Over the last 7 months or so, We’ve been getting more into zero waste and reducing the plastic in our life. We are not quite there yet, but every little bit helps. Today I’ve got one for the ladies. A little information on how to have plastic-free periods. Not only can you save the planet from a TON of plastic and waste, but you stop exposing your lady parts to all sorts of harmful chemicals.
Lets talk about periods.
Did you know that the conventional menstrual pad contains just as much plastic as 4 plastic carrier bags? The average woman uses 11,000 tampons in her lifetime. Together with pads and panty liners they make up 200,000 tonnes of waste a year. Those that are thrown away end up in landfills where they can last longer than the person who used them. Some are even flushed down the toilet and cause blockages or they end up in the rivers and oceans. Of course, we can’t stop ourselves from having periods, but we can use other products that don’t produce this much waste.
The most popular choice for a zero waste period is the menstrual cup. Menstrual cups are becoming much more mainstream and popular. It’s a small flexible cup made of medical grade silicone. Instead of absorbing blood, it catches it. This eliminates the fear of TSS. I was kindly gifted one by Kind Organic to test and try.
So, how does it work?
You fold it and insert it into your vagina. It has very small holes at the top that help create a suction. The cup will unfold naturally, but you may need to twist it slightly with the stem to make sure it has completely unfolded. It will rest against your vaginal walls. This action helps to reduce cramps – yeah. You read that right.
Now, depending on your personal flow and cup, on average the cup can hold two super tampons worth of blood. It’s recommended to change it every 4-8 hours. I empty it when I wake up and before I go to bed. I am yet to experience any leaks. There are normally 2 different sizes you can choose from. Size 1 and size 2. Because I have had a baby, I got a size 2 as recommended.
My experience..
When I first went to use the cup I was terrified. Legit, petrified. Not exactly sure why, but I was. I had ready many articles on them and seen many people give them a go and love them. It was a little uncomfortable at first, but after a few tries, I managed to get it into position and I’ve never looked back. The cup is soft, springy and easy to clean. When inserted properly it didn’t leak and I couldn’t feel it. It did take some time to get used to it, but that’s the same with all cups for first time users. The instructions say to turn the cup 360 degrees once inserted to ensure proper positioning. If you struggle to grip it like I did at first, push down on your pelvic floor just enough to be able to grip the base of the cup. You should then be able to rotate it.
Once you find a fold that works for you, and you become more confident with inserting it. its super easy! I am now completely converted and carry it everywhere just in case. It comes in a cute little drawstring bag making it easy to pop in any bag.
Period Proof Underwear
When you think of period proof underwear, you might think of boring grandma underwear that resembles a diaper. Luckily for you, there are some great brands out there that make fashionable and comfortable period proof underwear you should 100% try. My absolute favorite are from a brand called Modibodi. These pants are leak free (hold up to 2 tampons worth of blood), very hygienic, eco-friendly (hooray!) and machine washable!
I tried the Modibodi period pants on their own for three months and I have to say I am blown away by this product. I am completely sold. Modibodi pants are incredibly comfortable, they really hold a lot more blood than I expected. I was a bit worried about leakages, especially during the night, but they kept me completely dry. I also felt a lot more hygienic wearing these period pants compared to wearing a pad, because the blood gets soaked into the pants very quickly and you don’t really feel it anymore. They are also much more comfortable compared to pads that rub against and irritate your skin.
Benefits of using a reusable period options
They are better for your body
Tampons absorb 35% of your natural moisture causing a pH imbalance. They also leave behind fibers and can cause Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). If they aren’t organic, they will release harmful chemicals into your blood stream.
They are better for the environment.
One cup can last 10 – 20 years. 1 pair of period pants can last up to 2 years. This means you’re diverting between 1000 – 2,880 tampons and pads from the landfill. Just think of all the resources you’re saving from the creation of the products?
You are saving money.
A one time £20-£50 purchase that will last you years Over the £5-£10 spent on every period. That’s over £1,000 savings.
Other things I love, as does Liam – never having to run to the store at midnight; because, my period unexpectedly started and I’ve run out of tampons!
I would love to hear what you think about a more sustainable period. Do you use reusable period protection?
