Let's talk about the .

As someone who tries to encourage talking about women’s sexuality and menstrual health, let’s breakdown the taboo about periods and discuss alternative, eco-friendly, sustainable solutions to handling “mother earth’s monthly gift”. (This is your warning for anyone who may be uncomfortable about the topic.) There are obvious reasons the products most women use for handing their period is not in the slightest way environmental conscious. For starters, the product needs to be disposed of immediately after use, the materials used are not biodegradable, and there’s a lot of pointless plastic used (applicators, wrapping, etc). Not only are they horrible for the environment, but due to the repetitive cost, they can get quite expensive quickly. According to USAToday, women spend roughly $150-$300 a year on menstrual hygiene products.

Currently, as to my knowledge, there are three options that can not only be better for the environment, but they can also save you money in the long-term (though at first it might be a slightly increase in price). These products are: Diva Cup

This little product could be compared to a tampon. It is easily inserted, cleaned using boiling water or water and soap, comes in a several sizes, and are pretty cheap to buy. I personally have not used them, mainly as I use the Period Pants (discussed below) but also not a fan of having to insert it. However, several of my friends use them, and they all swear by it, and by how much better their period experience has gotten since using them. Below is one of their testimonies to how great the diva cup has been in their own life.

“Being completely honest, I can’t even imagine of my life without the menstrual cup. About 5 years ago I was using the traditional menstrual methods, like pads and tampons. I always felt like they weren’t secure enough for me. I was scared anytime I sat or stood up. I wasn’t able to do my regular activities, and that was super stressful .With the cup I feel clean, safe, and comfortable. I always forget that I have the cup inside my body. I take it out every 9 hours to wash it with clean water and soap. Other things I love about the cup is that helps me save money and it is safe for the environment. At the beginning (like the 2 first periods), I had to practice a lot on how to place the cup ‘right’ in my body, so there was no leakage. The secret, I learned, is that once the cup is in your body you don’t feel it! The only thing that I don’t like is that I get my hands dirty anytime I take it in or out. My best advice is for every woman to try the cup for at least 4 periods. That’s enough time for you to decide if is the right menstrual method for your body.”

Period Pants (Underwear)

This is my all-time favorite product. While these come out to be a hefty price tag when you first buy them, they last for a long time, don’t require a massive clean-up process, and it feels just like you are wearing underwear. I first bought a set of these before going into the Peace Corps. Since then, I’ve never looked back. I love the ease of just putting them on, how I feel in them during the day (never worried about leaking or spotting), and how easy they are to clean afterwards. They come in different levels from light bleeding/spotting to the heavier days and even underwear for overnight bleeding. Cleaning is quite easy, you just rinse after use (with cold water and until it runs clear), throw in the wash, and hang to dry. These can even serve as a secondary precautionary measure for those using the diva cup, who want a little bit of extra protection on heavier days. There are several brands out there now where you can purchase a set (I recommend getting a least 5 pairs, 2 for heavier days, 2 for moderate, and 1 for the lighter day). I personally love the company Thinx, but there are a few other companies now on the market selling them, including Knix, Proof, and Dear Kate.

Homemade reusable/washable pads

As a cheaper option and an easy DYI project (if you want to try to make it yourself), the reusable and washable pads make for another sustainable option. These will carry the same feel of a disposable pad but can be reused. They are easy to clean, just rinse, wash, and hang to dry. These are a great option for those wanting to venture into more zero-waste options, but do not want to try the Diva Cup, nor want to spend the money for the Period Underwear. If you are keen on making it for yourself, there are several options available, via a google search, for templates. That also provides you with information regarding the type of fabric you need, how much of each fabric, and step-by-step guides on how to make it. And if you don’t want to make it yourself, you can find these products on sites such as Etsy.

I am sure to those just beginning a more zero-waste, sustainable life, might be turned off by the thought of having to mess with cleaning the products after use. I know I, myself, was off put by the idea of having to clean my underwear and make sure all the blood was out. But one thing to remember is, you can wash your hands, or get a pair of reusable kitchen gloves. Second, a period is a natural thing, and contrary to what cultural taboo states, period do not make you dirty. So, before you start running away from these solutions, just consider trying them out. I’m sure within no time those thoughts will be replaced with how much better you feel, how it’s better for the environment, and about the money you are saving.