The Safe Alternatives to Tampons

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The recent alarming news about tampons containing harmful substances such as lead and arsenic has created quite a stir (and rightly so). It is shocking that something menstruators have heavily relied upon each month could be dangerous to their health, but truthfully, tampons have never been safe. All tampons contain plastics – even the string in some cases – plus they are bleached to achieve that fresh white look and it has been previously reported that they could well also contain carcinogenic chemicals such as glyphosate amongst other things. The fact that these were ever sold as being safe to be placed inside a vagina is quite mind-boggling. Luckily, there are safe options available, ones that are good for your vaginal health as well as good for the planet – reusables. So, let’s take a close look at the sustainable tampon alternatives that could well change and improve your period forever…

Reusable Tampons

What Are Reusable Tampons?

Reusable tampons are an eco-friendly alternative to single-use tampons. They are typically made from organic cotton or other natural fibres and can be washed and reused multiple times. Like disposable tampons, they are designed to absorb menstrual blood but without the added chemicals and environmental impact. Most types can be worn for around 4-6 hours (always check the directions as this can vary). Your reusable tampon will need to be sterilised before use and washed in a washing machine after use. These aren’t suitable for overnight wear.

Benefits of Reusable Tampons

• Chemical-Free: Made from natural and organic materials, reusable tampons are free from harmful chemicals, bleaches and synthetic fibres.
• Cost-Effective: Although the initial cost may be higher, reusable tampons can be used for up to 10 years providing long-term savings compared to purchasing disposable tampons every month.
• More comfortable Periods: It has been reported by many menstruators that reusable period products have reduced cramping, and led to lighter and shorter periods. This is down to the lack of chemicals.
• Eco-Friendly: Reusable tampons reduce both waste and resources.
• Comfort: Many users find that the natural fibres are more comfortable and do not lead to irritations.

I haven’t used a reusable tampon before but I have seen some good reviews of these and you can find them being sold in many online ethical stores such as Babipur.

Menstrual Cups

What Are Menstrual Cups?

Menstrual cups are bell-shaped devices made from medical-grade silicone, rubber or latex. They work very similarly to a tampon as they are inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood. The main difference being that you use, wash, sterilise and reuse this product rather than throw it away. These cups can in fact hold much more fluid than tampons and can also be worn for up to 12 hours. There is no risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TTS) with a menstrual cup and once you find the right one for you, they are extremely comfortable and very convenient.

Benefits of Menstrual Cups

• Chemical-Free: Unlike tampons, menstrual cups do not contain bleach, fragrances or harmful chemicals.
• Cost-Effective: With proper care, a single cup can last up to 10 years, saving you money in the long run.
• Eco-Friendly: By switching to a menstrual cup, you can significantly reduce your menstrual product waste.
• Better Vaginal Health: Menstrual cups do not disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina, reducing the risk of infections and irritation.
• More comfortable Periods: It has been reported by many menstruators that reusable period products have reduced cramping, and led to lighter and shorter periods. This is down to the lack of chemicals.
• Swimming: They can be worn for swimming with no risk of leaks.

Recommended Menstrual Cup

I have tried a few cups over the years and I can highly recommend the Ruby Cup. This cup is soft, easy to insert, you cannot feel it once it is in and is very comfortable even when worn overnight. You can find out much more in my Ruby Cup Review here and if you’d like to learn more about menstrual cups I have a comprehensive cup guide here.

Menstrual Discs

What Are Menstrual Discs?

Menstrual discs are flexible, flat discs that are inserted into the vagina and sit at the base of the cervix where they will collect menstrual blood. Like the cup, these can be worn for up to 12 hours.

Benefits of Menstrual Discs

• Long-Wear: Like menstrual cups, discs can be worn for an extended period, making them ideal for heavy-flow days.
• Comfort: Many users find discs more comfortable and less intrusive than tampons or cups.
• Better Vaginal Health: Discs do not disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina, reducing the risk of infections and irritation.
• Easy Removal: Whereas the cup relies on suction to stay in place, the disc doesn’t making it easier and more comfortable to remove.
• More comfortable Periods: It has been reported by many mentruators that reusable period products have reduced cramping, and led to lighter and shorter periods. This is down to the lack of chemicals.
• Intercourse-Friendly: You can have mess-free sex while wearing a menstrual disc.
• Cost-Effective: With good care, menstrual discs can last you for up to 10 years saving you money in the long-run.

While I haven’t personally tried a menstrual disc yet (I have ordered one so stay tuned), I’ve heard great things from other users who love the comfort and convenience they offer.

Period Pants

What Are Period Pants?

Period pants are specially designed underwear that are worn during your period to absorb your menstrual blood. They come in various styles and absorbency levels, providing a comfortable and leak-proof experience.

Benefits of Period Pants

• Ease of Use: Simply wear them like regular underwear; no need for insertion.
• Comfort: Made from soft, breathable fabrics that keep you dry and comfortable all day.
• Better Vaginal Health: Period Pants do not disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina, reducing the risk of infections and irritation.
• More comfortable Periods: It has been reported by many menstruators that reusable period products have reduced cramping, and led to lighter and shorter periods. This is down to the lack of chemicals.
• Environmentally Friendly: Reusable and washable, reducing menstrual waste significantly.
• Cost-Effective: Pants that are well looked after can last you anywhere from 2-10 years so they will save you money in the long term.

Recommended Period Pants

I have tried quite a few period pants over the years but WUKA period pants continue to be my favourite. You can find out more about these in my detailed review here.

You May Also Like:

• How To Wash Period Pants
• Busting Myths – Do Period Pants Smell?
• Busting Myths – Are Period Pants Bulky?
• Busting Myths – Do Period Pants Leak?

Period Swimwear

In addition to regular period pants, there are also period swim pants and period swimming costumes now available, allowing you to swim comfortably and confidently during your lighter period days. I have also reviewed the WUKA swim pant here.

Cloth Sanitary Pads (CSP)

What Are Cloth Sanitary Pads?

Cloth sanitary pads (often abbreviated as CSP) are a reusable version of disposable pads. These come in various sizes, absorbency levels and designs and are made from all natural materials.

Benefits of Cloth Sanitary Pads

• Chemical-Free: Made from natural fabrics, CSPs are free from bleaches and chemicals.
• More comfortable Periods: It has been reported by many menstruators that reusable period products have reduced cramping, and led to lighter and shorter periods. This is down to the lack of chemicals.
• Better Vaginal Health: Cloth Sanitary Pads do not disrupt the natural pH balance of the vagina, reducing the risk of infections and irritation.
• Comfortable to wear: No rustling plastic, no overheating (due to plastics), no sticky tabs leaving a mess, no sticking to you. Just a breathable, comfortable pad that you won’t notice you are wearing.
• Cost-Effective: Reusable for years, offering significant savings over time.
• Eco-Friendly: Reduces the amount of disposable menstrual product waste.

Cloth sanitary pads were my first plastic-free period product and are very easy to get on with because they are so similar to their disposable counterparts. All you need to get your head around is washing and reusing. There are many fantastic small businesses around making and selling these such as these on Etsy. You can find out more about making this switch in my blog here.

As you can see, all of these reusable alternatives provide numerous benefits over traditional tampons, making them worth considering for your next cycle.

*This post contains affiliate links which means I will earn a small commission if you purchase via them. This does not affect how much you pay or your shopping experience. For further information please refer to my disclosure page.

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