By Glyniss
Mon, 24th Aug, 2020
We've all heard the advice to let go of toxic people around you. Now, it's time to take a step further and say goodbye to harmful period products. Not only will it improve your life, but it'll also keep your vagina and mother nature happy.
If I haven't convinced you yet with the opening statement, here's why you should consider using non-toxic, sustainable period products:
1. Show yourself some love, and do it for your body.
Our body has a way of absorbing both beneficial and harmful chemicals. It could be through your stomach, your skin or even your vagina. Whether you're a pad or a tampon user, period products are coming into close contact with your body every month, so it's essential to know what goes on or inside your body.
Have you ever looked at what goes into your period products?
Traditional pads and tampons are made from cotton, which is usually treated with nasty pesticides and bleach for whiter, 'cleaner' appearance. In some cases, they are not even 100% cotton but are infused with other synthetic materials which result in discomfort for the user. Some brands also go to the extent to add fragrances. While these steps in production may help brands lower the cost or market their product, they certainly do not benefit your vaginal health.
You may not feel like these toxic period products are doing you any harm at this very moment, but they will affect your body in the long run. There is certainly no harm in taking care of yourself, so make a switch to healthy period care options like organic pads and tampons.
2. You'll be lending a helping hand to mother nature.
Credits: https://www.instagram.com/thetrashycollection/
As you've already learnt, many traditional pads and tampons are infused with plastic. The applicator that helps you insert a tampon is made from plastic. The thin sheet that wraps your pad is probably plastic. And you know what else is plastic? The packaging that you buy your pads in is made from plastic.
We all know how harmful plastic is for our environment. It takes years for it to break down in our landfill, and more than often, it ends up in our ocean. Our used period pads and products from maybe years back could still exist or be floating around in the Pacific Ocean.
The best way to earn the eco-warrior badge would be to switch to a reusable option like a menstrual cup. If you are not ready yet, don't worry! Look out for organic period products that are packaged in recyclable or compostable materials. They are a more sustainable option, as opposed to traditional pads and tampons.
3. You'll possibly have extra cash for that other thing you've been eyeing.
It's especially true if you're thinking of switching to reusable period products such as the menstrual cup. Typically, depending on your flow, you'll probably be spending some money every month on period care. Using a menstrual cup can help you save up since you'll only need to buy one which will last you up to 10 years. There's no need to run to the pharmacy every month to stock up on pads or tampons.
Sometimes, changes can be scary but don't worry, take a deep breath and give it a try. I hope these reasons have convinced you to consider going for a healthier period care alternative. Do it for the environment, do it for your wallet but most importantly, do it for you.