From stigma to solutions: a new report

We begin 2025 with research, diving deeper into our CODE RED data and focusing on the scale and impacts of heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) in the Netherlands.?As a follow-up to last year’s research, our new CODE RED report analyzes national fieldwork gathered by the researchers at Opinium to highlight the many consequences of HMB.

But first:

Our report establishes the current scale of the problem in the Netherlands, looking more closely at just how (and how much) HMB impacts people and their healthcare. The report also provides contextual analysis and recommendations for needs-based, practical and systemic changes to support those affected by HMB.

Among the CODE RED research findings

Significant financial, social and health impacts

HMB leads to higher expenses for menstrual products and medication, and if unaddressed, as shown in multiple studies, results in significant additional costs in health care for those affected and government. As shown in our report (link below), HMB disrupts daily routines and impacts participation, resulting in missed opportunities at work, school and socially. HMB also impacts physical and mental health, and can reinforce stigma-induced isolation and shame.

Despite the Dutch medical guidelines in place for diagnosis and treatment of HMB, multiple recent research studies confirm misconceptions and lack of awareness among healthcare providers further hamper access to the care people need.

To address these challenges, we call for:

• Increasing awareness: Breaking the silence around HMB by normalizing conversations about menstruation in schools, workplaces, and media.
• Changing policy: Advocating for government support to improve access to menstrual products and needed healthcare services in the Netherlands.
• Improving training for medical providers: Ensuring healthcare providers in the Netherlands are equipped to recognize and treat HMB with empathy and expertise.
• Sharing practical resources: Our report includes an appendix with a user-friendly information sheet to help individuals navigate conversations with medical professionals.

Neighborhood Feminists believes that open, inclusive conversations about menstruation are the foundation of needed change. Help us spread the word. Together, we can ensure that more people have access to the care, understanding, and support they deserve.

To find out more and share the findings, download the full CODE RED report or the 2-page summary. As always, both are also available in Dutch.