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BackgroundPeriod product insecurity is an emerging form of material hardship with significant implications for mental health. Previous research has shown that financial challenges related to accessing material basic needs hygiene products can increase stress and anxiety.ObjectivesThis study aims to examine the relationship between frequencies of period product insecurity, parenting stress, and mental health outcomes in caregivers with young children.DesignThe study uses cross-sectional survey data from participants (N=541) who menstruated in the past year and were caregivers of children under age four. Data were collected during completion of an online survey from March - April 2024.MethodParticipants reported experiences with period product insecurity and completed standardized measures of anxiety and depression (GAD-2 and PHQ-2). Logistic regression models, adjusting for sociodemographic factors, estimated the association between period product insecurity frequency, parenting stress, and mental health outcomes.ResultsAmong participants, 39.5% (n=214) endorsed period product insecurity at least once in the past year. The majority of caregivers with young children who experienced period product insecurity monthly reported symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (68.4%, n=156) or major depressive disorder (72.3%, n=112). Fewer caregivers who did not experience period product insecurity reported symptoms (Generalized Anxiety Disorder 27.0%, n=87; major depressive disorder 27.1%, n=87). More than half of all caregivers "completely agree" or "agree" that they felt stressed or anxious about the responsibilities that come with parenting/caretaking (57.7%, n=308). Monthly experiences of period product insecurity, and stress about parenting responsibilities, increased risk of symptoms of anxiety and depression compared with no period product insecurity (p<.001).ConclusionFuture research is needed to strengthen the evidence base to better understand the causal pathways between period product insecurity and caregiver mental health. In the meantime, interventions and policy measures could be explored to integrate both period product distribution and parenting supports within broader caregiver support systems.