'Hidden' poverty affecting thousands of women and girls

Almost 65 per cent of people have struggled to afford period products, one women's charity says. (Dan Peled/AAP PHOTOS)

Women are having to choose whether they will buy period hygiene products or other essentials due to the rising cost of living biting household budgets.

Almost 65 per cent of people have struggled to afford period products, with many resorting to old towels, toilet paper and, in some cases, bread, according to research by women's charity Share the Dignity.