Periods don’t have to be heavy (on your pocket)

The NHS states that a woman can have up to 480 periods across their lifetime, and it’s estimated they will use an average of 22 tampons or pads per month. These costs quickly add up, and with the rising cost of living, more people are experiencing ‘period poverty’. Period poverty refers to the lack of access to the necessary period products, impacting the ability to live a normal life. Many are forced to choose between buying period products and essentials like food and electricity, leading to missed work, school and social activities.

If you’re finding yourself in this situation, know that you’re not alone. There are resources and tips available to help you manage your period without breaking the bank.

Shop around for cheaper options

Consider switching to supermarket own-brand products, which often provide similar quality at a lower price.

Use price comparison sites

There are a few good price comparison sites out there, however, Sanitary Saver offers up-to-date information on the cheapest period products available. You can filter by product type, brand and flow.

Reusable options

While the initial cost is higher that disposable products, reusable products can save money in the long term. Options include:

• Period pants: These products last just as long as regular underwear and can be bought online or in some high street stores (such as Primark, Next and M&S).
• Reusable pads: Reusable pads can last up to 5 years   and can be purchased online.
• Menstrual cups: Can be used for several years (anywhere from 1 to 10 years depending on the manufacturer’s instructions). They can be found online, pharmacies and in high street beauty shops.

Pain relief

• Painkillers: Generic or store-brand painkillers can be just as effective as those specifically marketed for period pain and much cheaper.
• Lifestyle changes: Cutting down on alcohol and smoking may help ease period pain. Light exercise and relaxation techniques can also be beneficial.

For more details on how you can save money on period products, read this great guide from Money Saving Expert.

If you find yourself unable to afford period products, there are several places in Portsmouth where you can access free supplies:

Paulsgrove Bathroom Bank

The Paulsgrove Bathroom bank is based at St. Michael’s Church, running on Thursdays 2-4pm, and Fridays & Saturdays 9-12pm. You don’t need a referral and you can pick your items yourself.

You can attend the bathroom bank once a month, and the number of items you can select is determined by your individual situation. If you would like to learn more, you can contact the lovely team at 023 9238 7339 or email fatherhugodeadman5@gmail.com for details.

Free Flow Portsmouth

Free Flow is a small local project, regularly providing period products to charities across the city. If you are struggling to afford period products, contact Free Flow directly and they can tell you where your nearest pick up point is. If you have a disability which may prevent you from accessing one of these points, you can also reach out to the team, and they will arrange for these products to come to you.

• Visit the Free Flow Portsmouth website
• Email the team at freeflowportsmouth@gmail.com

Out and about

• The charity Endometriosis South Coast stocks free period products at locations including Aspex Portsmouth, Baby 2000, and Sisters of Chaos.
• Morrisons supermarkets provide free period pads at the customer service desk – ask for ‘a package left by Sandy’ or a ‘free period pack’ at the desk and receive a free sanitary pad.
• Sixth forms and colleges have funding to provide free period products to their students until July 2025.

Foodbanks

Portsmouth Foodbanks often have period products available. Ask a staff member when collecting your parcel. Locations include:

• The Kings Church and Centre (Southsea)
• Harbour Church (Commercial Road)
• Paulsgrove Baptist Church (Woofferton Road)

Family Church Food Bank at the Empower Centre also includes period products in the family toiletry parcel, provided every 4 weeks.

Please note – You will need a referral to access food banks. Find more details on getting a referral.

Find additional support on the Cost of Living hub

For further support and advice on managing the rising cost of living, visit the Cost of Living Hub provided by Portsmouth City Council. You can find guidance and resources to help navigate financial challenges and even speak with a cost of living advisor for additional support.

Remember, help is available, and there are resources in place to support you through difficult times. Reaching out and taking advantage of these services can make a significant difference in managing the rising cost of living.

Big thanks goes to our guest blogger Lana Mullins for this month’s article. Lana is a Public Health practitioner graduate at Portsmouth City Council.

If you would like to be a guest blogger, please email your idea for an article to costofliving@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

Information sources:

• NHS website: Periods and fertility in the menstrual cycle – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
• Money Saving Expert: Cheap period products: save money on tampons, pads & reusable sanitary products – MSE (moneysavingexpert.com)
• Action Aid:  UK Period poverty rises from 12 to 21% | ActionAid UK