Periods are a natural part of life, but for millions across the UK, they also come with a significant and often overlooked financial burden. New research from Clue — a globally recognised period tracking app with over 100 million downloads — has revealed the true cost of menstruation, and the numbers are eye-opening.
Dubbed the “Cost of Bleeding”, the study highlights how everyday expenses tied to periods can quietly accumulate over time, placing pressure on finances, wellbeing, and even careers.
The True Cost of Periods in the UK
According to the research, people who menstruate in the UK spend an average of £41 per month managing their cycle. Over a typical 38-year menstrual lifetime, that adds up to a staggering £20,359.
While period products such as pads and tampons account for around £18 per month, they represent only part of the total cost. Hidden expenses — from pain relief to replacing stained clothing — significantly drive up the overall figure.
Hidden Expenses Add Up Fast
The study reveals that menstruation-related costs extend far beyond the basics:
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£142 per year is spent on symptom relief, including painkillers, supplements, and hot water bottles — totalling £5,389 over a lifetime
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27% of respondents pay for private healthcare for conditions like PCOS and endometriosis
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£126 annually goes toward replacing stained clothing, with many also replacing bedding — adding up to £1,295 across a lifetime
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79% spend money on emergency supplies, such as last-minute purchases or transport after leaks
These findings highlight how the “Cost of Bleeding” is not just about buying products — it’s about managing the full experience of menstruation.
Period Poverty Still a Major Issue
Despite growing awareness, period poverty remains a serious concern in the UK:
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37% of respondents have struggled to afford period products
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39% have cut back on essentials like food, bills, or transport to afford them
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Nearly 40% have resorted to using alternatives such as tissues or wipes due to cost
These statistics underline the urgent need for better accessibility and support.
The Impact on Work and Mental Health
The financial burden of menstruation doesn’t just affect wallets — it impacts daily life:
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44% say their period has interfered with their ability to work
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41% have missed a full or partial day of work in the past year
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36% report stress and anxiety linked directly to the cost of managing their period
With 75% saying the financial strain has worsened over the past five years, the ongoing cost-of-living crisis is only intensifying the issue.
Campaign for Free Period Products
In response, Clue has teamed up with media personality and women’s health advocate Ashley James to push for change. Together, they are campaigning for free period products in England, aiming to tackle inequality and improve access.
Ashley James said:
“It is shocking that… having a period comes with such a heavy price tag. This isn’t just about tampons — it’s about the hidden costs and the mental toll every single month.”
The campaign is calling on the UK Government to take action and ensure period products are treated as essential items, not luxuries.
What Needs to Change?
Public support for reform is strong:
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82% want free period products in schools, universities, and workplaces
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67% believe the cost of menstruation isn’t discussed enough
The findings point to a clear demand for systemic change — from policy shifts to greater awareness.
How to Get Involved
Clue is encouraging people across the UK to support the movement by signing its petition for free period products.
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Sign the petition via Change.org
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Visit Clue’s official website to learn more and access a free 12-month Clue Plus subscription for petition signatories
Clue Plus offers personalised health insights, advanced tracking features, and exclusive partner discounts — part of the brand’s broader mission to improve health equity.
The “Cost of Bleeding” report shines a light on an issue that affects millions but is still not openly discussed enough. With costs exceeding £20,000 over a lifetime, it’s clear that menstruation is not just a health matter — it’s an economic one too.
As conversations around women’s health continue to evolve, addressing period poverty and accessibility could be a crucial step toward a more equitable future.
