One way to avoid these problems is to buy organic and products. You will greatly reduce your exposure to chemicals while still using very similar products. They work extremely well, and there is no change in quality or absorbancy. I notice that these products are not as irritating to the skin in my case.
An alternative to the conventional tampons and pads is the menstrual cup. Menstrual cups are a soft silicone container that can be inserted and left in place for up to twelve hours. They are inexpensive, and they are reusable, so there is no waste, and you actually save money on tampons. I find them easy to use and more convenient than tampons. Like using a tampon for the first time, however, they do take a bit of practice to insert. There are many videos on Youtube that give instructions. An added benefit of this product is that there is NO risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome because the bacteria that causes it grows only in absorbent material like cotton and rayon. There are two sizes: Diva Cup Model 1 Pre-Childbirth
, and DivaCup Model 2 Post-Childbirth
.
Finally, there is another way to go greener during your period, and for those of you who use cloth diapers, it may come as no surprise: Cloth Pads
. I have not tried these yet, but I intend to at some point during my journey of becoming more eco-conscious.
I haven't decided if I will buy these ones or if I will make my own. One of the books I already own, Handmade Home: Simple Ways to Repurpose Old Materials into New Family Treasures
has a pattern. 
Whatever your choice may be for making that time of the month as relaxed as possible, there is a way to do right by your body and the planet in each of these choices!
Tags: woman, period, menstrual, cup, cycle, natural, organic, Diva Cup
I use cloth pads and love them :) I bought mine, but hope to make some in the future. Much softer than disposable pads, cheaper, and I just toss them in with my cloth diapers to wash.
ReplyDeleteI wondered if they can be washed with the diapers. That sways my opinion to make the switch sooner than later.
DeleteYes they can. I have done it!
DeleteHi Becki. So happy i found you on bloggymom.com. I'm glad to meet a fellow mama, and christian who's also considerate about the environment. i would label myself as "sorta-crunchy", but definitely one who practices attachment parenting. i recently started my own blog and i'd love for you to check it out>>> www.theheartnart.wordpress.com. if if strikes your fancy, i'd appreciate it if you could follow me too. I would look forward in connecting with you through the new venture of mine. thank so much!
ReplyDelete