In Rotterdam, there are more than 2,100 students in primary and secondary education who miss school days due to their menstruation. To tackle this menstrual poverty, schools can offer menstrual products for free. This is done through the so-called MUPs.
In Rotterdam, there are more than 2,100 students in primary and secondary education who miss school days due to their menstruation. To tackle this menstrual poverty, schools can offer menstrual products for free. This is done through the so-called MUPs.
Basic Need
A MUP contains various types, sizes, and brands of sanitary pads and tampons. Menstrual cups are also available. By making the products part of the school restrooms, young women do not have to use harmful alternatives such as toilet paper or reused pads. The MUPs also help break the taboo on menstruation. Menstrual products are a normal basic need, just like soap and toilet paper.
Less Alone
‘The effect of the MUP is very visible. The topic of menstruation has become much more discussable and normalized. And that is very nice,’ says Ellen Wesdorp, location director of HPC Charlois. Carrie Jansen from OBS de Esch is also enthusiastic: ‘The girls and women who use the MUP now feel less alone.’
‘You have to imagine: if you have nothing at home and you get your period, you literally feel restricted. Free products at school ensure that girls can just attend class, feel better, and do not end up in social isolation. No student should miss classes or feel insecure about something natural like menstruation. It is a matter of health, participation, and emancipation. As a city, we said: we wont accept this. And so, almost 200 Rotterdam schools now have a free distribution point where you can just take what you need. No questions, no shame.’
Sign Up
Want to sign your school up for a MUP? You can do so via the registration form. Link opens an external page from the Poverty Fund. On their website, you can also find all other locations. Link opens an external page where a MUP is located.