01

Why does menstruation make girls miss school?

In Colombia, about 43% of girls miss school during their periods due to lack of menstrual products and stigma. This causes discomfort, absenteeism, and reduces participation and learning over time.

02

What is The Period Uniform?

It’s an initiative adding reusable period underwear to school supply lists in Colombia, ensuring girls can manage periods confidently, affordably, and without missing school.

03

Why period underwear instead of tampons or pads?

Period underwear is comfortable, non-invasive for young girls, reliable, reduces household costs, and causes less waste compared to tampons or pads.

04

Who develops the underwear?

Somos Martina, Colombia’s leading intimate care brand, designs and produces the underwear with a focus on dignity, sustainability, and ending period poverty.

05

How much does it cost?

With a 20% student discount, it costs about the same as regular underwear, making high-quality menstrual care affordable for more families.

06

Where can I get it?

Somos Martina period underwear is available online and in selected school supply stores across Colombia.

07

What if a family cannot afford it?

Families needing support can reach out to organizations like UNICEF, Oxfam, Tierra Grata, or similar local programs for resources and assistance.

08

How many Somos Martina underwears do i need? 

A good starting point is 3 pairs to cover a full cycle comfortably without requiring extra laundry.

09

How does absorbent underwear work?

It absorbs menstrual blood, wicks moisture, controls odor, and prevents leaks. Depending on the style, absorption ranges from ~10 ml (light flow) to ~40 ml (super absorbent) per pair.

10

How long can I wear it, and will it handle heavy flow?

You can wear it 8–12 hours with the right absorbency level, including on heavy-flow days.

11

How do you wash and care for the underwear?

Rinse in cold water, wash gently by hand or on a delicate machine cycle with mild soap, and air dry. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners.

12

Are the materials safe and durable for children?

Yes. They use hypoallergenic, breathable fabrics that meet international safety standards with no harmful chemicals. With proper care, they last about 2–3 years. The absorbent part is 100% organic cotton, with a seamless microfiber outer layer.

13

How do parents and schools take part?

Schools can add The Period Uniform to supply lists so period underwear becomes a standard item for students. Parents support by talking about periods openly, purchasing the underwear when possible, and encouraging school adoption so girls feel prepared and supported.

14

How does The Period Uniform differ from other programs?

Unlike short-term donations, The Period Uniform is integrated into school supply systems, creating long-term access, normalization, and dignity for girls.

15

Who supports the initiative and where can I find resources?

The initiative is supported by schools, local educational authorities, parents, NGOs like Poderosas, and partners working on girls’ education and menstrual health. Families and schools can access educational resources through these partner networks.