MENSTRUAL POVERTY IN ADOLESCENCE: SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE ON IMPACTS, BARRIERS, AND COPING STRATEGIES

Abstract

This article sought to analyze scientific evidence on menstrual poverty during adolescence, identifying its impacts, associated barriers, and coping strategies. This integrative literature review, with a qualitative and descriptive approach, was conducted between December 2025 and June 2026 using the MEDLINE and LILACS databases (via VHL), covering publications from 2021 to 2026. Findings indicate that menstrual poverty extends beyond financial constraints, encompassing social stigma, misinformation, and poor sanitary infrastructure, which leads to risks to intimate health, school absenteeism, and social isolation. The studies evidenced the toxicological and microbiological safety of hygiene products and highlighted the importance of male inclusion to reduce taboos. However, isolated interventions and legislation lacking guaranteed funding prove insufficient. It concludes that addressing menstrual poverty requires integrated, cross-sector public policies combining continuous supply distribution, upgraded sanitary infrastructure, and inclusive health education to ensure dignity and equity for adolescents.