July 13, 2026-- Despite affecting an estimated 2 billion people, menstrual health continues to be overlooked by governments, businesses and the scientific community, prompting calls for it to be recognized as a fundamental public health issue. A new international commentary by Marni Sommer, DrPH, MSN, professor of Sociomedical Sciences) at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, was published today in the journal The Lancet Haematology , part of a full report of a Commission of The Lancet released today.
Improving menstrual health extends far beyond access to menstrual products, observes Sommer. It requires comprehensive education, quality healthcare across the lifespan, menstrual-friendly schools, workplaces and public spaces, and policies that enable people to manage menstruation with dignity.
"Until menstrual health is recognized as a fundamental aspect of population health, meaningful progress in improving access worldwide will remain out of reach," said Sommer.
While the World Health Organization defines health as complete physical, mental and social wellbeing, experts argue menstrual health deserves the same recognition. The Global Menstrual Collective Terminology Action Group has defined menstrual health as encompassing access to accurate information, healthcare, water and sanitation, and environments free from stigma.
However, practical menstrual health education including an understanding of knowing what is normal and when to seek medical care for excessive bleeding or pain remains largely absent from school curricula, with most teaching limited to basic biology.
Sommer is also calling for greater support for vulnerable populations, including people experiencing homelessness, those living on low incomes, people in humanitarian settings, and those who are incarcerated or in immigration detention, where access to safe, clean toilets and menstrual materials as well as appropriate healthcare is often limited.
More immediate attention is also needed to ensure workplaces support menstrual health and to better understand how the menstrual cycle influences overall health. within populations. This extends to athletics including high performance, elite athletes.
"We need to recognize the menstrual cycle as a lifelong health issue—from preparation for menarche through to menopause. That also means ensuring people who menstruate, and those who support them, have access to accurate information and evidence-based care," noted Sommer.
Sommer and colleagues say growing evidence is expanding understanding of the menstrual cycle's impact on health, but sustained investment is needed to improve education, reduce stigma and ensure equitable access to menstrual health for everyone.
Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health
