Menstrual hygiene is an essential aspect of women's health, and adopting sustainable menstrual products can significantly reduce environmental impact while offering long-term economic benefits. In India, where millions of disposable sanitary pads and tampons end up in landfills and water bodies annually, switching to reusable options is both practical and responsible.
Understanding Sustainable Menstrual Products
1. Menstrual Cups:
Menstrual cups are flexible, bell-shaped cups made from medical-grade silicone or rubber. Inserted into the vagina, they collect menstrual fluid instead of absorbing it. A single cup can last up to 10 years with proper care.
Environmental Benefits: Each menstrual cup can replace thousands of disposable pads or tampons, drastically reducing plastic waste and landfill burden.
Cost Savings: Though the initial cost is higher (ranging from ₹500 to ₹1500), the longevity means substantial savings over time.
Use-Case: For instance, a working woman in Mumbai might find menstrual cups ideal due to their discreet nature, long wear time (up to 12 hours), and ease of cleaning with water and mild soap.
2. Cloth Pads:
Cloth pads are washable, reusable fabric pads made from cotton or bamboo fibers. They come in various sizes and absorbencies, secured with snaps or Velcro.
Environmental Benefits: Cloth pads reduce the need for single-use plastic sanitary products, lowering landfill waste and microplastic pollution.
Cost Savings: A set of cloth pads (around 6 to 10) may cost ₹800 to ₹2000 but lasts for 2-3 years.
Use-Case: Rural or semi-urban women, who may have limited access to sanitary disposal, benefit from cloth pads that can be washed and reused easily. Brands offering organic cotton pads, similar to those from Eco Femme, provide skin-friendly options.
3. Period Underwear:
Period underwear looks like regular underwear but has built-in absorbent layers made from moisture-wicking fabrics and antimicrobial protection.
Environmental Benefits: These reduce dependence on disposable products and are machine washable, minimizing waste.
Cost Savings: Initial cost ranges from ₹1000 to ₹3000 per piece, but with proper care, they can be used for up to two years.
Use-Case: Students or athletes benefit from the comfort and leak-proof design of period underwear during active days.
Practical Tips for Switching to Sustainable Products
- Hygiene: Always wash reusable products with mild, fragrance-free detergent and dry them under sunlight to prevent bacterial growth.
- Trial Period: Give yourself a few cycles to adapt. For example, start using cloth pads on lighter days before switching fully.
- Storage: Use breathable pouches or bags for carrying cleaned or used products safely.
- Community Support: Discuss with friends or join women’s groups encouraging sustainable menstrual hygiene to gain confidence and share experiences.
Environmental Impact in India
India produces over 12 billion disposable sanitary products annually, mostly non-biodegradable. These contribute to blocked drains, soil contamination, and microplastic pollution in water bodies. Sustainable menstrual products help combat these issues by reducing waste volume and promoting circular use.
Conclusion
Sustainable menstrual products like menstrual cups, cloth pads, and period underwear offer Indian women practical, eco-friendly, and cost-effective alternatives to disposable sanitary products. Beyond environmental benefits, they encourage menstrual empowerment, reduce health risks from chemicals found in disposables, and align with India’s growing green living movement. Transitioning to these products requires awareness, patience, and community support but promises a cleaner, healthier future.
For those new to sustainable menstruation, starting with a soft cotton cloth pad or a trusted menstrual cup brand can ease the transition. Remember, your choice matters—not just for you, but for the environment and generations to come.