Recently, open conversations about menstruation and the initiatives to end the taboo around the topic have evolved significantly. Creating safe spaces and having open discussions about the subject not only empowers everyone who has periods to speak up about their struggles and preferences but also embraces menstruation for what it is: a natural part of life. Every person who menstruates has gone through the annoying and messy process of trying to find a pad or tampon that best fits her needs and dealing, often alone and in silence, with everything else that happens during this period of the month. 

The truth is that even though people who menstruate have been on this Earth for as long as those who do not, menstrual care has been ignored and seen as something dirty or unmentionable to many. Innovation is crucial for the destiny of our planet, and one innovation focus that has stood out lately in menstruation is reusable period care products. Periods don’t have to be uncomfortable or harmful to you or our environment; this is where menstrual reusable items play a big part. Designed to replace or supplement traditional pads and tampons, menstrual undies, reusable pads, and menstrual cups or disks are made of reliable and comfortable materials, offering an eco-friendly alternative to everyday menstruation items. 

In today’s article, we’ll delve into what makes sustainable period products such a game-changer alternative to current products in the period product market. 

Inclusivity and Accessibility

Inclusion and accessibility are solid pillars of sustainability. It is crucial for all people to feel comfortable and included in living their most comfortable and authentic lives. Due to the wide range of sizes, styles, and absorbency options, reusable pads, underwear, and cups cater to people with various body types and menstruation needs. Some feel uncomfortable utilising tampons or need help finding pads that provide enough absorbency for their flow levels. Additionally, with period care products getting increasingly expensive (thanks to the tampon tax and inflation), only some have the financial means to purchase those items. However, financial constraints aren’t the only burden people endure during their periods; many still need more private spaces to wash and change their period car products during their cycles. Every person with a cycle has the right of having to deal with their period with dignity and comfort, and reusable period products might be a start in the right direction. 

Sustainability

The production of single-use menstrual products annually emits around 245.000 tonnes of CO2 and can take up to 500 years to decompose. Pads are estimated to be made of up to 90% plastic, directly contributing to the plastic epidemic, often made worse by its incorrect disposal. Due to their materials, flushed pads and tampons do not break down in the presence of liquids and can easily clog your toilet and end up in rivers and oceans. 

Tampons with applicators are often the preferred alternative in many parts of the world. These applicators contribute to even more plastic pollution, as they frequently find their way into the ocean, where sea animals often mistake it for food. A study by the Life Cycle Initiative found that even if used for just one cycle (one month), a menstrual cup has lower environmental impacts than 20 single-use pads or tampons. Compared to tampons, single-use and reusable pads, reusable menstrual cups were found to have the lowest potential environmental impact. However, when taking into consideration economic and social aspects, reusable pads were found to be the preferred option.

Comfort and Convenience

Periods should be comfortable. Our bodies go through so much already during this time that we should not have to worry if our pads or tampons will put us in a difficult situation or hold up. The times of asking friends to check if our pads have leaked are done. The best part of trying new reusable products is that you can find one that best fits your needs. Reusable underwear is excellent for those who need to feel comfortable and dry all day. Their soft and breathable fabrics prioritise comfort and reduce the chaffing and irritation many experience when using pads or tampons. Menstrual cups, an extremely convenient choice, can be worn for up to 12 hours, offering days with fewer bathroom interruptions. If you prefer using pads, cloth pads allow you to wash and reuse them for years easily.

Choosing which reusable menstrual care product to use is a personal decision; nonetheless, it’s the best decision you can make for a better future. 

What is your favourite reusable menstrual product? Stay tuned for more articles on the topic.