Paving the Way for Period Awareness & Equity
For far too long, menstrual health has been a taboo topic, shrouded in stigma and silence. But thanks to fearless women throughout history, the conversation around periods has shifted—from something to be ashamed of to a vital health issue that demands attention, education, and innovation. These trailblazing women have paved the way for period activism, care, and product development, ensuring that menstruators everywhere have access to dignity, resources, and support.
1. Nancy Kramer – Breaking the Silence in Public Spaces
Nancy Kramer is the founder of the “Free the Tampons” movement, advocating for free menstrual products in all public restrooms—just like toilet paper. Her work has influenced policy changes in businesses, schools, and even legislation, ensuring more equitable access to period products for all.
2. Nadya Okamoto – A Modern Activist for Menstrual Equity
At just 16 years old, Nadya Okamoto founded PERIOD, a nonprofit dedicated to ending period poverty and stigma. Through advocacy, education, and direct product distribution, Okamoto’s work has contributed to the growing movement for menstrual equity, ensuring that everyone who menstruates has access to the products they need.
3. Celeste Mergens – Founder of Days for Girls
Celeste Mergens founded Days for Girls, an organization that provides sustainable menstrual products and education to girls in developing countries. By creating reusable period kits, her work has empowered millions of girls to stay in school and participate fully in their communities without the burden of period poverty.
4. Carolyn Wiesenfeld – The Creator of Menstrual Cups
The menstrual cup, though growing in popularity today, was first developed in the 1930s by Leona Chalmers. However, it was Carolyn Wiesenfeld in the 1980s who modernized the design, making it more practical and accessible. Today, menstrual cups are a sustainable, cost-effective alternative that has transformed period care worldwide.
5. Jennifer Weiss Wolf – The Creator of Menstrual Equity Movement
As the creator of the menstrual equity movement, Jennifer has dedicated her career to ensuring that period products are treated as necessities, not luxuries. Through her groundbreaking book "Periods Gone Public" and her ongoing advocacy, she has brought national attention to period poverty — fighting for policy change, education, and greater access to menstrual products for all.
Why Their Work Matters
These women have not only innovated period care but have also dismantled stigma and fought for equity. Their contributions have ensured that menstruation is recognized as a natural and significant health issue rather than a shameful inconvenience. Thanks to them, today’s generation can advocate for change, push for policy shifts, and continue to make menstrual products more accessible to all.
As we celebrate these pioneers, let’s remember that the fight for menstrual equity is ongoing. Whether through advocacy, product innovation, or breaking the silence, we all have a role to play in ensuring that no one is held back by their period.
How You Can Help
Advocate for free period products in schools, workplaces, and public restrooms.
Support organizations that distribute menstrual products to those in need.
Educate others about period health and combat stigma in everyday conversations.
By honoring these trailblazers and continuing their work, we can create a world where menstrual equity is the norm, not the exception.
