Women with disabilities are worried they could lose access to essential period care as the NDIS transitions to new rules.

Menstrual items have been defined as “lifestyle-related”, along with vapes, gambling and gaming PCs, in lists outlining what NDIS funding can and cannot be spent on during the transition.

But advocates insist products like adaptable period underwear and tampon inserters are necessary to ensure those with physical and intellectual disabilities can manage bleeding without hurting themselves.