From Period Poverty to Economic Power

From Period Poverty to Economic Power: Why Menstrual Equity MattersJess Sato introduces period poverty through the experience of a student lacking menstrual supplies and explains that it is not only a hygiene concern but also an education, public health, gender equity, and economic issue. She notes that an estimated 500 million women and girls globally lack adequate menstrual products, sanitation facilities, and menstrual health education, and that in the U.S. about 16.9 million people who menstruate live in poverty and may struggle to afford period products, leading to missed school or work and unhealthy coping strategies. As part of the global Podcasthon initiative, the episode highlights Days for Girls, which partners with communities in more than 140 countries to expand access to menstrual supplies, increase menstrual health education, and support women-led enterprises that produce reusable menstrual kits locally, reducing cost barriers while creating income and sustainable, stigma-reducing solutions.00:00 Welcome and Setup02:27 What Period Poverty Is04:43 How Big the Problem Is07:12 Why It Hurts Economies09:18 From Charity to Agency09:58 Days for Girls Model12:44 Personal Involvement13:54 Empowering Local Women15:27 Call to Action and WrapImportant LinksDays for Girls | Days for Girls InstagramUNICEF Menstrual HealthBrookings Period Poverty in the U.S.Period.org researchPodcasthon Previous Episodes or BlogsThe Power of Days: Keys Learnings on Resilience, Dignity, and Gender EquityPeriod Poverty and Menstrual Equity - A Call To ActionIf you need additional support and a thought partner to navigate big business and leadership transitions, let's talk. Simply schedule a free session by clicking here.Connect with Jess:www.jessicasato.com for all the free resources!Instagram: www.instagram.com/jessicasatocoachLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/jess-sato