11 Eco-Conscious Period Solutions for a Greener Lifestyle

Eleven Eco-Conscious Period Products for a Greener Experience

In today's world, it's important to consider the environmental impact of the products we use daily. This is particularly true for period products, which often contain a high amount of plastic and other materials that are harmful to our planet.

Did you know that disposable period products can contain up to 90% plastic? Once tossed in the trash, pads and tampons wind up in landfills before they break down into microplastics that pollute rivers and oceans. A single disposable pad can take 500 to 800 years to break down.

Fortunately, there are eco-friendly alternatives available. For instance, the DivaCup, made from 100 percent medical-grade silicone, is a menstrual cup free of chemicals, plastic, and dyes. It can be worn for up to 12 hours and is chosen based on age, flow level, and whether one has delivered a baby vaginally.

The DivaCup isn't the only option. The Saalt Soft Menstrual Cup, the Canadian-made Nixit menstrual cup, and the Intimina Ziggy Cup are all popular choices. The Intimina Ziggy Cup is dubbed as "the one you can have sex with," as it's one of the few products out there that can be worn during sex without leaks.

If underwear is more your style, Thinx Classic Leakproof Underwear are designed to wick away moisture and control odor, allowing one to live life tampon- or pad-free. Knix Leakproof Underwear is a slightly more affordable and certified chemical-free option. Period Aisle offers a gender-neutral boxer brief style with full coverage and 12-hour leak protection.

Organic pads made of organic cotton, cellulose, and veggie gum glue are compostable. However, it's important to note that most menstrual products can't be recycled.

When choosing a product, consider one's needs, lifestyle, ingredient list, and cost. Companies like Organyc, Lola, and Seventh Generation are working on developing eco-friendly tampon applicators. But it's always best to avoid products containing plastics and endocrine disruptors like phthalates.

The average menstruating human will use between 5 and 15 thousand tampons and pads in their lifetime. By making the switch to eco-friendly period products, one can not only reduce their carbon footprint but also save money in the long run. A menstrual cup that lasts years can cost as little as $20.

Reusable period products are just as sanitary as disposable ones if cared for properly. Plastic applicators are never kind to the planet and can't be recycled or composted.

By making small changes in our daily lives, we can contribute to a cleaner and greener future. So, consider making the switch to eco-friendly period products today. Your body and the planet will thank you!

Here's a list of 11 eco-friendly period products to get you started: