Everything You Need To Know About Switching To Reusable Menstrual Products
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If you’ve heard about reusable sanitary products but are unsure about whether you want to make the switch, we have the information you need. Reusable menstrual products include tried and tested methods like cloth pads, period panties, and menstrual cups. Besides being better for the environment, these products contain zero chemicals and are safe for even the most sensitive of skin. They’re also extremely economical and are more easily available these days as awareness about them has increased. So let’s take a look at some of the products that we can switch to and how each one can benefit us in a different way:
1. Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are classified as a feminine hygiene device that can be inserted into the birth canal and collects blood until it is time for disposal. It is an internal form of a menstrual hygiene product and can be removed, washed, and reinserted. Most menstrual cups capacities range between 15ml to 35ml and can collect larger volumes of fluid rather than absorbing it like disposable menstrual hygiene products do. They can be used for a duration of 10 years and are the most economical option out of all other reusable products.
Switching to a menstrual cup will allow you to live a more waste-free life and is also healthier for your lady parts as it does not disrupt your pH balance or cause rashes. The menstrual cup sits right below your cervix and collects the blood that flows through your cervix. The cup can also give you a better understanding of your body and help you track your menstrual blood’s consistency and color if you want to do so for health reasons. The only downside to using a menstrual cup is that there is a slight learning curve, and the removal process can be a little tricky to get a hold of at first. There are tonnes of cups available online that you can purchase, both foreign and Indian, made at various price points.
2. Period Panties
Period panties are a good option for people who are uncomfortable with using products that require internal application like menstrual cups and sponges. All you need to do is wear them like your regular panties and get on with your day. As more and more period panty companies keep cropping up, we truly are spoiled for choice. They can be washed and reused for at least 2-3 years and have more capacity than products like disposable sanitary pads and tampons. If you’re worried about the bulkiness of the period panties, then fear not. Many brands even produce thong versions of period panties (with lesser-capacity).
The only downside to using period panties is that you have to have an understanding of your menstrual flow and be comfortable with the sight of your own blood. If you’re switching from tampons or other internal devices, then you might be uncomfortable with the sensation of your flow. Still, there is rarely any feeling of excessive moisture or squishiness like with sanitary pads. You also need to have different types of period panties for different days of your flow.
3. Reusable Cloth Pads
You might be wondering why we’re asking you to go back to the olden days of using a piece of cloth to absorb your flow but hear us out. Reusable cloth pads have come a long way since our grandmother’s time of boiling rags on the stove. They are easily washable and while most would advise washing them by hand (for hygiene and longevity purposes), some are even machine washable (after you’ve gotten rid of all the blood). You can also soak them in water for two to three hours before you wash them as well. Reusable cloth pads are useful even if you’ve given birth vaginally and are going through postpartum bleeding. They can hold more fluid and are a lot more comfortable than the mesh panties that hospitals usually give women to wear after they have delivered.
One issue that you might face when switching to reusable cloth pads is storage. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to change your reusable cloth pad, you will have to carry a separate, hygienic storage case to store your used pad to wash later. They also take a long time to dry, so you’ll have to have a couple of spares lying around. While they are rarely prone to leaking, we would advise that you wear darker underclothes/pants/skirts during the initial learning period. Just to be on the safer side.
At the end of the day, switching to disposable sanitary products is an economical, ecological, and practical choice and will benefit you greatly in the long run. Don’t just take our word for it! If not millions of testimonies online, there are thousands that prove that reusable menstrual products are the first step we can take towards a greener, chemical, and plastic-free future. Do let us know your thoughts on this article in the comment section below.
