UNDERSTANDING THE PERCEPTION OF MENSTRUAL POVERTY IN HOMELESS WOMEN

Abstract

Brazil faces deep social inequalities that impact millions of individuals, especially homeless women, who are subjected to conditions of heightened vulnerability. This study aimed to understand the perceptions and biopsychosocial repercussions of menstrual poverty in women living on the streets. A descriptive and exploratory cross-sectional study was carried out, using a qualitative approach with semi-structured interviews. Four homeless women were interviewed, selected through an active search in Goiânia/GO, between April and June 2024. The interviews were analyzed according to the Grounded Theory. The analysis of the interviews revealed four explanatory categories: (1) History before and after arriving on the streets; (2) Challenges in relation to living on the streets and health care; (3) Challenges to menstrual hygiene and coping with menstrual symptoms; and (4) Perception of the consequences of living and menstruating on the streets for health: the vision of the future. Menstrual poverty is identified as a serious public health problem that affects the well-being of homeless women, with direct implications for physical and mental health. The urgent need for public policies that guarantee access to hygiene products and health care is reinforced, in addition to promoting the visibility and dignity of this group. The implementation of comprehensive support and assistance programs is crucial to mitigate the repercussions of menstrual poverty and other vulnerabilities faced by these women, ensuring their dignity and quality of life.