Provision of free period products
The Northern Health and Social Care Trust provides free period products at its hospital sites.
This is now a statutory requirement under Section 5 of the Period Products (Free Provision) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022. The Department of Health has directed health and social care trusts to provide free period products on their premises, in accordance with the Period Products (Free Provision) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.
Dispensers will provide tampons and sanitary pads free of charge.
The Trust has installed dispensers on the following sites:
- Antrim Area Hospital
- Causeway Hospital
- Robinson Hospital
- Dalriada Hospital
- Mid Ulster Hospital
- Moyle Hospital
- Holywell Hospital
- Whiteabbey Hospital
- Ballymena Health and Care Centre
Health information on period products
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a rare but life-threatening condition caused by an infection. It can happen when using a tampon or a menstrual cup, or from an infected wound.
Symptoms develop quickly and you should seek urgent treatment by attending your nearest emergency department, or by calling 999.
Symptoms
- a high temperature
- muscle aches
- a raised skin rash that feels like sandpaper
- flu-like symptoms
How to prevent Toxic Shock Syndrome
- Wash hands and follow the instructions when using tampons and menstrual cups.
- Do not leave them in longer than recommended.
- Keep cuts and burns clean, and look out for signs of infection, such as a rash, swelling or pain.
