AHF Calls for Access and Dignity on Menstrual Health Day

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) joins the global commemoration of Menstrual Health Day with events across nearly 50 countries, highlighting the importance of reducing period stigma and expanding access to affordable menstrual products—critical steps in protecting overall health and reducing vulnerability to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Menstrual Health Day is observed annually on May 28.

Around the world, barriers to menstrual health continue to impact the education, health, and economic stability of women and girls, particularly in regions heavily affected by HIV, including Sub-Saharan Africa. Through this year’s global commemorations, AHF is drawing attention to the urgent need for accessible menstrual products, comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services, and greater education to combat stigma and misinformation. By supporting access to essential health resources, including HIV testing and prevention tools, AHF aims to empower people who menstruate to make informed decisions and protect their long-term health.

“As a global healthcare organization, AHF recognizes that menstrual health is deeply connected to dignity, equality, and HIV prevention,” said Terri Ford, AHF Chief of Global Advocacy and Policy. “No one should have to choose between managing their period safely and protecting their health. Menstrual Health Day is a reminder that ending stigma and investing in menstrual health is essential to achieving better health outcomes worldwide.”

Nearly 2 billion people menstruate globally, yet 500 million will experience period poverty – including a lack of adequate products, facilities, and supportive environments. Combined with persistent stigma and taboos, these barriers can lead to poor health outcomes, missed education and work opportunities, and reduced access to sexual and reproductive healthcare, including HIV services. This Menstrual Health Day, AHF calls for urgent action to end period poverty, expand access to care, and eliminate stigma.

AHF continues to support menstrual health by distributing free sanitary pads to women and girls in nearly 50 countries. In 2025 alone, AHF distributed more than 330,000 sanitary pads globally. These efforts are part of AHF’s broader commitment to young women and girls through its Girls Act empowerment program, which advances education, empowerment, and access to essential health resources. Visit GirlsAct.org to learn more.

AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), the world’s largest HIV/AIDS healthcare organization, provides cutting-edge medicine and advocacy to more than 3 million individuals across 50 countries, including the U.S. and in Africa, Latin America/Caribbean, the Asia/Pacific Region, and Eastern Europe. In January 2025, AHF received the MLK, Jr. Social Justice Award, The King Center’s highest recognition for an organization leading work in the social justice arena. To learn more about AHF, visit us online at AIDShealth.org, find us on Facebook, and follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.