From the Editor: From our Inbox to you…. :)
A painful allergic reaction to tampons led aspiring fashion designer Madeleine Shaw to create reusable Lunapads. Here’s her wisdom on having a greener period. (Stop making that face.)
How are reusable cups and washable cloth pads better for the planet?
Twenty billion disposable pads, tampons, and applicators are dumped into landfills annually in North America. Each cloth pad or reusable cup replaces hundreds of disposables made from rayon, chlorine-bleached kraft pulp, plastics, waxes, perfumes (or fragrance), surfactants and a host of other chemical ingredients (which are not even disclosed on the box!).
Reusable products have never been associated with Toxic Shock Syndrome and are far less likely to cause irritation. The best and safest menstrual cups are made from silicone.
Are there health benefits to using a menstrual cup?
Tampons absorb essential vaginal moisture in addition to menstrual flow. This can cause painful dryness. Cups are non-absorbent and chemical-free.
Can anyone use a menstrual cup?
Menstrual cups can take getting used to. But most women who try them never go back to disposables. A small percentage of women experience difficulty due to their unique shape—if you have concerns, contact your health care provider.
How do you wash reusable cups and pads?
Follow the instructions that come with your cup—rinse and wash with an eco-friendly liquid soap. Silicone cups can be boiled briefly to sterilize between cycles.
Rinse or soak used pads in cold water; follow with a warm water wash with an eco-friendly detergent. Hang to dry (or machine dry).
Where can I find safer, eco-friendly period products?
London Drugs carries Lunapads in some stores. Also check with your local health food store, or shop online.
The cup retails for $35-$40 and pads cost $15-$20 each. Your purchase will pay for itself in a few months, and you’ll save thousands of dollars!
DYI-ers can make this basic envelope-style pad (PDF) or watch Madeleine’s how-to videos.What is Pads4Girls?
Many girls in developing nations lack access to feminine hygiene products and stay home while menstruating. Pads4Girls provides washable pads and panties so girls can go to school every day and have a brighter future. Lunapads has supported over 2,000 girls in 15 countries with supplies that last for years!
Comment on this blog for a chance to win a DivaCup Kit with Lunapads mini pantyliners!
Congrats to our winners Lesley and Rebecca!
Is your period eco-friendly?Sincerely,
Lindsay Coulter, Queen of Green
Serenity's Gift Cove (sgc) 