Recently, I found myself experiencing my menstrual cycle while browsing through an organic grocery store. It seemed like the perfect opportunity to explore the feminine hygiene aisle for sustainable options. However, I was met with a bewildering array of products. There were reusable cloths, menstrual cups, chlorine-free options, fragrance-free pads, biodegradable tampons, sea sponges, bamboo fiber underwear, and even containers for soaking reusable cloths. I noticed stain and odor removers created from plant-based ingredients, along with practical guides for alternative menstrual products.
As I scanned the shelf, I couldn’t help but notice the “intimacy” section, which included gluten-free lubricants. It seems that even personal care can be vegan! I decided to take a small step toward eco-conscious menstruation by purchasing a pack of “natural” pads and rushed to the restroom.
To my surprise, these pads weren’t individually wrapped. This raised a few concerns: how could I discreetly carry an unwrapped pad, which resembled a small pillow? What if I wanted to attend a nice dinner and needed to bring an emergency supply? Should I roll it up and find an eco-friendly wrap or stow it away in a brown paper bag? Surely, there must be pads with biodegradable packaging; perhaps I accidentally chose the most environmentally friendly option.
When I attempted to attach the pad to my high-waisted underwear, the absence of industrial-grade adhesive made it a challenge. I cautiously maneuvered my way to the produce section, hoping my eco-friendly feminine product wouldn’t fall out in public. Transitioning to a greener menstrual routine certainly requires effort!
While menstrual cups and sustainably sourced sea sponges are intriguing alternatives, the thought of inserting a silicone cup into my body felt daunting. What if it overflowed? What if it got lost? And what exactly are sustainably harvested sea sponges? I’ve experimented with various things, but I draw the line at sea sponges. Maybe I would consider using kale next!
Then there’s the question of sizing—yes, vaginas come in different shapes and sizes. At five foot two, does that imply I have a petite vagina? How does one even determine such a thing? I was shocked to realize I had gone through life without knowing whether my anatomy fell into the “long” or “short” category.
And what about those who advocate for reusable cloths? They seem to be the ultimate eco-warriors, likely the same individuals who choose home births, homeschool their children, and whip up organic baby food. While I admire their dedication, I struggle to keep up with laundry, let alone manage the soaking, washing, and reusing of cloths. Isn’t recycling my plastics sufficient?
I do feel a pang of guilt regarding my impact on the environment. How many plastic tampon applicators and scented pads have been discarded into landfills? If I decide to change my habits now, will it make a difference? Perhaps I am discovering this green period movement too late.
The entire concept feels overwhelming and somewhat primitive. Perhaps I should just stay home for five days each month. Better yet, maybe my partner could construct a menstrual retreat equipped with a wet bar, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning so I could manage my cycle in solitude, reducing my carbon footprint while avoiding household chores.
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Summary
Navigating the world of eco-friendly menstrual products can be both overwhelming and enlightening. With various options available, from reusable cloths to menstrual cups, it’s crucial to find what works best for you. While the transition to greener products may present challenges, it’s an important step toward environmental responsibility.