In the journey towards embracing more environmentally friendly practices, it's crucial that we consider every aspect of our lives for sustainability - including period care. Traditional period products can contribute substantially to waste generation. Thankfully, with the growing availability of eco-friendly alternatives, putting together a sustainable period kit is not just possible, but also a simple and empowering choice. Here's a guide to lead you towards a greener, more earth-friendly period.
Before delving into the 'how,' let's address the 'why.' Over her lifetime, an average woman might use up to 11,000 disposable, non-biodegradable menstrual products, many of which contain plastics that could take hundreds of years to decompose. Switching to sustainable period products not only reduces this environmental impact but also minimizes your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals often found in traditional period products.
The centerpiece of any eco-friendly period kit is the menstrual cup. These reusable alternatives to pads and tampons are made from materials like medical-grade silicone, rubber, latex, or elastomer. With appropriate care, a menstrual cup can serve you well for up to a decade. Worn inside the vagina, it collects rather than absorbs menstrual fluid.
These reusable pads made from absorbent fabric function much like disposable pads, with wings that fasten securely around your underwear. Available in various designs and materials, they offer differing levels of absorbency and can be machine washed and reused for several years.
Period underwear, designed with absorbent layers to prevent leaks, can be used independently on lighter flow days or as an additional protective layer on heavier days. Available in a range of styles and absorbencies, period underwear is reusable after a simple wash.
If you're not quite ready to transition fully to menstrual cups, cloth pads, or period underwear, consider switching to organic cotton tampons or pads as a stepping stone. These alternatives are free from harmful chemicals and typically come packaged in biodegradable materials.
To manage cramps and discomfort during your period, replace traditional stick-on heat patches with Sundaze Heated Shorts. Not only are these shorts more effective at providing soothing heat, but they're also far more secure — no more worrying about patches falling off. An added bonus is that these shorts are machine washable and maintain their efficacy for up to 40 washes, further reducing waste.
For freshening up and cleaning during your period, opt for biodegradable wipes. Made from materials like bamboo or cotton, these wipes are a more sustainable choice, decomposing much more quickly than conventional wipes.
Switching to a sustainable period kit is a gradual process, and it's perfectly okay to ease into it at your own pace. Experiment with different products to find what best suits your body and lifestyle. Even small steps towards sustainability can have a significant impact in reducing waste and fostering a healthier planet.
Our periods are a natural part of life. Therefore, our approach to managing them should be just as natural, respectful to our bodies, and mindful of the world we live in. By choosing a sustainable period kit, we contribute to a greener future, one cycle at a time.
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