BAHP Recognizes Menstrual Hygiene Day 2026
On Menstrual Hygiene Day, The Center for Baby and Adult Hygiene Products (BAHP) joins organizations and advocates around the world in recognizing the importance of menstrual health, hygiene access, and education.
Observed annually on May 28, Menstrual Hygiene Day raises awareness about the barriers many individuals face in accessing menstrual hygiene products and resources. Menstrual health is closely connected to overall health, dignity, education, workplace participation, and economic opportunity.
The Global Context for Menstrual Health
Menstrual health is a critical public health, gender equality, and economic issue. An estimated 1.72 billion people who menstruate live in low- and middle-income countries, a number projected to reach 1.89 billion by 2035. More than one-third of individuals in these regions cannot consistently meet their needs with safe, purpose-made menstrual products.
In many countries, product standards are limited or nonexistent, and where standards do exist, they vary widely. This inconsistency can create risks for consumers, barriers for manufacturers, and fragmented, inefficient markets.
Advancing Global Standards and Collaboration
To address these challenges, international collaboration on harmonized standards is gaining momentum through the International Organization for Standardization and ISO Technical Committee 338.
BAHP is proud to announce its new membership in the ISO TAG (Technical Advisory Group), contributing to ongoing efforts to develop globally relevant, equitable, and implementable standards for menstrual products. Engagement from both high-income and low- and middle-income countries is essential to ensure that emerging standards reflect diverse needs and real-world conditions.
These efforts support a more consistent and transparent global framework, helping improve product safety, market efficiency, and access to essential menstrual hygiene products worldwide.
BAHP’s Commitment
As the trade association representing the absorbent hygiene products industry, BAHP supports efforts to expand access to safe, affordable, and reliable menstrual hygiene products for all who need them. Our members are committed to innovation, product safety, consumer education, and advancing policies that help address period poverty in communities across the United States.
Millions of people continue to experience challenges accessing menstrual products due to financial hardship, limited availability, or stigma surrounding menstruation. Addressing these challenges requires collaboration among manufacturers, policymakers, nonprofit organizations, educators, and community leaders.
BAHP is proud to work alongside partners across sectors who are dedicated to improving menstrual equity and increasing awareness around menstrual hygiene needs. Through continued advocacy, education, and engagement, meaningful progress can be made toward ensuring that menstrual products are accessible and available to everyone.
On Menstrual Hygiene Day, BAHP reaffirms its commitment to supporting policies and initiatives that promote health, dignity, and access for individuals and families nationwide.
For more information about BAHP and its work, please contact Deputy Director Giovanna Komst at gia@bahp.com.