In September: Menstrual Underwear and Cups Reimbursed at 60% for Under 26s in Pharmacies

This marks the end of a long legislative saga that has weighed heavily on the morale of associations and the finances of young people. Starting in September 2026, nearly three years after the adoption of the decree, reusable menstrual products will officially be reimbursed by Health Insurance for individuals under 26 and beneficiaries of the complementary health solidarity scheme.

An Administrative Saga Lasting Three Years

It all began in December 2023. At that time, Parliament adopted the 2024 Social Security budget, incorporating this strong promise: to make sustainable menstrual products more accessible. However, the project quickly turned into an endless wait.

In January 2026, pressure intensified with the publication of an open letter addressed to the government by several leaders in the sector. They denounced a public health and social emergency that could no longer wait. In response to this mobilization, Minister Aurore Bergé had to acknowledge an unacceptable delay in the initially planned timeline. It was not until Thursday, April 16, 2026, that the decree was finally signed and presented during an official visit to the Paris Cité University campus.

A Boost for Those Under 26 and the Most Vulnerable

So, what exactly changes for menstruating individuals? Social Security will cover 60% of the cost of reusable products, namely menstrual underwear and menstrual cups. This initiative targets two priority groups: insured individuals under 26, regardless of income, and beneficiaries of the complementary health solidarity scheme (C2S), regardless of age.

An important point to note for your organization: purchases must be made in pharmacies. While this may seem restrictive for those accustomed to online shopping or supermarkets, the government justifies this choice by the need to ensure quality medical advice.

A Giant Step for the Dignity and Health of Young People

With this decision, France becomes the second European country, after Scotland in 2022, to implement a national reimbursement system for reusable products. In total, nearly 6.7 million people are affected by this advancement.

This is a major victory for public health that we hope will pave the way for further discussions on universal access to these essential products. A significant advancement that should alleviate the financial burden for many households starting next school year.

Also read: Our guide to the best menstrual underwear in 2026 (8 tested)