Eco-Friendly Period Products: Comparing Pads, Pants, and Cups for a Sustainable Cycle

Did you know that twenty billion disposable menstrual products are thrown away each year in the US? Many are now looking for more sustainable options, like reusable pads, period underwear, and menstrual cups. In fact, a friend’s recommendation led me to start using period pants, and now I can’t imagine going back to single-use products. However, the variety of products available can be overwhelming when you shop.

About 1.8 billion people menstruate every month worldwide, and a recent study looked into the environmental impacts of various menstrual products. This study evaluated disposable pads and tampons, reusable pads, period underwear, and menstrual cups, measuring their effects on factors like global warming, land use, and water consumption.

The results were clear: the menstrual cup outperformed all other options in terms of sustainability, followed by period underwear and reusable pads. Disposable pads and tampons ranked as the least eco-friendly choices. Menstrual cups, made from soft silicone or rubber, can last up to ten years, making them a great investment for both your health and the planet.

Interestingly, both organic and non-organic disposable pads have significant environmental impacts. They rank high in greenhouse gas emissions largely due to the plastics used in their manufacture. Even organic cotton pads fared poorly in some impact categories. The study noted that organic farming requires more water and land than conventional methods, which is surprising to many.

The way we use and dispose of these products matters too. Disposable products create plastic waste and pollution, with many tampons and pads ending up in the ocean or blocking sewage systems. Reusable options, while requiring water and electricity to clean, generally leave a smaller footprint. According to experts, how we care for reusable products—like washing them in full loads and at lower temperatures—can further reduce their impact.

Despite their benefits, reusable products do have challenges, especially in terms of cleanliness and proper use. Experts recommend keeping two menstrual cups to switch between and replacing them when they show signs of wear. Additionally, getting educated about the right size and flow for menstrual cups is crucial for safety and comfort.

Looking ahead, there are calls for better transparency in the menstrual product industry regarding harmful chemicals used in products. In Vermont, a recent law bans “forever chemicals” in menstrual products, which shows a growing awareness of this issue. Advocates argue for regulations similar to the EU Ecolabel in the US to ensure product safety and sustainability.

For an environmentally-conscious choice, each product has trade-offs. While the menstrual cup is efficient and less wasteful, products like cotton pads and organic options still hold their appeal for some. If you’re unsure about transitioning entirely, you might consider combining different products based on the situation. Overall, making informed choices, no matter which products you use, can help reduce your environmental impact.

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