Fears about toxic shock syndrome, dioxin contamination, and environmental problems have led more women to prefer alternative menstrual products to conventional menstrual pads and tampons. The following products are considered to be ecologically and biologically healthier than conventional feminine hygeine products, and each option has its own positive traits and drawbacks.
Reusable Menstrual Cups
Brand Names: Keeper, Diva Cup, Moon Cup
Pros:
Reusable menstrual cups are earth-friendly because one will last years, or even decades, and they save money because you’ll most likely only need to buy one in your entire life. For most women, the cups are easy to insert and can’t be felt by the user. Because they hold almost an entire ounce of fluid (and an average woman bleeds about three ounces during her period) they can be worn for many hours. They are usually made of medical-grade silicon, so there is no risk of toxic shock syndrome, and they can easily be washed or sterilized.
Cons:
Some women have difficulty inserting reusable menstrual cups or find them to be uncomfortable. Women who are have slightly unusual builds or retroverted uteruses may find that it is difficult to insert a menstrual cup without it either leaking or poking.
Disposable Menstrual Cups
Brand Names: Instead
Pros:
Green only in that they need to be changed and thrown away less frequently than conventional tampons or pads, disposable menstrual cups are an ideal option for many women. One of the best traits of disposable menstrual cups is that they can block menstrual flow during sex, and they are the only feminine hygeine products that safely accomplishes this task. Because they collect rather than absorb, they carry little to no risk of toxic shock syndrome.
Cons:
Disposable menstrual cups are difficult to insert for many women, because they need to cover the cervix, which is generally high in the vagina. They are also likely to leak if a woman has a tilted uterus or cervix (about a third of all women do). Disposable cups are also only moderately green because they do need to be thrown away; it is not safe to reuse them.
Cloth Menstrual Pads
Brand Names: Lunapads, Gladrags
Pros:
Cloth pads are oldest form of menstrual control and the source of the phrase “on the rag.” These tried-and-true pieces of fabric are often available in different sizes, shapes, colors, and fabric types. Many companies use fleece, bamboo, hemp, silk, or organic cotton fabric to suit the needs and preferences of cloth-pad users. Many commercial cloth pads are made by work-at-home-moms and disabled home entrepreneurs, this benefits both our planet and our society.
Cons:
Cloth pads often cause rashes, especially if they are worn for too long or are not washed in very hot water. Very special care needs to be taken to keep cloth menstrual products sterile, especially following any form of vaginal infection. Cloth products also have an ecological drawback in that they require water to wash them.
Sea Sponge Tampons
Brand Names: Sea Pearls
Pros:
Made from natural sponges, sea sponge tampons are very earth-friendly and contain no dioxins or synthetic chemicals. They are very inexpensive compared to other menstrual products, both alternative and conventional, and are less bulky than cloth menstrual pads. Because they contain no dioxin, many women believe that they are healthier than conventional tampons.
Cons:
Sea sponge tampons are difficult to sterilize and may built up an unpleasant odor or become colonized with bacteria, even following sterilization. If washed using detergents or soaps, they may upset vaginal pH balance and lead to other complications, including yeast infections. They may also be difficult to insert and may leak, especially if their absorbency lessens with time and use.
If you are unsure of which earth-friendly menstrual products are right for you, consult your gynecologist. She can make recommendations based on your personal situation, medical history, and body type. Always follow manufacturers’ guidelines when using any menstrual product to prevent injury or infection.
