Users Switch to Multi-Use Menstrual Products

• Multi-use menstrual products reduce the amount of waste.
• They are popular due to convenience and cost-effectiveness.
• The investment in such products can pay off in the short term.

Multi-use menstrual products are becoming increasingly popular, as they are an alternative to single-use pads and tampons, which are often described as wasteful. Products like menstrual discs, silicone cups, and periodic underwear can be used for several years. They are economical and help reduce the amount of waste. The popularity of such alternatives has grown during the pandemic, when it became easier to experiment with menstrual products in the comfort of one's home.

Selin Chelyak, who switched to menstrual discs six months ago, notes that it has always been a matter of ecology and waste. She used tampons and pads for many years, as these were traditional options, but when she saw how her partner switched to discs, she decided to try them.

The Problem of Single-Use Products

Currently, in the USA, it is estimated that there are about 12 million single-use pads and 7 million tampons in landfills. Most of the pads are made from plastic and can take up to 800 years to decompose. Experts in the field of women's health indicate that single-use products are not better; they are just the first options that come to mind for many women.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Switching

The most popular option is the menstrual cup, which is inserted just like a tampon. Discs are inserted deeper, which does not interfere with the vaginal contact. Both options can hold a significantly larger amount than tampons, and can remain inside for up to 12 hours. The risk of toxic shock syndrome, associated with tampons, is generally lower when using cups and discs.

Disadvantages include the fact that for proper use, some skill is required, and improper use can lead to inconveniences. Cups and discs need to be cleaned regularly, which can be inconvenient if you find yourself at work or in a public restroom.

The Cost of Products

Menstrual cups and discs cost between $15 and $40, and can be purchased online or at pharmacies. Multi-use products may help save money in the long term. Chelyak calculated that she used about 20 tampons a month, which cost her around $4-5. After switching to multi-use products, she could save on expenses for several months.

For those who prioritize pads, there is an option for periodic underwear, which looks like regular underwear with an additional absorbent layer. Some women use them as an additional option along with cups, discs, or tampons, depending on the intensity of their menstruation.

Tags: Ecology