Just for the ladies
Let’s be real—menstruating once a month sucks. Between debilitating cramps, mood swings that make you feel like a ticking time bomb, and the sheer inconvenience of it all, it doesn’t help to think about how much waste we produce every cycle.
What kind of waste? I’m talking about all the plastic from disposable pads and tampons. It adds up fast, and it’s terrible for the environment. That’s why I decided to test out some sustainable alternatives that not only help reduce waste but also save money in the long run. Spoiler alert: They’ve been life-changing.
Making the Switch
Here’s how I transitioned: I used up the disposable products I already had and kept a few “just in case” pads and tampons for emergencies (which, by the way, I haven’t touched since). Then, I headed to my local co-op and bought a couple of sustainable products that have completely changed how I manage my cycle.
1. Reusable Pads
Okay, I know what you’re thinking—Reusable pads? Seriously? But hear me out: They’re amazing.
Reusable pads come in all sorts of cute styles, shapes, and sizes to fit your needs. They’re super easy to use, and cleaning them isn’t as intimidating as it sounds. I chose Glad Rags, and they’ve been a game-changer. Made from soft, handmade cotton, they’re gentle on the skin (no chafing!) and come in eco-friendly packaging.
While they’re a bit of an investment upfront, they’re much cheaper in the long run because they can last up to five years with proper care. What’s even better? These pads pair perfectly with my next recommendation.
2. Menstrual Cups
Let me just say this: I will NEVER use tampons again. Ever. The menstrual cup blew my mind.
I use The Honey Pot cup, which comes in two sizes—one for people who haven’t given birth and a larger size for those who have. Before using it for the first time, you’ll need to sterilize the cup by boiling it. I do this after every cycle so it’s ready to go for the next one.
Here’s the game-changer: the cup can stay in for 12 hours. That’s right, 12. No more worrying about toxic shock syndrome (TSS), although you do need to empty it before it overflows. It’s made of medical-grade silicone, free from latex and phthalates, and it’s sustainable. One cup can last a whole year or longer.
My First Experience with the Cup
I won’t lie—the first time I used the cup was… an experience. I’m terrible at following instructions, and of course, I recycled the directions before I even tried it. My first attempt at removing the cup felt like I was pulling my insides out. (Yeah, it hurt like a M***** F*****.)
After some online research, I realized I’d been doing it all wrong. Turns out, inserting and removing a menstrual cup takes a little practice and a lot of getting personal with your vagina.
Here’s what worked for me:
- Inserting the cup: Fold the cup (there are a few methods, but I prefer the “C-fold”) and push it in using two fingers. Once it’s in place, it will expand and suction to your vaginal walls. You’ll probably feel it pop into position.
- Removing the cup: Trust me, this is important. When it’s time to take it out, relax and pretend you’re giving birth. (Seriously!) Use your pelvic muscles to push it down slightly, then grab the base of the cup with your fingers and pinch it to release the suction. Slowly pull it out and drain it into the toilet.
After each use, rinse it thoroughly and clean it with a cup-safe cleanser like The Honey Pot’s foaming wash.
Why I’ll Never Go Back
It’s been six months since I made the switch, and I haven’t looked back. With the cup, I can confidently sleep, wear thongs, do yoga, and go about my day without a second thought. While I keep reusable pads on hand for backup, I rarely need them now that I’m comfortable with the cup.
The best part? I’m saving money, reducing waste, and feeling good about doing my part to help the planet.
If you’re considering making the switch, I hope this helps! It’s a small change that makes a big difference for the environment—and for your peace of mind.
Feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or your own experiences. Let’s normalize talking about menstruation and finding solutions that work for us and the planet.