Expresses support for designating May as "National Menstrual Health Awareness Month" to normalize menstruation, improve education and access to care, and eliminate stigma.
Grace Meng
Representative
NY-6
This bill recognizes the impact of menstrual stigma on women, girls, and people who menstruate, and supports the designation of May as "National Menstrual Health Awareness Month." It emphasizes that menstrual health is a crucial aspect of overall health and human dignity, affecting access to education, work, and freedom from discrimination. The bill aims to normalize menstruation, improve education and care, and increase access to resources, thereby promoting gender equity and equality. It also seeks to address disparities in women's health research and promote better understanding and management of menstrual health conditions.
House Resolution Pushes for National Menstrual Health Awareness Month to Normalize Periods, Improve Education
This House Resolution officially recognizes the significant, often overlooked, impact of menstruation on daily life and calls for designating May as "National Menstrual Health Awareness Month." It's not creating new laws or programs itself, but it's putting the spotlight on menstrual health as a critical aspect of overall health, human dignity, and gender equity. The resolution acknowledges some stark realities: globally, 500 million people lack basic menstrual products and sanitation, and stigma often prevents individuals from fully participating in school, work, or community life.
Putting Periods on the Public Agenda
Why does this formal recognition matter? The resolution argues that treating menstrual health seriously is essential for equality. It highlights how cultural taboos and a lack of resources contribute to real-world problems – from girls missing school due to inadequate facilities to delayed diagnoses for conditions like endometriosis and fibroids because women's health remains under-researched and discussed. The text points out that negative stigmas start early, affecting girls from puberty onwards, and the stress of managing menstruation without proper support is a significant burden. By acknowledging these issues at a national level, the resolution aims to shift the conversation.
Beyond the Calendar: Goals for Change
Supporting a dedicated awareness month comes with specific goals outlined in the resolution. The aim is to (A) normalize menstruation and kick stigma to the curb, (B) boost education for young people about menstrual health's connection to overall well-being, (C) encourage better standards for menstrual health education and care, and (D) improve access to information and treatment for related health conditions. Essentially, it's about fostering an environment where periods aren't a barrier – ensuring access to products and facilities in schools and workplaces, promoting health equity by tackling stigma, and driving more research and education. While this resolution expresses support rather than mandating action, it lays the groundwork for treating menstrual health as the fundamental issue it is.