'If men had periods sanitary products would have been free for years'

A law has taken effect in Scotland that menstrual products are made available free of charge to anyone who needs them.

The Scottish Government said it became the first in the world to legally protect the right to access free menstrual products when its Period Products Act came into force on Monday.

And under this new law, schools, colleges and universities as well as local government bodies must make products such as tampons and sanitary pads available for free in their bathrooms.

Star readers have expressed their opinions on the subject with some wondering whether England should follow in Scotland’s steps and also adopt the rule.

Ellie Snee said: “Every young girl/woman across the world should be entitled to free menstrual products, as us ladies don’t have a choice about having periods unless (you are) on some type of contraception that stops them.”

Julia Harrison said: “Yes for everyone. Limiting to just low income means young girls who are not classified by their income have access to these products regardless – women get caught short all the time and it should not matter what you put income is. Women have suffered long enough so it should be free to all.”

Another reader said: “Of course they should be free – People can get contraceptives free so why not these.”

Ashley McClean said: “All shops should have them available for customers to use discretely, with no questions asked. If a female asks for the toilet, allow her use of the toilet on-site.”

Kaye Ramsden posted: “If men had periods these would have been free (for) years everywhere.”