Period poverty in Ireland

Period poverty generally means not being able to afford or get the products, facilities and information needed to manage a period. It is a matter of health and dignity, and it can also affect people’s ability to take part in school, work and daily life.

Key facts

These figures come from the Healthy Ireland Survey 2022, the first time it covered this topic. It interviewed a representative sample of 7,455 people aged 15 and over between November 2021 and July 2022.

• 24%: the share of women who have experienced period poverty.
• 67%: the share of respondents who have experienced period pain.
• 59%: the combined share whose daily activities are regularly limited by symptoms, with 49% limited somewhat and 10% significantly.

What is being done

A government sub-committee published a discussion paper on period poverty in February 2021. In announcing the 2022 survey results, the Department of Health said its actions focus on those most in need, including people who are homeless, living with addiction or in consistent poverty, and minorities including Travellers and Roma.

Some local authorities also offer free period products, as Clare County Council does. Availability varies, so check with your own council. Good data remains limited, and the department itself has noted gaps in what is known about women’s health.

Where to find out more

• Period Poverty in Ireland discussion paper: the government sub-committee’s report
• Healthy Ireland Survey 2022: the Department of Health’s announcement of the results
• Plan International Ireland: the children’s rights and girls’ equality charity
• HSE health information: health advice, including on period problems
• National Women’s Council: Ireland’s national women’s membership organisation

Figures checked October 2026. Each figure gives its year, and newer data may since have been published.