Improving Accessibility for All Women
Period products, they are available for everyone to use but have you considered about those with disabilities? Though there has been progress within these aspects, there are still challenges that remain especially with the lack of awareness there is within society. This post will be discussing accessibility in menstrual products and public space.
There are many period products available in the market, ranging from pads, tampons, menstrual cups etc. Despite the variety, many women with disabilities have struggled using these due to different factors such as mobility issues and sensory barriers. Using period products could potentially become a struggle, as well as cause discomfort. Not only that, but affordability is also a huge factor as there are a majority of women in certain areas experiencing period poverty, products that implement more accessible designs are often more expensive than normal.
In order to battle these challenges, there are suggested features and factors that should be considered when making an accessible period product:
Easy Packaging:
This especially emphasizes on the opening process itself, the product should not require much dexterity to make sure those who aren’t physically-abled could use and remove it.
Clear Instructions:
Include features such as braille with visual/audio guide to aid those with impairments. Using straight-forward language can also help with easy understanding.
Eco-friendly materials:
Avoid using chemicals or non-biodegradable materials to make sure that it isn’t harmful for the environment. This is also to ensure that product usage is comfortable and doesn’t cause irritation/allergies.
Reusable wearables:
Products should offer reusability, such as period underwears and reusable pads so it is economical. Additionally include fasteners such as velcros, buttons or magnets for easy access.
With accessible products, there are some brands that have attempted to create inclusive options such as Flux Undies and Thinx. Examples are underwear to prevent period leakage that ensures all women are comfortable during their menstruations.
Within discussing accessibility in public spaces, those with disabilities are still not accounted for especially in any public restrooms. Not only that, but transportations and other factors make it hard for disabled women to navigate the world, highlighting the need for accessible restrooms to be the bare minimum as being able to manage your periods comfortably should be considered to be a human right itself. In the act of improving accessibility, it should be a norm to include the aspects discussed further.
All restrooms should include a universal design that includes: wide doors, low grab bars for easy reach, emergency assistance buttons, and space to especially accommodate wheelchairs or caregivers. Aside from these design choices, there are still many restrooms that do not include menstrual product dispensers. Not only should this be included everywhere to battle period poverty, but ensure that it is strategically placed in a lower position along with an easy interface for high accessibility. There are some who require assistance, therefore there should be facilities that include adult-sized changing tables.
In the end, accessibility is still very much a problem that has to be tackled all over the world. Accessible menstrual products and places should not be considered a luxury in any way but to be considered as a fundamental right. By bringing more awareness and addressing the needs of disabled women, there is hope in bringing equality for every woman.
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