Menstrual injustice: the lack of recognition of menstruation as an integral aspect of health and well-being

Abstract

Objective: to verify whether Brazilian legislators recognize menstrual dignity as an interdisciplinary issue and show concern for the health of the menstruating population, aligning themselves with internationally discussed practices and concerns on the subject. Methodology: this was a study with a qualitative and quantitative approach, focused on the documentary analysis of legislative proposals available on the official websites of the Chamber of Deputies and the Federal Senate, using the following search terms: "menstruation," "sanitary pads," "menstrual dignity," "hygienic pads," and "menstrual health". Results: a total of 94 legislative proposals were identified, of which 40 directly addressed the topic. After screening, 21 distinct Bills remained for analysis, organized into three categories: (i) menstrual leave (n=4), referring to the impact of menstruation on productivity and workplace well-being; (ii) promotion of menstrual health (n=11), with measures such as free distribution of pads and educational campaigns; and (iii) tax exemption (n=6), aiming at reducing or eliminating taxes on menstrual products. Conclusion: the scarcity of projects addressing this topic highlights the extent to which the Brazilian Legislature neglects the demands of the female body, exacerbating barriers and hindering the social and political trajectory of women in the country. This omission also reveals a lack of understanding by the legislature regarding the interdisciplinary nature of the issue.

Submitted: 01/14/25| Revision: 06/16/25| Approved: 06/23/25