The Cost of Bleeding

THE COST OF

BLEEDING

The Cost of Bleeding A zine dedicated to exploring the often-overlooked expenses of menstruation and the pressing issue of period poverty.

It's crucial to shine a light on the emotional, physical, and financial costs that menstruators face each month. From the price of menstrual products to the toll on mental health, this zine aims to unpack the hidden burdens of bleeding .

Distribute this zine, use this zine, do what you want with this zine. Its yours.

With Love from the Community Unity Network 4 Transformation & Solidarity cunts4change.org

Stigma and Silence The Emotional Cost of Menstruation From adolescence onwards, individuals navigating

menstruation often find

themselves grappling with

societal taboos and cultural

myths. The hushed tones and

Battling Perceived Imperfections

discreet packaging surrounding

The hormonal fluctuations accompanying

be concealed, fostering feelings

menstruation can trigger changes in one's

of shame and embarrassment.

menstrual products only serve to reinforce the idea that menstruation is something to

physical appearance,.

This stigma extends beyond

Bloating, acne outbreaks, and weight

mere discomfort; it breeds a

fluctuations are common occurrences that may put individuals into a cycle of selfcriticism.

Societal beauty standards further compound these feelings, promoting an unattainable image of perfection that becomes increasingly elusive during menstruation. The pressure to conform to these ideals heightens feelings of

sense of inadequacy and impairs one's self-esteem. The societal message that menstruation is unsanitary or unclean leaves many individuals feeling alienated from their own bodies, fostering negative perceptions of their worth.

inadequacy and erodes self-confidence, impacting both mental health and interpersonal relationships.

Relationships & Communication The hormonal fluctuations accompanying menstruation can trigger changes in one's physical appearance,. Bloating, acne outbreaks, and weight fluctuations are common occurrences that may put individuals into a cycle of self-criticism.

Societal beauty standards further compound these feelings, promoting an unattainable image of perfection that becomes increasingly elusive during menstruation. The pressure to conform to these ideals heightens feelings of inadequacy and erodes self-confidence, impacting both mental health and interpersonal relationships.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to a combination of physical and emotional symptoms that many individuals experience in the days or weeks leading up to their menstrual period. These symptoms typically subside once menstruation begins. PMS is quite common, affecting a significant portion of menstruating individuals, although the severity and specific symptoms can vary widely from person to person.

The symptoms of PMS can include: 1. Mood swings: Feelings of irritability, moodiness, or sadness.

2. Tension or anxiety: Heightened feelings of stress, nervousness, or anxiety.

3. Fatigue: Increased tiredness or low energy levels.

4. Changes in appetite: Cravings for certain foods, overeating, or loss of appetite.

5. Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing unusual dreams.

6.Physical symptoms: Bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, joint or muscle pain, and acne.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) characterized by intense mood and physical symptoms that significantly interfere with daily life. PMDD affects a smaller percentage of menstruating individuals compared to PMS, but its symptoms are much more severe and can have a profound impact on mental health and functioning.

The symptoms of PMDD are similar to those of PMS but are much more intense and debilitating. They typically occur during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle (the two weeks before menstruation) and improve once menstruation begins.

Some common symptoms of PMDD include: 1. Severe mood swings: Extreme mood changes such as sadness, irritability, anger, or anxiety that interfere with relationships and daily activities.

2. Depression or feelings of hopelessness: Intense feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or hopelessness that may lead to difficulty functioning.

3. Severe anxiety or tension: Overwhelming feelings of anxiety, nervousness, or tension that may be accompanied by panic attacks.

4. Irritability or anger: Intense feelings of irritability, anger, or conflict with others.

5. Physical symptoms: Severe physical symptoms such as bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, joint or muscle pain, and fatigue.

Cramps hael s c a d on HeaHorcmtuationswith

Many individuals experience

Fat igu e

to iron deficiency

Anemia

anemia in some individuals, especially if they have underlying

conditions such as fibroids or

Period Pains

cups, or other menstrual products can sometimes cause discomfort or irritation, particularly if not used correctly or if

Man nal an individual has mo y r o i ndiv s H Anemia can cause sensitivities or e g idua han g exp ls c symptoms such as allergies to certain erie in nce n dur fatigue, weakness, bloa materials. o i t ting a tru dur and dizziness. me ing Hormonal changes mens ffect nstr a uat whi ion, can on for ch i during the i s of cau est ten sed dig e menstrual cycle b o y s m ls, wat rete er ua ntio can cause breast vid n an ndi ng to hor i d mon tissue to swell and di al lea toms cha nge p become tender or s.

Blo s sym atin ha sore.

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Bloa ting

Breast Tenderness

Period Product Discomfort

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ve i t s e Dig ues iss

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects individuals of reproductive age, particularly women. PCOS is characterized by a combination of symptoms related to hormonal imbalances and ovarian dysfunction.

While the exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

The key features & symptoms of PCOS include: Irregular Menstrual Cycles: PCOS often causes irregular menstrual cycles, which may involve infrequent periods, prolonged periods, or unpredictable bleeding. Some individuals with PCOS may also experience amenorrhea, which is the absence of menstruation for several months.

Hyperandrogenism: PCOS is associated with elevated levels of androgens, which are often referred to as male hormones. This can lead to symptoms such as hirsutism (excess hair growth on the face, chest, abdomen, or back), acne, and male-pattern baldness or thinning of hair.

Polycystic Ovaries: Many individuals with PCOS have ovaries that contain numerous small cysts, which are follicles that have not matured properly. Despite the name, not all individuals with PCOS have cysts, and not all ovarian cysts indicate PCOS. Weight Gain: PCOS is often associated with weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, which can exacerbate hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance.

Insulin Resistance: Many individuals with PCOS have insulin resistance, which means their cells are less responsive to insulin, leading to elevated insulin levels in the blood.

Insulin resistance is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Fertility Issues: PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility in women due to irregular ovulation or lack of ovulation. Some individuals with PCOS may also experience difficulty conceiving or recurrent miscarriages.

Metabolic Syndrome: PCOS is associated with an increased risk of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, abnormal cholesterol levels, and excess abdominal fat, which collectively increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

Diagnosis of PCOS typically involves a combination of physical exams, medical history assessment, blood tests to measure hormone levels, and imaging tests such as pelvic ultrasound to evaluate the ovaries. Treatment for PCOS focuses on managing symptoms and may include lifestyle modifications (such as diet and exercise), medications to regulate menstrual cycles, hormonal therapy, and fertility treatments for those trying to conceive. Management of PCOS also often involves addressing associated conditions such as insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome to reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Endometriosis Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, typically on other pelvic organs such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the outer surface of the uterus. In some cases, endometrial tissue can also grow on other organs in the abdominal cavity, such as the bladder or intestines. This misplaced endometrial tissue behaves similarly to the tissue inside the uterus: it thickens, breaks down, and bleeds with each menstrual cycle.

Key characteristics of endometriosis include: Pain: Endometriosis is often associated with pelvic pain, which may range from mild to severe. The pain can occur before and during menstruation, during intercourse (dyspareunia), during bowel movements or urination, and can be chronic or cyclical in nature.

Menstrual Irregularities: Some individuals with endometriosis may experience irregular menstrual cycles, heavy menstrual bleeding, or spotting between periods.

Infertility: Endometriosis is a common cause of infertility in women. The exact mechanisms by which endometriosis affects fertility are not fully understood, but factors such as inflammation, scarring, and adhesions (abnormal tissue connections) can interfere with ovulation, fertilization, and implantation of the embryo.

Other Symptoms: Endometriosis can also cause other symptoms such as fatigue, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and nausea, particularly during menstruation.

The exact cause of endometriosis is not fully understood, but several theories have been proposed, including retrograde menstruation (where menstrual blood flows backward into the pelvic cavity instead of exiting the body), immune system disorders, hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, and environmental influences.

Diagnosis of endometriosis typically involves a combination of medical history assessment, pelvic examination, imaging tests (such as ultrasound or MRI), and sometimes laparoscopic surgery to visualize and biopsy the endometrial tissue for confirmation.

Treatment for endometriosis focuses on managing symptoms and may include medications to relieve pain and inflammation, hormonal therapies to suppress menstruation and reduce endometrial growth, and surgery to remove endometrial implants, scar tissue, or cysts. In cases where infertility is a concern, fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be recommended. It's important for individuals experiencing symptoms of endometriosis to seek medical evaluation and treatment from healthcare professionals experienced in managing the condition.

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition caused by certain strains of bacteria, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria and, less frequently, Streptococcus bacteria. While TSS can occur in both men and women, it has been associated with menstruation, particularly in cases where individuals use high-absorbency tampons, menstrual cups, or other menstrual products.

In the context of menstruation, TSS can occur when menstrual products are left in place for an extended period, allowing bacteria to proliferate and release toxins.

These toxins can enter the bloodstream and lead to a severe and rapid onset of symptoms. However, it's important to note that TSS can also occur in nonmenstruating individuals, such as those with skin wounds or infections.

Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome can include: 1. High fever 2. Sudden onset of flu-like symptoms such as headache, muscle aches, and fatigue 3. Vomiting or diarrhea 4. Rash resembling sunburn, particularly on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet 5. Low blood pressure 6. Seizures or confusion If left untreated, TSS can progress rapidly and lead to severe complications, including organ failure and even death. Therefore, prompt medical attention is crucial if TSS is suspected.

Preventive measures to reduce the risk of TSS associated with menstruation include: 1. Using menstrual products with the lowest absorbency necessary to manage menstrual flow.

2. Changing tampons, menstrual cups, or pads frequently, typically every 4 to 8 hours, even if they are not full.

3. Alternating between tampons and pads throughout the menstrual period.

4. Avoiding leaving tampons or menstrual cups in place overnight, if possible.

5. Practicing good hygiene, including washing hands before and after inserting or removing menstrual products.

It's essential for individuals who experience symptoms of TSS, especially during or shortly after menstruation, to seek immediate medical attention. TSS is a medical emergency and requires prompt treatment with antibiotics and supportive care to prevent complications.

Disposable period product cost (USD) annually

Average Annual Salary

Algeria

$414.00

$5,040

Jordan

$318.12

$11,400

South Korea

$304.00

$35,301

Barbados

$254.16

$18,500

Italy

$237.36

$29,431

Cuba

$217.32

$1,248

Japan

$195.60

$41,838

Ghana

$170.16

$5,400

Phillipines

$168.24

$3,960

China

$143.28

$54,422

Germany

$138.48

$47,836

Ireland

$133.92

$49,474

Mexico

$106.08

$10,696

United States of America

$104.40

$56,316

France

$102.36

$45,290

Kenya

$51.96

$7,608

United Kingdom

$43.32

$50,209

Vietnam

$39.12

$3,600

Country

Rimberio

India

$34.92 Companies' confidential files.

Different from distribution

reallygreatsite.com

The data is correct as of May 2023.

Source: https://plushcare.com/blog/cost-of-your-period/

$3,960 hello@reallygreatsite.com

Tampons and pads are necessities, yet 21 states still tax them as luxuries.

Since the tampon tax only applies to people who menstruate, it’s not just unfair, it's sex-based discrimination and therefore unconstitutional and illegal.

Since launching this national effort, 32 states have introduced measures to eliminate the tax, and 13 have seen success.

Learn more about the campaign: https://www.taxfreeperiod.com/campaign

Period Poverty Period poverty, a global issue affecting millions of individuals, occurs when people cannot access or afford adequate menstrual hygiene resources, including products, facilities, and education.

Causes

Effects

Socioeconomic Inequality: Economic disparities can prevent individuals from purchasing menstrual products regularly, particularly in low-

Health Risks: Limited access to menstrual products and hygiene facilities can lead to health risks such as infections, reproductive

marginalized

tract infections (RTIs), urinary tract infections (UTIs), and even toxic shock syndrome (TSS).

Lack of Access to Healthcare: Limited access to reproductive healthcare services can hinder individuals from addressing underlying

Education Disruption: Missing school due to menstruation can impact academic performance, leading to absenteeism, lower

menstrual health issues, including menstrual disorders, infections, and reproductive health complications.

educational attainment, and reduced future

Stigma and Shame: Cultural taboos and societal

Economic Consequences: Lost income and productivity due to menstruation-related issues can perpetuate cycles of poverty and economic instability, hindering individuals' ability to thrive economically and contribute to their communities.

income households communities.

or

stigma surrounding menstruation can perpetuate silence, shame, and secrecy, making it difficult for individuals to seek support or access resources.

Policy Gaps: Inadequate policies and lack of government support can exacerbate inequalities in access to menstrual hygiene resources, particularly in regions with limited infrastructure or resources.

opportunities for individuals, particularly girls and young women.

Mental Health Effects: Stigma, shame, and embarrassment surrounding menstruation can contribute to psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, impacting individuals' overall well-being.

Solutions Subsidized or Free Menstrual Products: Governments, NGOs, and community organizations can implement initiatives to provide subsidized or free menstrual products, including pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and period underwear, to individuals in need.

Comprehensive Healthcare Services: Ensuring access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare services, including menstrual health education, screenings, and treatments, can empower individuals to manage menstruation safely and healthily.

Education and Awareness: Promoting menstrual education and destigmatizing conversations about menstruation through school-based programs, community workshops, and media campaigns can challenge cultural taboos and empower individuals to advocate for their menstrual health rights.

Policy Reform: Implementing policies to address period poverty, including menstrual product tax exemptions, workplace accommodations, and school hygiene facilities, can promote menstrual equity and social justice at local, national, and global levels.

n o ti a u tr s n e M & n o ti a c u d E Access to education should be a fundamental right for all, yet period poverty stands as a significant barrier to achieving this goal. When individuals cannot afford menstrual products, their ability to attend school regularly and fully participate in educational activities is compromised.

Imagine being forced to miss school because you lack access to pads or tampons. For many students experiencing period poverty, this scenario is all too real. The shame and embarrassment of not being able to manage their period can lead to absenteeism, negatively impacting their academic performance and future opportunities.

Furthermore, the long-term consequences of missed education can be profound. Students who miss school due to period poverty may fall behind in their studies, struggle to catch up, or even drop out altogether. This perpetuates a cycle of poverty and inequality, limiting their potential for success later in life.

It's time to recognize period poverty as not just a financial issue, but an educational one as well.

ADVOCACY Period Law https://www.periodlaw.org/ Period Law aims to end the discriminatory tampon tax once and for all

Period https://www.period.org/ Advocating for systemic change through policy & legislation, providing educational resources for

menstruators and allies, and distributing menstrual products to those in need.

The Pad Project https://thepadproject.org/ The Pad Project takes a multi-pronged approach to achieving menstrual equity by combining pad

machines or washable pad programs with community partnerships and sexual and reproductive health education.

Georgia STOMP https://georgiastomp.org/ Georgia STOMP consists of advocacy, service, and

professional organizations joined by the common goal of bringing menstrual equity to government policies and daily life in our state, and by the desire to eliminate period poverty in Georgia.

Glossary

1. Amenorrhea: Absence of menstrual periods, which may be temporary or long-term and can result from various factors such as pregnancy, hormonal imbalances, or underlying medical conditions.

2. Cervix: The lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina, serving as a passageway for menstrual blood to exit the body during menstruation and as a barrier protecting the uterus from infection..

3. Dysmenorrhea: Painful menstrual cramps experienced during menstruation, ranging from mild to severe, often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea and fatigue.

4. Endometriosis: A chronic condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing pain, inflammation, and possible complications such as infertility.

5. Fallopian Tubes: Tubes extending from the ovaries to the uterus, where fertilization typically occurs, allowing eggs released by the ovaries during ovulation to travel to the uterus.

6. Follicular Phase: The first phase of the menstrual cycle, beginning on the first day of menstruation and lasting until ovulation, is characterized by the development of follicles in the ovaries in preparation for ovulation.

7. Gynecologist: A medical doctor specializing in the health of the female reproductive system, including the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause.

8. Luteal Phase: The final phase of the menstrual cycle, following ovulation and lasting until the start of the next menstrual period, characterized by the development of the corpus luteum and preparation of the uterine lining for possible pregnancy.

9. Menorrhea: Abnormally heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, often causing significant disruption to daily activities and requiring medical evaluation and treatment.

10. Menstrual Activism: Advocacy efforts aimed at challenging menstrual stigma, promoting menstrual health and rights, and addressing issues such as period poverty and access to menstrual products.

11. Menstrual Cup: A reusable menstrual product made of medical-grade silicone or rubber, inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood and emptied and cleaned periodically throughout the menstrual cycle.

12. Menstrual Cycle: The recurring process in which the uterus prepares for pregnancy, typically lasting around 28 days, although it can vary among individuals. It includes menstruation, follicular phase, ovulation, and luteal phase.

13. Menstrual Disorders: Medical conditions affecting the menstrual cycle, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis, which may require diagnosis and treatment by healthcare professionals.

14. Menstrual Equity: The principle of ensuring that all individuals have access to safe, affordable, and culturally appropriate menstrual products, education, and support.

15. Menstrual Hygiene: Practices and products used to maintain cleanliness and comfort during menstruation, including proper disposal of menstrual waste and personal hygiene.

16. Menstrual Pads: Absorbent pads worn inside underwear to absorb menstrual blood during menstruation, available in various sizes and absorbencies to accommodate different flow levels.

17. Menstrual Products: Items used to manage menstrual flow, including pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and period underwear.

18. Menstrual Suppression: The intentional prevention or reduction of menstrual bleeding through hormonal birth control methods or medical interventions, often used to manage medical conditions or personal preferences.

19. Menstrual Taboo: Cultural or social restrictions and stigmas surrounding menstruation, often leading to shame, silence, and discrimination against menstruating individuals.

20. Ovulation: The release of a mature egg from the ovary, typically occurring midway through the menstrual cycle, marking the fertile window for conception.

21. Ovulatory Phase: The phase of the menstrual cycle during which ovulation occurs, typically around the midpoint of the cycle, marking the release of a mature egg from the ovary.

22. Period Poverty: The inability to afford or access menstrual products, often leading to adverse effects on physical health, mental well-being, and educational or work opportunities.

23. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): Physical and emotional symptoms experienced by some individuals in the days leading up to menstruation, including mood swings, bloating, and breast tenderness.

24. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A hormonal disorder common among individuals of reproductive age, characterized by enlarged ovaries containing multiple small cysts, irregular menstrual cycles, and symptoms such as excess hair growth and acne.

25. Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) / Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI): Infections transmitted through sexual contact, which may affect the reproductive organs and can include conditions such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and human papillomavirus (HPV).

26. Tampons: Absorbent plugs made of cotton or other materials, inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual blood during menstruation, available in various sizes and absorbencies to accommodate different flow levels.

27. Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS): A rare but potentially life-threatening condition caused by bacterial toxins, often associated with prolonged use of certain types of menstrual products, such as tampons, and characterized by symptoms such as high fever, rash, and organ failure.

28. Uterus: The muscular organ in the female reproductive system where a fertilized egg implants and develops into a fetus during pregnancy, and where the lining sheds during menstruation if pregnancy does not occur.