Plastic pollution is slowly killing our planet. The concern is not just how to stop plastic use, it is also how to replace it with eco-friendly alternatives. Of the tonnes of plastic dumped in landfills and water bodies, sanitary pads make up a significant percentage. A single woman can generate up to 125 kg of non-biodegradable waste. Research has shown that one sanitary pad can take 500-800 years to decompose, as the plastic used in making these sanitary products does not decompose.?
Most women use sanitary pads and/or tampons during their period. The problem is, they are not necessarily eco-friendly and contain plastic. So, here are a few ways to be eco-friendly even on your period, because it matters more than you think.
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Menstrual cups may have drastically altered the way we think about periods. But what exactly is a menstrual cup??
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They were originally invented in 1937 by American actress Leona Chalmers; modern menstrual cups are made of latex rubber. There are other varieties made of new materials like medical grade silicon, to allow women suffering from latex allergies, to make use of menstrual cups. This is a great alternative to typical tampons and sanitary pads, as one menstrual cup can last up to 10 years. They're also pocket-friendly, in addition to being safe for the environment.
Unlike a sanitary napkin or tampon, a menstrual cup doesn¡¯t absorb your period blood. It catches and collects it. Just before your period starts, tightly fold it and insert it into your vagina like a tampon without an applicator. Used correctly, you shouldn¡¯t feel it; it might be a tad uncomfortable the first time you use it, but eventually, you'll learn how to insert and retrieve it properly.
The cup will spring open; you may need to rotate it to adjust a bit. Let it rest against the wall of your vagina. It forms a sort of air-tight seal and prevents leakage. The blood directly flows into it. To remove it, pull the stem sticking out the bottom and pinch the base a little to release.?You don't have to throw it away after use, you can wash it with soap and water (or sterilize it using boiling water).?
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The easiest and simplest way to an Eco-friendly period is choosing organic and biodegradable sanitary products. Organic sanitary pads are made out of cotton and tend to be absorbent and comfortable to wear. It¡¯s surprising that a single pad contains at-least three plastic bags. By making this change, you are working towards the greater goal of making the environment plastic-free.?
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Cloth pads are now relatively easily available online and in local markets, and are Eco-friendly as compared to regular ones. They're also comfortable, and unlike plastic ones, they do not cause irritation. However, before you use cloth pads, you might want to do a bit of research. You have to be careful with hygiene; they need to be regularly washed (thoroughly) and dried properly before use.?
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Making your own sanitary products might also be worth a shot. Things you world need to make a DIY pad are
To make this DIY pad,
You can turn your creative heads on and make your pad according to your need. Similarly, to the cloth pads, these would be comfortable and 100% biodegradable. These are reusable as they can be washed normally.?
These tampons have been used by women for thousands of years. They're made from?all-natural sponges that come from the sea and can be used for one year, maximum. They are yellow in color and are round in shape. This is a age old method which was used by the queens in Egypt. Available on many online platforms.?
Ensure to wet the sponge before you start inserting it. It could be difficult at first but after few attempt this would be easy and smooth. Rinse the product under the tap after use leaving it to dry. This has no leakage issue as such but if you can start by using a panty liner to get protection from the leakage.?
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Reusable tampons work are a great way to eliminate the hazardous sanitary waste. They are quite appealing in terms of controlling the waste as they are reusable. These tampons are generally knitted and sewn with a long absorbent material. If you do not like the way sanitary pads works then this should be your next strong options. Although these are not majorly popular among women but the best part is that they are reusable.?
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Working towards environment is not just limited to reducing kitchen or house waste. Finding Eco-friendly methods in keeping your menstrual cycles easy and bringing the right change in the environment is the key for a better future.?
Illustration By Ranak Mann