In August 2025, the Ministry of Health issued an amendment to Directive No. 160/2024 Coll., on hygienic requirements for schools and childcare facilities, which will take effect from January 2026. The reform introduces a legal obligation for all toilets used by girls over the age of nine (including shared facilities) to be equipped with individually packaged menstrual products. The measure, developed in consultation with public health experts, paediatricians, school representatives, parents and NGOs, aims to improve hygiene standards, reduce school absenteeism linked to menstruation, and promote equal access to education. While many schools already provide menstrual products on a voluntary basis, the directive establishes a uniform framework nationwide.
Czechia applies one of the highest VAT rates on menstrual products in Europe, at 21%. Despite the 2023 VAT reform, these products remained classified in the highest VAT category.