France has taken a significant step in the fight against period poverty. As of October 1, certain menstrual underwear and menstrual cups are now eligible for full or partial reimbursement by the national health insurance system, known as l’Assurance-maladie.
The measure, voted as part of the 2024 Social Security Financing Act, went through a lengthy legislative process before its modalities were defined in a decree published in the Journal officiel on August 6. However, not all menstruating individuals are eligible for the reimbursement.
Who Qualifies for Reimbursement
The program targets two specific groups, representing approximately 6.7 million potential beneficiaries:
- People under 26: They can receive coverage between 55% and 65% from the national health insurance, depending on the product chosen. Their complementary health insurance may cover the remaining cost.
- Recipients of the Complémentaire santé solidaire (C2S): Low-income individuals covered by this supplementary health insurance can receive 100% reimbursement, regardless of their age.
Strict Quality Requirements
Not all menstrual underwear and cups on the market qualify for reimbursement. The August 6 decree outlines specific requirements that manufacturers must meet.
Menstrual underwear must consist of at least three layers: a draining layer in contact with the skin made of organic cotton or lyocell, an absorbent layer, and a waterproof anti-leak layer.
For a manufacturer to be listed for reimbursement, it must offer at least one product with an absorption capacity of at least 20 ml. If this condition is met, the manufacturer may offer other products with different absorption capacities, but these must be at least 12 ml.
Manufacturers must also demonstrate that their underwear withstands a minimum of 52 washes at a temperature of at least 30°C. They must offer at least eight different sizes for each referenced menstrual underwear product and at least two sizes for menstrual cups.
Practical Details and Limitations
Reimbursement is limited to two products per year, dispensed in pharmacies. Beneficiaries must visit a pharmacy with their carte Vitale. No prescription or prior authorization is required.
Currently, the reimbursement covers menstrual underwear sold by brands including Elia, Saforelle, Biocodex, Petites Choses, Claripharm, and Sisters Republic. A non-exhaustive list is available on the Assurance-maladie website and is expected to be updated.
Reimbursed products must not exceed certain price limits: up to 19 euros per unit for menstrual underwear and up to 15.80 euros for menstrual cups.
A Broader Debate
The move comes amid growing international discussion about menstrual equity. Similar initiatives have been introduced in various countries, while debates continue over proposals such as menstrual leave, which some critics argue could inadvertently disadvantage women in the workplace.
