Happy Menstrual Hygiene day! It is refreshing to witness the stigma surrounding Menstruation slowly dissolving. Menstruation involves quite a lot: cramps, PMS, cravings, menstrual products and hygiene. On average a woman will menstruate for 2,400 days in her lifetime and use 5,000 to 15,000 menstrual products. Multiply that times the number of women in the world, the number of products used is staggering. Plastic is a major ingredient in the production of most menstrual hygiene products. These plastics contain small doses of toxic chemicals that eventually affect women. Therefore, it is crucial that more women are open to eco-friendly menstrual hygiene that is safe for our bodies, affordable, sustainable and safer for the environment. Here are several eco-friendly menstrual hygiene products that you should consider taking up.
Silicone menstrual cups
Menstrual cups are safe and environmentally friendly when used well. Silicone menstrual cups are safer to use and do not harm the environment since silicone changes to silica when decomposed. Investing in a good menstrual cup in the right size will help you save money and the environment. The cup can be used for up to 4 years with proper care. However, menstrual cups come with a few risks and thus it is important to do your own research to determine if this could be an option for you. These cups are a good option for girls and women in low-income areas and they can be purchased here in Kenya.
Re-usable pads and period underwear – eco-friendly menstrual hygiene
The re-usable pad consists of a shell and several panty liners. The panty liner stays in the shell when in use and it is replaced with a clean one and washed after use. Period underwear uses the same concept but the whole pad is part of the underwear. Both products use organic cotton that is biodegradable. These products are also a good option for girls and women in low-income areas. However, the advantage t locally made and thus affordable.
Organic pads and tampons – eco-friendly menstrual hygiene
Women who have tried organic pads and tampons have reported fewer cramps and less irritation. These products are made of pure organic cotton which easily decomposes. Unfortunately, experts argue they are not really special in any way since no scientific study has been conducted to prove the effectiveness of organic pads and tampons. Additionally, they still cannot prevent you from getting Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). These are the least pocket and environmentally friendly on the list as they require constant buying. Buy them here in Kenya.
Let us choose safer menstrual hygiene products.
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