking out, men can help normalize periods and create an environment where women feel comfortable discussing their needs. Start small.
Whether you’re a father, brother, partner, or friend, engage in conversations about periods. Be inquisitive, ask questions, and listen without judgment. Fathers, for example, should talk to their daughters about menstruation openly rather than leaving the discussion entirely to mothers. In the workplace, show support for policies that provide menstrual hygiene products in bathrooms.
Support Menstrual Health Education
Menstrual health education isn’t solely for girls and women—everyone, including men, should understand how menstruation works. When men understand the basics of menstrual health, they can better support women.
Advocate for thorough menstrual health education in schools, workplaces, and communities. Don’t let the conversation stop at “menstruation happens.” Go deeper into why menstruation matters, how it affects women physically and emotionally, and why access to menstrual products is a basic human right. Men in leadership roles—such as fathers, teachers, or managers—can make change by advocating for menstrual health education.
This education shouldn’t be restricted to classrooms only. Men can also contribute by volunteering or donating to organizations like The Period Purse or Plan International Canada. These groups provide menstrual education and hygiene products to neglected communities. By learning about periods and educating others, men can help clear misconceptions and become allies in the battle against period poverty.
Be a Menstrual Product Hero
It’s time for men to roll up their sleeves and get involved. Donating menstrual products is one of the most direct ways to make an impact. Pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and hygiene wipes are in high demand at food banks and shelters. Yet, they are frequently overlooked when people think of donating essentials.
But don’t stop at donating products alone—go further. Organize donation drives at your workplace, local gym, or community center. Turn your next office charity event into a “Period Product Drive” and encourage your colleagues to contribute. If you coach a sports team, get your players involved in a drive as well. Small actions like these can lead to meaningful change for women affected by period poverty in Canada each month.
Advocate for Policy Change
While donating is a powerful individual action, the fight against period poverty requires structural change. Men can stand alongside women in support of policies that guarantee free and accessible menstrual products in schools, workplaces, and public restrooms. For instance, British Columbia already provides free menstrual products in schools. However, much more needs to be done across Canada. Men can help move this conversation forward by advocating for similar policies by local governments and employers.
Men in positions of influence have a unique opportunity to lead these efforts. They can push for menstrual products to be as accessible as toilet paper in public spaces. The time to act is now. By advocating for workplace policies that guarantee menstrual products are available without stigma or shame, men can help create lasting change.
Normalize It Through Your Actions
Lastly, normalize menstruation through everyday actions. Men can help break the stigma by doing simple things, like picking up menstrual products at the store without feeling embarrassed or awkward. In fact, encouraging men to feel as comfortable buying pads and tampons as they do buying toothpaste can further help normalize the conversation around menstruation.
Support your partners, daughters, friends, and colleagues when they need products. Just listening when they talk about their period can also help normalize the conversation. These everyday gestures go a long way in reducing stigma.
Conclusion
Period poverty in Canada is more than just a women’s issue—it’s a challenge that affects the well-being of entire communities. Men have a chance to make a difference and change the way we talk about and deal with this issue. Tackling period poverty is a collective effort. When men and women stand together, we can create a society where dignity and equality are a reality for everyone.
Visit Help A Girl Out and support the fight against period poverty now!
