How to have a plastic-free period

Menstrual hygiene affects billions of people each month, with most relying on single-use plastic products like pads and tampons. However, have we considered what happens to plastic menstrual products when we dispose of them?

The average person who menstruates uses around 11,000 menstrual products during their lifetime. That’s enough to almost fill a London city bus! However, the majority of these menstrual products are made of plastic, from the product itself to the packaging it comes in. In fact, one pack of pads can contain as much plastic as five carrier bags. So what happens to these products after use?

Not only can these products cause major sewage issues, but the majority end up in landfill, where they will exist as waste for over 500 years and threaten ecosystems. The current system clearly isn’t sustainable. But is it truly possible to have a plastic-free period?

What are the benefits of a plastic-free period?

Luckily, there are options. Menstrual cups, reusable pads, and period underwear are just a few non-plastic alternatives. So, what are the benefits of having a plastic-free period, and why would you make the switch?

1. Reduced waste and environmental impact When compared to plastic products like pads and tampons, one study found that the use of menstrual cups had significantly lower environmental imp

   act, even when used for just one month. Similarly, using period underwear can reduce waste by almost 80% compared to pads. 

   Menstrual cups can have a lifespan for up to ten years, and period pants can be used for two to three years, significantly cutting down on menstrual plastics waste.

2. Reduced costs Over half of people who menstruate consider traditional period products to be expensive. However, switching to plastic-free products can significantly reduce costs. 

   Buying period products costs roughly £10 per month, which amounts to £4,800 in a menstruating lifetime. Period underwear can save you up to 94% compared to plastic disposable products. Not only are plastic-free products good for the environment, they are good for your bank balance too! 

   
   

The solution

Switching to plastic-free menstrual products benefits both the environment while saving money. Making the switch has been made easier thanks to education campaigns that raise crucial awareness of the alternatives, as well as reducing the stigma associated with periods and period products. This will lead to a more sustainable future for ourselves and our planet.