Are you considering switching to reusable menstrual products similar to period liners because of their environmental and financial benefits or for another reason?
The environmental benefits of reusable protection
Reusable period covers offer a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution. Unlike disposable tampons and pads, these products can be washed and reused from cycle to cycle.
Every year, billions of disposable tampons and pads are sent to landfills around the world. These products can take hundreds of years to decompose, contributing to soil and ocean pollution. On the other hand, reusable protections have a significantly less environmental impact.
In addition to being environmentally sustainable, reusable protection can also be economically beneficial in the long term. Although their initial cost may be higher, being able to reuse them month after month can represent real savings.
Reduction of waste
Waste produced by menstruation is a major environmental problem. Reusable protections significantly reduce this waste. In fact, a woman can use up to 12,000 disposable menstrual products in her lifetime. By opting for reusable protections, we can prevent these thousands of products from ending up in landfills.
Reduced energy consumption
The manufacturing process for disposable tampons and pads consumes energy and produces greenhouse gas emissions. Reusable protections, made from durable materials and intended for long-term use, have a much lower energy footprint.
A more natural choice: The benefits for your body of reusable protections
When it comes to our health and well-being, the choice of these products can have a significant impact. Reusable protections offer a natural and healthy alternative to single-use products often containing chemicals and other unwanted substances.
They are made from sustainable materials and designed for long-term use, meaning they generate far less waste than disposable pads. Additionally, these products are generally made from natural materials like organic cotton, which is gentle on the skin and free from harsh chemicals or other substances potentially harmful to our health.
Reusable pads , including menstrual cups, washable sanitary napkins and period pants, also offer effective absorption, convenience and can often be worn longer than disposable tampons or pads. Which provides peace of mind especially during the night.
An often-mentioned drawback is the need to clean these products after each use, which may seem impractical for some people. Most agree that the health and environmental benefits far outweigh this slight inconvenience.
The different options available: Types of reusable protections and their particularities
In the world of reusable period protection , it is essential to note that there are several options depending on individual needs and preferences. Each type has distinct characteristics that we will explore.
Washable sanitary pads: These pads are similar to disposable pads in form and function, but they can be washed and reused. They are usually made from organic cotton , with wings that fold around the panties to hold them in place. They are efficient for light to medium flows.
Menstrual cups: Designed to be inserted into the vagina during menstruation, menstrual cups collect the flow rather than absorbing it. They are generally made of medical grade silicone, latex or thermoplastic elastomer. The great advantage of this option is the autonomy it offers: a cup can be worn for up to 12 hours depending on the flow.
Period panties: These are a relatively new option that offer built-in protection. Period panties have multiple absorbent layers and a waterproof layer to prevent leaks. They can be worn alone or in addition to another form of protection.
Reusable tampons: Made of cotton, they are inserted into the vagina using an applicator. Just like disposable tampons, they absorb the flow of blood. However, they are washable and can be reused. It is recommended to change them every 4 to 6 hours.
When choosing between these different protections, the important thing is to feel comfortable and safe . Reusable protection options are both respectful of the environment and women's bodies.
Impact on health: The safety of reusable protection
When it comes to women's health , reusable protection offers many advantages. These protections, ranging from washable sanitary napkins to menstrual panties to menstrual cups, have been carefully designed to preserve the delicate balance of the vagina while providing reliable protection against menstrual leakage. Several studies support that the use of reusable pads can minimize the risk of vaginal infections, including toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a serious and life-threatening condition commonly associated with tampon use.
Reusable sanitary napkins and menstrual panties are made with natural, breathable fabrics that allow good air circulation. This keeps the vaginal environment cool and dry, reducing the risk of irritation and infection. Additionally, these pads are free of irritating chemicals and fragrances often found in disposable versions.
Menstrual cups , on the other hand, are typically made from medical-grade silicone, latex, or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). These materials are hypoallergenic, meaning they are unlikely to cause allergic reactions . Additionally, menstrual cups do not disrupt the vaginal microbial balance, unlike tampons which can absorb not only menstrual blood but also natural vaginal secretions.
Use and maintenance of reusable protections
One of the biggest concerns about reusable period pads is their maintenance . It is important to know how to properly clean and maintain these products to ensure their safety and effectiveness.
- Reusable sanitary napkins and menstrual panties should be washed after each use. It is generally recommended to rinse them in cold water to remove blood, then wash them by hand or machine with a mild detergent without harsh chemicals.
- Menstrual cups should be sterilized before first use and after each menstrual cycle. This can be done by boiling them in water for 5 to 10 minutes. During menstruation days, it may be enough to rinse the cup with warm water between uses.
Conclusion
It is clear that reusable period protection is a beneficial alternative not only for our body, but also for our environment. Made from natural and sustainable materials, they offer unparalleled comfort while respecting our planet.
It is of course essential to note that the transition to reusable protection requires a period of adaptation. However, the simplicity of use and maintenance , and the variety of options available make this transition much easier than it seems.
The health benefits are undeniable, in particular thanks to a reduction in the risk of irritation and various health problems frequently linked to the use of disposable protection. These benefits become even more significant when we consider their impact on the environment, with a significant reduction in our waste and the energy demand for their production.
