Gendered economic and health challenges in Latin America

Recent reports highlight the intersection of gender and economic challenges in Latin America, specifically regarding menstrual health and general financial stability.

In Mexico and Ecuador, research indicates that menstrual health management imposes significant social and economic burdens. In Mexico, 65% of surveyed girls reported feeling shame or the need to hide their periods at school. In Ecuador, the economic cost is substantial, with nearly 20% of surveyed adolescents spending more than $20 per month on menstrual management. Experts note that the total cost includes not only sanitary products but also analgesics, hygiene supplies, water, and soap.

Further data from Mexico’s National Survey on Financial Health reveals that women experience higher levels of financial stress than men, with 42% reporting high stress compared to 31% of men. Women in Mexico also represent a disproportionate share of minimum wage earners and monthly household expenditures, with 62% reporting they have no money remaining at the end of the month. This has contributed to what researchers describe as a “toxic financial cycle” of consumption and debt.