Our menstrual cycles are a fact of life. In our early teens we were taken aside by our moms, aunts, big sisters, teachers or friends. We were told the facts of life and given a box of pads and/or tampons to start our journey into womanhood.
After that, dealing with our cycles month after month eventually became routine. Most of us buy whatever product we were either first introduced to, or whichever one is on sale. Not much thought is given to it, other than, “I hope it doesn’t interfere with my next beach holiday”.
So why consider changing now, especially to an all-natural feminine product? Here are a few good reasons, and a few great product suggestions.
Your Health
Pads and tampons are made from cotton, synthetic rayon, and other synthetic fibers. Cotton has been called “the world’s dirtiest crop.” It’s heavily sprayed with pesticides, and along with pesticide residues, the material these products are made with are bleached with chlorine dioxide, creating dioxin as a byproduct. Add to that anti-bacterial agents, fragrances and many other chemicals, and you get quite a toxic soup that we are exposing our lady parts to on a monthly basis.
These contaminants are carcinogens, endocrine disruptors, and allergens. The tissues of the vagina are sensitive, and these chemicals can cause real problems. In fact, in women with irritations in this area, one of the main treatment options is to change to an all-natural product. After that, the problem often resolves with no further treatment.
The Environment
According to The National Women’s Health Network, 12 billion pads and 7 million tampons are dumped into U.S. landfills each year. That’s A LOT of garbage, not to mention to chemicals used in the growing and manufacturing processes.
Cost
The average woman will spend an average of $150 per year on feminine hygiene products. That’s well over $5000 in a lifetime–no small potatoes. Choosing a re-useable option cuts that down considerably. For example a Diva Cup costs $45 and you can use it for a decade or even longer.
All Natural Options
Disposable, organic pads and tampons
Although this option is not less expensive nor does it solve the environment problem entirely, they are MUCH healthier for your lady bits. The organic, unbleached cotton eliminates the exposure to toxins. Natracare products are available for purchase at The Pantry at StoneTree Clinic.
This option is awesome for your health, the environment, and your pocket book. The diva cup, or a menstrual cup, is a silicon cup that can be used over and over again. It sits in the vagina and is emptied at regular intervals throughout your cycle. It takes a little getting used to but is absolutely worth the effort. Available for purchase at The Pantry at StoneTree Clinic.
This option also hits all three reasons for making the change to all natural products. Just like reusable, cloth baby diapers, you can make or buy reusable cloth menstrual pads.
Again, this reusable option is beneficial in all three areas. This absorbent sponge is placed in the vagina like a tampon, removed at regular intervals, cleaned, and re-inserted.
There have been some reports of cases of toxic shock syndrome as a result of using sea sponges because of dirt, grit or bacteria left in the sponge. However, it is important to keep in mind that this can happen from conventional tampons as well.
Drop by The Pantry at StoneTree to see our selection of natural feminine hygiene products!