The University of San Diego’s Changemaker Hub, in collaboration with the Think Dignity non-profit public benefit corporation, has studied the effects of homelessness on women and those who menstruate. The study also explored which solutions would best fit their needs. It was facilitated through GroupSolver and its Insight Brief program, which gives researchers free access to the company’s online survey platform, tools and expertise so they can uncover answers to the important and timely questions society faces today.
A survey of 168 respondents who menstruate and have experienced houselessness at some point has shown the alarming extent to which having a period disrupts the lives and well-being of those facing housing insecurity. Due to the high cost of menstrual products, 74% of respondents reported having sacrificed a meal or other necessity in order to afford these basic products. 93% have had to resort to using unconventional materials (such as toilet paper or socks) to make their own makeshift menstrual products. These measures can create increased risk of infection and further strain on personal health and hygiene. Being unable to safely manage a period can also get in the way of other responsibilities — the study found that a striking 74% of respondents have missed school, work or an interview due to their period.
Menstrual stigma causes additional barriers
Periods are widely and unjustly stigmatized in the United States which creates further challenges for those facing housing insecurity. In the study, 36% of respondents said the stigma around asking for products was a barrier to accessing menstruation products. One respondent explained that they felt “Sad, embarrassed, worry. It was my time of the month, and I was unable to shower for 4 days, it made me feel gross and embarrassed.” (see Figure 1). This response received 87% support from other study participants who were asked to agree or disagree with it.
A second part of the study was then conducted so the Think Dignity could evaluate four concepts for increasing free access to menstrual products and alleviating the strain that individuals experiencing housing insecurity face every month. These included: a mini pantry standard backpack; a bicycle with a cart attached; and mobile delivery truck that contains a variety of free menstrual and hygiene products.
While 61% of respondents stated that they were likely to use the pantry stand, many were concerned that “It might run out fast” (75% support) and that “most people would take all or more than needed” (74% support).
A higher percentage (71%) of respondents said they would be likely to use the backpack concept. It offers a slightly different approach, where each individual in need of these products would receive a backpack filled with free hygiene products from a local organization. Those that supported the solution indicated that in addition to providing free access to products “a backpack provides a sense of ownership” (75% support) and even believed “It will help with a woman’s dignity” (83% support).
The convenience of the bicycle and mobile delivery truck made them popular choices for respondents. 30% said that transportation was a barrier to accessing personal hygiene products and 11% said physical disabilities created a significant barrier. 60% of respondents stated that they were likely to use the bicycle, and 77 percent support one respondent’s statement that ”.. it’s perfect because not a lot of people can go shopping [because of] no car.” The truck concept evoked similar feedback with 72% of respondents supporting the statement, “This would help out so much, to have access to hygiene products without having to walk far or take public transportation would be amazing.”
Overall, 65% of respondents indicated that they were likely to use the truck concept, however some noted that it could still be a little embarrassing due to lack of privacy in the interaction. On the other hand, some thought that “this is more private than the wagon concept” (43% support) and others indicated that the idea “looks ok as long it discreet and it’s not posted on the side of the truck” (51% support).
Reshaping access to menstrual products
For individuals facing housing insecurity, having a period creates a myriad of challenges from the cost of products and transportation to menstrual stigma that can be damaging to their overall well-being. The creative solutions being explored by Think Dignity provide a new angle for tackling this crucial issue and making access to menstrual products safe, convenient and dignified. Although a finalized solution is still a work in progress, the study found respondents were interested in all of these concepts, particularly the backpack and truck. This first-hand feedback provides essential insights into the needs and preferences of those who will be most impacted by these solutions. From here, Think Dignity can address this issue and leverage these findings in the development of effective and long-lasting solutions.
Researchers who want more information on the Impact Briefs program can contact GroupSolver at impactbriefs@groupsolver.com.
