Reusable menstrual products have less of an environmental impact than disposable pads, which contribute significantly to landfill waste and ocean pollution. Made of organic cotton for maximum wear-resistance and longevity of use.
However, there can be obstacles to using reusable menstrual products and in this article we explore some of these barriers to inform future advocacy work regarding them.
Cost
Menstrual products can be costly, so switching to reusable options may seem prohibitive at first. But once the initial investment has been made, reusable options save money in the long run while simultaneously decreasing plastic waste in landfills and waterways.
Disposable protective materials require substantial amounts of energy, water and non-renewable fossil fuels in their production. Furthermore, their decomposition takes decades or centuries – potentially polluting soils, groundwater or even drinking water sources in their wake.
Switching to reusables can free women and girls living with period poverty from worrying each month about the cost of menstrual products. By donating the funds from your initial investment to organizations like Dignity Period through WashU’s Go Green for the Red program, this will enable those in need to purchase kits of reusable pads (while supplies last!). This is particularly important for those without access to showers and toilets within their homes as well as those experiencing homelessness.
Environment
Reusable menstrual products produce less waste than disposable pads and tampons, offering an ideal way for those mindful of their environmental footprint to manage their period. Every year thousands of disposable pads end up in landfill sites causing pollution. Furthermore, single-use feminine hygiene products contain plastics as well as harmful chemicals which could negatively impact health.
Women and girls can feel comfortable changing reusable pads when out in public since these quiet and discreet products offer them privacy during this private experience. Reusable pads may also serve as an important support mechanism in cultures where menstruation is stigmatized.
Though participants had favorable opinions of reusable products, some highlighted barriers to uptake including knowledge and information needs, upfront costs, difficulty using menstrual cups and difficulties changing reusable pads outside the home. These obstacles may be addressed by increasing educational quality as well as providing accessible facilities for exchanging them.
Health
Women and girls who menstruate require reliable and safe methods of managing their bleeding. Non-reusable products like tampons or pads may seem convenient, but these carry health risks as well as having an environmental impact [1].
Reusable menstrual products offer an advantage over disposable ones: multiple uses before being washed. Their materials also are less likely to leak or cause rashes; meaning women can wear these items while swimming, exercising or attending school without being concerned for their safety.
Participants were asked to identify their top three features they desired in a menstrual product, prioritizing comfort, effectiveness (protection from leakage) and cost over ease of changing or cost. Many participants felt uncomfortable using reusable products and were overwhelmed by cleaning requirements; to address these barriers effectively it is vital that women and girls receive appropriate training, support, resources and expertise when trying out these new options.
Comfort
Cloth menstrual products save both money and the environment by decreasing landfill waste. Disposable pads and tampons contain toxic chemicals which leach into the ground when placed in landfills, contributing to marine life loss and water pollution. By switching over to cloth menstrual products you save both money and reduce environmental impact.
Reusable cotton pads are soft, comfortable and won’t irritate sensitive skin, while being more absorbent than disposable pads.
Menstrual cups offer an effective alternative to pads and tampons. Contoured like a funnel-shape, menstrual cups can easily fit inside vagina to collect period blood; their absorbency makes them less likely to leak than traditional tampons, helping reduce wasteful landfill landfilling of period products. With more people opting for menstrual cups over pads/tampons/nappons.
