Announcements
Did you know that it is possible to have access to free sanitary pads? The Farmácia Popular program began offering free sanitary pads to people facing social vulnerability.
This effort is part of the Program for the Protection and Promotion of Menstrual Health and Dignity, a federal government action to combat the problems caused by menstrual poverty.
In total, more than 31 thousand pharmacies across Brazil are participating, ready to provide these essential hygiene products to those entitled to this benefit.
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Understand menstrual poverty
The problem of lack of access to menstrual hygiene products, known as menstrual poverty, continues to be a serious issue that impacts many people, including interfering with school attendance.
According to information from the UN, in Brazil, one in four students stops going to school when they are menstruating.
Additionally, around 4 million female students face difficulties maintaining adequate menstrual hygiene at school due to a lack of access to sanitary pads, adequate toilets and soap.
See how you can get free sanitary pads and ensure a decent menstrual period below.
Right to access
You are entitled to receive free sanitary pads:
- Individuals aged between 10 and 49 years, a period considered reproductive, who are registered with the Single Registry (CadÚnico) of the federal government.
To have access, the person must also be in one of the following conditions:
- Living in a situation of extreme social vulnerability, with a per capita family income of up to R$ 218;
- Being a student in public schools and belonging to low-income families (income of up to half the minimum wage per person);
- Being homeless.
To get the free sanitary pad, follow these simple steps: first, show the authorization you received through the aplicativo Meu SUS Digital.
Then, don't forget to bring a photo ID and your CPF.
Difficulty issuing documents
People who encounter difficulties in issuing the document have the option of seeking assistance at Basic Health Units (UBS) or social assistance services.
Such as the Social Assistance Reference Centers (Cras), Pop Centers, or the Consultório na Rua teams, who are ready to provide necessary guidance.
The initiative “Menstrual Dignity – a cycle of respect”, being publicized on open television channels, radio stations and in various locations that record high movement of people across the country.
For those looking for additional information, you can access the website developed by the Ministry of Health.
How to get the free sanitary pad?
To get a free sanitary pad, it's simple: go to a location participating in the Farmácia Popular program.
Upon arrival, show an official document with your CPF and a 'Menstrual Dignity Program Authorization'.
This document can be either printed or digital and is obtained through the 'Meu SUS Digital' application or website (Conecte SUS update), with a validity of 180 days. If the interested person is under 16 years old, a legal guardian must make the withdrawal for them.
Requirements for the benefit
Who are eligible to receive free sanitary pads? The free distribution of sanitary pads is aimed at individuals aged between 10 and 49 who are part of the Single Registry (CadÚnico), as long as the family's monthly income does not exceed around R$ 218 per member.
Furthermore, public school students need to be registered with CadÚnico, but in this case, the family income limit per person is extended to up to half the minimum wage, which corresponds to R$ 706.
For those living on the streets, the income restriction does not apply.
Also find out how to get free prescription glasses: here! Questions about how to get free sanitary pads? Leave it below in the comments!
