YOU can help end the stigma. PERIOD.
May 07, 2026
Period stigma holds girls back. But together, we can change the narrative ā and ensure every girl can manage her period with dignity and pride.
Menstrual Health Day
Periods should never stand in the way
Every year on May 28, we mark Menstrual Health Day, a global reminder that no one should be held back, excluded or shamed because of their period.
At Plan, we know periods arenāt just a health issue. They are a barrier to equality. Around the world, girls and young women miss school, face stigma and struggle to access basic supplies simply because of menstruation. Thatās why weāre working to change both the story and the systems behind it.
Beyond a single day
Through our partnership with KotexĀ® and the Kimberly-Clark Foundation, weāve reached more than 11 million people with menstrual health education, resources and support across eight countries. From classroom learning to peer-led community programs that include boys and parents, our work helps ensure girls have the knowledge, tools and confidence to manage their periods with dignity.
While May 28 is an important moment, our commitment goes beyond a single day. We work year-round to support girlsā education, advance gender equality and help create environments where periods never stand in the way of opportunity.
Because when girls can learn, speak up and move through the world without shame, progress follows.
Menstrual Health Day stories
āI learned I could say no.ā How education changed Fernandaās future
May 01, 2026
Fernanda, 17, from Lima, Peru, is working toward her dream of becoming a doctor. Through workshops, she gained the knowledge and confidence to make decisions
The ripple effect: Menstrual health, girlsā empowerment and a brighter future
May 19, 2025
When girls have access to menstrual health education and supplies, the impact goes far beyond hygiene. It opens doors to confidence, school attendance and long-term empowerment. This blog explores how breaking period stigma creates ripple effects that transform lives and communities.
Across generations ā periods through the ages
May 14, 2025
From El Salvador to Togo, grandmothers, mothers and daughters are speaking openly about periods ā many for the first time. These intergenerational conversations are breaking taboos, building understanding and helping girls navigate their menstrual health with dignity.
The futures girls want: Making education accessible through menstrual health
Oct 01, 2024
The future girls want is one where they can learn,Ā leadĀ and live without limits. But right now, too many obstacles stand in their way. In our
Periods through the ages: Togo
May 22, 2024
This post is part of Plan’s blog series, āPeriods through the ages,ā highlighting girls and the women in their families as they share period stories
Periods through the ages: Nepal
May 22, 2024
This post is part of Plan’s blog series, āPeriods through the ages,ā highlighting girls and the women in their families as they share period stories
Periods through the ages: El Salvador
May 22, 2024
This post is part of Plan’s blog series, āPeriods through the ages,ā highlighting girls and the women in their families as they share period stories
Periods through the ages: Nigeria
May 22, 2024
This post is part of Plan’s blog series, āPeriods through the ages,ā highlighting girls and the women in their families as they share period stories
Periods through the ages: Cambodia
May 22, 2024
This post is part of Plan’s blog series, āPeriods through the ages,ā highlighting girls and the women in their families as they share period stories
Use your inbox for good
Join our newsletter to receive the latest updates and information about your impact.