Periods of hardship: a scoping review of menstrual health challenges among young people experiencing homelessness

BACKGROUND: Millions of people worldwide lack resources to manage menstruation in a safe and dignified way. Period poverty in high-income countries affects vulnerable populations, including young people experiencing homelessness. This leads to poor menstrual health and negatively affects physical, psychological, and social wellbeing. This review examines the available evidence on menstrual health among people experiencing homelessness to inform understanding of the menstrual health challenges faced by young people experiencing homelessness. METHODS: A scoping review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA-ScR methodology. Three online databases (CINAHL, Medline, and Web of Science) were searched for articles focused on menstrual health among people experiencing homelessness. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied and relevant articles assessed. Additional articles were identified through citation searching. RESULTS: A total of 16 articles met the inclusion criteria. Three key themes were identified for people experiencing homelessness: (1) challenges to menstrual health management, (2) mental health implications of poor menstrual health, and (3) strategies to improve menstrual health. There was a dearth of literature specific to young people experiencing homelessness. CONCLUSION: This review highlights menstrual health for people experiencing homelessness as a public health and human rights issue. A multi-sectoral approach is required to overcome barriers to accessing menstrual products, clean water, sanitary facilities, and health care in this population. Future research should prioritise understanding the menstrual health experiences and outcomes of young people experiencing homelessness.