Bulk Sanitary Pad Sales Spotlight Period Poverty

Sanitary pads sold in bulk online have caught the attention of China’s blogosphere. Costing 21.99 yuan ($3.2) for 100 pads, the pads are one-third the price of packaged brands. While many questioned the hygiene of unpackaged tampons, supporters believe they are an affordable option for economically disadvantaged women. The sales also drew attention to period poverty, or inadequate access to sanitary products and education, which according to UNICEF affects at least 500 million women and girls across the world, including those in developed countries.