World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2022: The Best and Safe Alternative of Period Pads

World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2022: For maximum Females and Vulva owners when period arrives, they  reach out for traditional menstural pad...just as women have done for ages. A single sanitary pad can take 500-800 years to biodegrade because it is made of plastic, which is not only non-biodegradable but also hazardous to health.

But there are several alternatives of pads to consider if you’re looking for other ways to get through that time of the month. This Menstrual Month lets us know more about menstrual hygiene and products which will make ‘that time of month’ hassle free and easy breezy. 

Why is Menstrual Hygiene Day Celebrated?

Every year on May 28, the world celebrates Menstrual Hygiene Day (MH Day). The day emphasises the importance of menstrual care and raises awareness about the social issues that women face during menstruation, as well as those who lack access to sanitary products.

Why are Sanitary Pads Harmful?

According to a new study, most sanitary pads contain volatile organic compounds and phthalates, and with continued, long-term exposure, a substantial amount of these harmful chemicals could be absorbed via the genitals causing harm to health. 

The major drawback of using a sanitary pad is irritation caused by prolonged use. Not changing the pads on a regular basis may also result in skin rashes. Along with that, Pad users are always at risk of allergies caused by the chemicals found in them. Pads are also non-biodegradable, posing a threat to the environment.

Alternative of Menstrual Pads

Here are some of the alternatives of Menstrual Pads which are safe, environment friendly and even lessen the hassle and feeling of itchiness and wetness.  

1. Cloth pads

Cloth pads work in the same way as disposable pads, but the former are made of cotton layers wrapped in a waterproof fabric that can be washed and reused. They are more comfortable, better for the environment, and easier to transport. It is also one of the safest options because it eliminates the possibility of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).

2. Tampons 

These are cylindrical inserts that fit inside your vagina, whereas pads are absorbent linings that adhere to your underwear. Tampons can be the  excellent choice since they are small, nearly invisible, and swim-safe — and they can also be difficult to insert and may cause vaginal irritation or toxic shock syndrome.

3. Menstrual cup

A Menstrual cup is a small, flexible funnel-shaped piece of silicone and cup t o catch your flow as you insert it into the vagina. It is reusable and gives leak-free protection for up to 12 hours. One cup is said to last about ten years, making it both economical and environmentally friendly. Menstrual cups may appear messy and difficult to insert at first, but once you get the hang of them, they are not only comfy but also gentle on the body.

4. Period panties

Can it get any better than undies with built-in period protection that can also be worn as regular underwear? This alternative is super comfy, user and environmentally friendly, and is constructed with multiple layers to prevent leakage. As a result, it is the one of the best option for women with heavy flow. They are reusable, washable, and long-lasting, and are available in a variety of styles, sizes, fabrics, and holding capacities.

5. Menstrual sponges

These natural renewable resources, also called Sponge Tampons or Period Sponges, could be used as an alternative to tampons. They are ocean-sourced natural sea sponges that can be reused for up to six months. They do not contain any chemicals, dyes, chlorine, fragrance, bleach, or synthetic materials.

6. Menstrual disc

The disc, like a menstrual cup, is injected directly into the vagina to collect period blood, but its shape and placement differ. The vaginal fornix, which is deeper into the vaginal canal than cups and tampons, is where the menstrual disc is located. It protects for up to 12 hours and holds the equivalent of five tampons. Inserting the disc may appear difficult at first, but it is much safer and more reliable once you get the hang of it.