Who Are We?

Läpivuoto ry is a Finnish non-profit organization working to end period poverty.

We believe that everyone has the right to safe, healthy, and dignified periods – regardless of income, social status, or background.

The organization fights period poverty with the goal of improving people's health, well-being, and equality. We strive to ensure that no one has to choose between menstrual products and other basic needs.

What We Do?

Influencing Policy and Driving Change

We monitor the issue of period poverty and related legislation in Finland and internationally.

We propose initiatives, provide statements, and highlight solutions to help end period poverty.

Raising Awareness and Providing Support

We organize meetings, events, and trainings on topics related to period poverty.

We offer guidance and advice to individuals and communities.

Building Community and Strengthening Solidarity

We build partnerships between different actors and strengthen the sense of community among those affected by period poverty.

What Is Period Poverty?

Period poverty refers to a situation where a person cannot afford, access, or obtain sufficient and safe menstrual products or other menstrual hygiene supplies and services.

It can also refer to a lack of information, privacy, or necessary support during menstruation.

Period poverty can be caused by factors such as:

Financial difficulties
Homelessness or unsafe living conditions
Stigma and shame around menstruation
High cost of menstrual products
Lack of support and services

Period poverty does not affect everyone in the same way. It is especially experienced by young people, students, low-income individuals, undocumented persons, homeless people, and other vulnerable groups.

Why Change Is Needed?

Currently, Finland lacks a comprehensive period policy. The discussion is limited to tax regulation, even though a more holistic approach is needed: a policy that recognizes menstrual health as a fundamental right and centers those most affected by the issue.

Läpivuoto ry was founded to create a movement that makes period poverty visible and heard. We need advocacy based on lived experience, research, and principles of equality. Safe spaces and new tools are necessary to empower those experiencing period poverty to become agents of change — to share their stories, influence decisions, and demand their rights.

Läpivuoto ry aims to build a platform for knowledge, community, and advocacy. Our work is grounded in the belief that menstrual justice is not a private matter but a societal issue. Change requires action — and above all, the involvement of those experiencing period poverty in solving it.

Period poverty is a matter of equality. It affects education, employment, health, and human dignity. We want to make it visible and ensure that everyone has the right to safe and healthy periods without stigma.

Läpivuoto ry is an official partner of Menstrual Hygiene Day, organized by WASH United.

Menstrual Hygiene Day takes place every year on May 28th.

Find Out More

Together for #PeriodFriendlyWorld