Japan is seeing a growing movement towards the provision of free menstrual products, often referred to as "stocking" in local terms. A growing number of institutions ranging from schools to businesses and public spaces are incorporating this change, driven by a mix of growing awareness about menstrual hygiene and advocacy for gender equality. The timing of this shift in policy has not been specified.

In Japan, menstrual health continues to be a topic of some taboo, but this is a strong sign of change. Equitable availability of sanitary needs speaks directly to the country's progressive steps towards eliminating gender inequality and promoting public health. Issues surrounding menstruation, such as period poverty and shame, are receiving increased attention in Japan, and these new policies reflect a societal shift towards addressing these concerns.

In the US and EU, the availability of free menstrual products is also on the rise. Schools, universities, and many workplaces have implemented similar policies, while some countries, like Scotland, have even legislated for free provision of period products across the whole country. That said, menstrual equity is a global issue, and progress varies widely across different countries and regions.