Out with the old and in with the new pad alternatives, for a better comfortable use and now environmentally sustainable.
Moving On To A Better & Sustainable Future with Menstrual Products
You can certainly think of a long list of inconveniences that come with being on your period, like irritation, odour, and period stains on your underwear when wearing sanitary pads.
Also, did you know that pads cannot be recycled? Twenty billion disposable pads and tampons end up in landfills every year and about 90% of plastic is used to make a lot of menstruation products. It’s about time to switch and choose these other sustainable options, here are some alternatives to menstrual pad:
5 Pad Alternatives To Choose From
1. Cloth Pad
As you might have guessed, a cloth pad is simply the more sustainable version of a disposable pad. A cloth pad can be worn for up to six hours, and you can just toss it in the washing machine after use. They are comfortable, environment friendly and are lighter to carry. It is also one of the healthiest alternatives as it eliminates the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
2. Period Panties
Non-reusable Panties
There are two types of period panties: The reusable and non-reusable period panties. The non-reusable ones can be found in drug stores around in Malaysia and you can use it during a heavy flow.
Reusable Panties
As for the reusable one, it’s basically like regular underwear but with a special layer that helps prevent blood from seeping through. It’s a bit expensive but it will definitely help you to save financially in the long run. Plus they are reusable, washable and long-lasting and come in a wide range of styles, sizes, fabrics and holding capacity.
3. Non-Applicator Cotton Tampons
If you’d like to give tampons a try, pick a non-applicator tampon made out of 100% organic cotton instead of their regular tampons.
Since less packaging is required for non-applicator cotton tampons, they are affordable and environmentally friendly. They are also simpler to carry due to their smaller size. Also, they can avoid Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), which is a condition that frequently affects women who use tampons.
4. Menstrual Cup
A lot of people may think that the menstrual cup is a new discovery but actually it was founded and patented in 1937 by actress Leona Chalmers. The cup is getting recognition recently for its eco-friendly feature for being able to be used for about 10 years.
The small, foldable funnel-shaped cup is made of silicone, rubber, or latex. The cup is inserted into the vagina to capture the period flow. While it may seem like a terrifying option, you’ll find that it is not only comfortable but also quite gentle on the body when you get used to it. You can wear it for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow and it can be reused again.
5. Menstrual Disc
Similar to menstrual cups, menstrual discs are inserted in the body to collect period blood. However, there are some big differences as to both of these.
Menstrual discs, as the name implies, are shaped like discs rather than cups, but what sets them apart is actually the placement. Menstrual discs are placed at the vaginal fornix, which is further into the vaginal canal than the menstrual cup, which is where a tampon also rests. This is the main difference since it permits discs to be worn during sexual activity without putting one’s safety in danger while still restricting blood flow.
It offers up to 12 hours of protection and after that,menstrual discs must be disposed of and should not be reused.
Switching to something new can be scary and uncomfortable if you’re used to wearing sanitary pads, but trust me, in the long haul, you’ll be contributing for a greater good for the environment.
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