Catalan pharmacies to begin free distribution of reusable menstrual products next week

The free distribution of reusable menstrual products in pharmacies in Catalonia will begin next Monday, March 4, the Equality Minister, Tània Verge, announced on Thursday. 

The products can be collected by scanning a QR code that can be found in the 'La Meva Salut' app. 

Users can choose between menstrual cups, cloth pads and absorbent underwear, which will be provided free of charge. 

Approximately 2.5 million people are estimated to benefit from the measure, which has an initial cost of €8.5 million. 

Of the 3,272 pharmacies in Catalonia, the government claims that almost all will offer the menstrual products. 

If any of the three available products run out due to demand, the organizers say it will be back in stock within a maximum of 48 hours. 

The initiative has completed technical testing at 13 different distribution points across Catalonia and is ready to roll out.

Pharmacists have also been trained to help women choose the products that work best for them.