Free menstrual products at the University of Cologne: A big step for everyone!

Free menstrual products at the University of Cologne: A big step for everyone!

The University of Cologne has decided to launch a groundbreaking pilot project to provide free menstrual products for its students. Starting in 2025, dispensers for sanitary pads and tampons will be installed in eight toilet facilities on campus. The primary target group is the students, who are pushing this issue forward, particularly through the AStA and the Equal Opportunities Officer.

The initiative aims to make menstrual products accessible to everyone. This includes not only public toilets, but also all-gender and barrier-free facilities. The Rectorate has approved a budget of 13,000 euros for this. The success of the measure will be evaluated at the end of the test phase in cooperation with the AStA and the equal opportunities officer. The project is being implemented by the Office of the Central Equal Opportunities Officer and the Department of Building and Property Management. University employees can also provide menstrual products free of charge in staff or office toilets.

Background to period poverty

A central motivation for this project is the alarming finding of the study “Menstruation in Focus” by Plan International. This shows that almost a quarter of menstruating people in Germany have financial difficulties in purchasing hygiene products, a problem known as period poverty. Young women between the ages of 16 and 25 are particularly affected; Almost three quarters of those surveyed would like lower prices for hygiene products.

The survey also shows that one in four menstruating people prefer to stay at home during their period due to inadequate toilet infrastructure. The university's project could therefore make an important contribution to addressing this challenge and contributing to the normalization of menstruation in society.

Social responsibility and education

Dr. med. Ulrike Lange, medical advisor at menstruflow, highlights that easy access to menstrual products in public institutions, schools and the workplace is a fundamental health issue. It is crucial to free menstruation from the taboo zone in order to dismantle outdated ideas and accept the natural cycle as a normal part of life. Social acceptance is a necessary step towards eliminating prejudices and insecurities.

In addition, the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) is actively involved in the fight against menstrual poverty, as shown on the website bmz.de is reported. Development Minister Svenja Schulze emphasizes that more than 600 million girls and women worldwide do not have access to hygiene products. A lack of sanitary facilities and a lack of hygiene services prevent many from regularly participating in school or working life.

This global context highlights the importance of the Cologne project and similar initiatives. They are part of a broader strategy to promote equality for women, girls and marginalized groups. Education about menstruation and related hygiene issues remains a central part of this commitment to reduce structural discrimination and improve the quality of life for many people.