Sanitary napkins are the first choice for many women during periods, primarily in the urban areas. They are available at medical as well as cosmetic stores, which makes them the most accessible. In lieu of comfort, women ignore the long-term negative impact of sanitary pads to their health as well the environment. Not many women know that sanitary pads are made of plastic, which is not only non-biodegradable but also harmful to human health. It takes about 500–800 years for a single sanitary pad to degrade. Thus, there is a dire need for switching to healthy and environment-friendly alternatives from traditional pads. Here are a few options to consider.
Tampons
A tampon is inserted into the vagina to soak period blood. Though they are not any more eco-friendly than pads, tampons are easy to use as they are smaller in size and can be inserted easily. Another thing is that these are not as messy as sanitary pads. Experts suggest that tampons should be changed every four to six hours depending on your period flow.
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Menstrual Cup
Menstrual cups are also meant to be inserted into the vagina, where it collects blood. Since it has the capacity to hold more blood, it is preferred by some, over sanitary napkins or tampons. One menstrual cup can be used for three to five years, hence, menstrual cups are an eco-friendly option. It may seem messy at first with tricky insertion techniques, but once you get a hold of it, it is not only comfortable but is also very gentle on the body.
Menstrual Sponges
These are natural and renewable menstrual hygiene resources that can be utilised as an alternative to tampons. These are also called sea sponge tampons or period sponges. They are ocean-derived, all-natural sea sponges that can be reused for up to six months. They are free of synthetic materials, chemicals, bleach, chlorine, scent, and dyes.
Cloth Pads
Cloth pads have a similar mechanism to disposable ones, but they are layers of cotton that are covered with a washable, reusable. and waterproof fabric. They are lightweight, cosy, and environmentally friendly. It also removes the possibility of toxic shock syndrome, making it one of the healthiest choices.
Menstrual Discs
Another option that functions with insertion into the vagina are discs. They do not, however, rest at the fornix of the vaginal canal, instead moving further into the canal than the cups do. One disc can store enough fluid to fill five tampons' worth of protection for up to twelve hours. Gaining control of the insertion process could be a little challenging at first, but with practice it can become simpler and more practical.
Ms. Monica Bindra, Founder & CEO of Laiqa, said “Before, the hygiene market had limited options for women. They were trying to find a comfortable pad. But in past years the Indian hygiene market came up with new options like menstrual cups and discs that are comfortable and sustainable. These products have seen an increase in demand as women are moving to more sustainable and environment-friendly period products. Along with it, there are other reasons that attract women to try period cups or discs. One of the reasons is women are becoming eco-conscious. Another reason is menstrual or period cups are more cost-friendly than pads. One can easily buy a good quality menstrual cup at a low price that could last for a good five to ten years. While using a period cup, a woman can swim, run, and exercise so comfortably which is not possible with pads. Overall, the response is positive. Women are willing to try alternative products for comfortable periods.”
Image credits- freepik