Core Insights - The article highlights the dilemma faced by low-income women in affording sanitary pads, leading to a choice between expensive, reliable products and cheap, potentially harmful alternatives [1][6][24] - Recent discussions around sanitary products have intensified following the exposure of production irregularities, prompting celebrity Huang Zitao to enter the market with a new sanitary pad brand [1][4] - The average annual expenditure for a woman on disposable sanitary pads is estimated at 324 yuan, which remains a significant burden for many families [4][6] Group 1: Market Dynamics - Huang Zitao's initiative includes the acquisition of a sanitary pad factory and the introduction of a product certified for medical use, with promotional trials offered at an extremely low price [1][4] - The demand for low-cost sanitary pads is evident, with bulk products available at prices as low as 30 yuan for 200 pieces, indicating a significant market gap [1][4] - The sanitary pad market is characterized by a wide price range, with single-use pads priced between 0.51 yuan and 2.69 yuan, while bulk options can be as low as 0.15 yuan [19][21] Group 2: Socioeconomic Factors - The concept of "menstrual poverty" is not only an economic issue but also a systemic problem involving access to sanitary products, hygiene facilities, and education [24][26] - Many women, despite having financial means, face "conceptual poverty," where societal attitudes and family dynamics restrict their ability to purchase necessary products [13][18] - The lack of education regarding menstrual health and hygiene perpetuates poor practices, as seen in the experiences shared by women from different generations [10][18] Group 3: Industry Challenges - The sanitary pad industry is noted for its high profit margins, with average gross margins reaching 45%, leading to significant markups from production to retail [21][23] - The cost structure of sanitary pads includes manufacturing costs, marketing expenses, and taxes, with high sales costs significantly impacting final prices [23][26] - There is a call for policy changes to reduce taxes on sanitary products, as seen in other countries that have successfully implemented such measures [26][28]