Assessing Period Poverty in Trinidad and Tobago: an Exploratory Approach

Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess period poverty in Trinidad and Tobago Material and Methods: A nationally-drawn sample of 504 women between the ages of 18-48 was used from various urban areas of the country. A cross-sectional research design using a 14-item questionnaire with a mix of closed and open-ended questions was utilised to obtain data about women’s experiences concerning the affordability of period products and how they cope with their periods Results: The findings show that 76% of the sample did not believe that period products are affordable and that 51% reported that they struggled to obtain period products. Furthermore, 55% indicated that they had to borrow or change their current brand of the period product, and 51% revealed that they had to improvise or use alternative products such as toilet paper, napkins, and paper towels. The vast majority of the women also reported that their workplace and schools did not provide them with sanitary products and 99% believe that they should provide them with these products Conclusion: Considering these findings, it can be concluded that period poverty exists in Trinidad and Tobago, and recommendations include enacting proper legislation and policies to eliminate or reduce this problem.