Access to sanitary pads is an essential right to guarantee menstrual dignity. With this in mind, the federal government has launched an initiative that makes sanitary pads available FREE ABSORBENTS FROM THE SUS through Farmácia Popular. Thousands of accredited pharmacies are already distributing the item to people in situations of social vulnerability.
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The measure is part of the Menstrual Health and Dignity Protection and Promotion Program and aims to combat menstrual poverty in Brazil.
Below you can check out everything about it, including how to benefit from this program. Follow along and find out more.
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What is Period Poverty and Why is This Initiative Important?
Period poverty is the lack of access to hygiene products, such as sanitary pads, soap and adequate toilets during the menstrual period. According to the United Nations (UN), one in four Brazilian girls miss school during their period due to a lack of these resources. In addition, around 4 million girls suffer from a lack of hygiene conditions in the school environment.
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This situation not only affects the self-esteem and well-being of menstruating people, but also directly impacts their education and future opportunities. Access to FREE ABSORBENTS FROM THE SUS It is a great step forward to change this scenario.
Who is entitled to free sanitary pads from the SUS?
To access the benefit of FREE ABSORBENTS FROM THE SUS, it is necessary to meet the following requirements:
- Be between 10 and 49 years old, considered fertile age;
- Be registered in the Single Registry (CadÚnico);
- Being in one of the following situations:
- Extreme social vulnerability, with a monthly family income of up to R$$ 218 per person;
- Be a public school student and have an income of up to half the minimum wage;
- Being homeless.
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Where can I get free sanitary pads from the SUS?
This item is available in more than 31 thousand pharmacies accredited to the Farmácia Popular program throughout Brazil.
You can check the nearest unit through the official website of Menstrual Dignity Campaign – a cycle of respect.
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How does the Menstrual Dignity Campaign work?
The campaign “Menstrual Dignity – a cycle of respect” was released on the day January 23, 2024 and is being publicized on open TV, radio and in places with large circulation of people. The initiative seeks to raise awareness among the population about menstrual poverty and ensure that more people have access to the benefit.
For more information, you can access the official page of Ministry of Health.
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How to Request Free Sanitary Pads from the SUS?
To remove the FREE PADS THANKS TO THE SUS, you must follow the step by step below:
- Download the My SUS Digital app and log in with your Gov.br details;
- Request authorization to remove the pad in the application itself;
- Bring a photo ID and CPF;
- Go to a pharmacy accredited by the Farmácia Popular Program and present authorization to withdraw the product.
If you have difficulty generating the authorization document, you can seek help at a Basic Health Unit (UBS) or at Social Assistance Reference Centers (CRAS), Pop Centers and Street Clinic teams.
Finally, the SUS initiative to provide free sanitary pads is an important step towards ensuring dignity and quality of life for menstruating people who face financial difficulties. Period poverty is a real problem that affects millions of people across Brazil, harming education, health and social inclusion. By distributing this essential item free of charge, the government seeks to minimize the negative impacts of this reality and provide better hygiene and well-being conditions.
In addition to facilitating access to sanitary pads, this action helps to raise awareness about menstrual poverty, encouraging more inclusive and effective public policies. Universal access to menstrual hygiene products should be seen as a basic right, ensuring that everyone can experience this period safely and with dignity.
If you meet the established criteria, be sure to secure your benefit. Download the Meu SUS Digital app, request your authorization and collect your free pad from the SUS.
Share this information with those who need it and help promote a cycle of respect and dignity for everyone!
DOWNLOAD THE MY DIGITAL SUS APP
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