In a groundbreaking initiative, schools in the Šiauliai district have installed 29 dispensers for free menstrual hygiene products in girls' restrooms. This decision stems from a recognition that menstrual hygiene is not merely a matter of health, but also a response to the stress and shame that many young girls experience. The availability of these products aims to uphold the dignity of the students and mitigate the anxiety surrounding menstruation, ensuring that girls have access to necessary hygiene items at school, just like soap and toilet paper.

The project addresses three critical issues. First, it aids in stress management for young girls, whose menstrual cycles may still be irregular. Flooded with unexpected situations, having access to menstrual products conveniently available in school reduces the chances of shame and the need to leave class to go home. Secondly, the initiative enhances privacy for girls who previously had to seek help from health professionals or teachers when lacking necessary supplies. The placement of dispensers in restrooms provides a discreet option that promises assistance without additional inquiries. Finally, the project seeks to reduce the stigma associated with menstruation by making essential hygiene products readily accessible in public spaces.

This move not only supports the physical health of students but also promotes a cultural shift in how menstruation is discussed and addressed within educational settings. By normalizing the provision of menstrual products as standard provisions in schools, it underscores the importance of girls' health and well-being, paving the way for future initiatives that prioritize the dignity and comfort of all students.