Years ago, there were no plastic tampons or pads, and people would use latex menstrual cups. Today the latex has been replaced by medical-grade materials, or you can choose to use washable pads (they do have microfiber backing so launder in a microplastic catcher). Or if you prefer disposables, go for organic brands free from chlorine bleach.
Always dispose of feminine care items in the bin, never down the loo (even if biodegradable). Avoid use of tampons or menstrual cups for at least 8 weeks after birth, talk to your midwife. If you have any issues, buy an at-home vaginal screening test (use with an organic tampon). Send it off and get results online, to give PDF to your GP.
Ruby Cup is made from medical-grade silicone and for each one sold, another is sold to a young woman in need. After around 5 months, it pays for itself and lasts around 10 years.
This menstrual cup steriliser is ideal to use rather than shocking our husband or boyfriend, and boiling it in a pot in the kitchen! It sterilises simply by pouring boiling water into the silicone area and closing for 5 minutes. Fits most mesntrual cups and includes a discreet bag.
organic cotton pads & tampons
Grace & Green make menstrual pads from organic cotton or bamboo, so they are more comfortable and cooler in hot weather than plastic pads. The organic cotton pads have winged protection to protect from leaks and maximum absorbency (day or night). Secured in place with natural adhesive and an ultra-soft topcoat and core, the pad wrapper can be composted. The panty liners are ideal for light flow or mild incontinence. The same company makes organic tampons (with or without applicators).
TOTM Workplace Scheme enables companies to sign up to provide free organic pads for female employees (and university students), to help those on low incomes. The exclusive recycled workplace boxes display ingredients, absorbency and usage, with bulk orders and easy online ordering. You can also opt to also offer certified organic tampons.
a reusable tampon applicator
20% of women have a naturally retroverted uterus (it tilts back to the spine) so an applicator may be difficult to use, so check beforehand). If you use them, Dame is the world’s first reusable tampon applicator. It’s ideal for travel and can last over 3000 uses, so you can buy (cheaper and smaller) non-applicator tampons. Made from medical-grade materials resistant to most bacteria and viruses, it’s designed to medical standards and easy to use. Just rinse with cold water and dry, then pop back in the s torage pouch. You can clean it with bathroom tissue in public bathrooms until you rinse later on, due to Saniconcentrates™.
