Since the end of 2022, you can obtain menstrual products from the SchoolSupply vending machines at all locations for €0.15 (these minimal transaction costs are necessary because otherwise the machine cannot dispense).

From now on, free tampons and sanitary pads are also available at various UvA locations. Dispensers filled with these products are installed at some busy and centrally located toilets.

The dispensers where you can get free sanitary pads and tampons are located at the following toilet groups:

• Science Park: A0 and G0
• Roeterseiland campus: B0 and H0
• Oudemanhuispoort: DT.08
• University library: D.040H

Dispensers with both tampons and sanitary pads

Dispensers with free menstrual products have been installed at the busiest toilet groups on each campus. The dispensers are deliberately placed outside the toilet area to ensure they are extra visible and accessible to everyone. In addition to accessibility, it is also important that the products are comfortable for everyone and that there is a choice between tampons and sanitary pads. Therefore, the UvA waited to install the dispensers until the supplier could provide a dispenser that offers both options.

Menstrual equality

The desire for improved menstrual equality on campus has long been felt among students and staff at the UvA. The Central Student Council (CSR) is also advocating for this. The UvA supports the idea that menstrual products are a basic necessity and that neither financial status nor gender should be a barrier to access to these products.

Fun fact: CWS, the supplier of the dispensers, donates menstrual products to the poverty fund for each dispenser they install.