Reusable Period Items: Sustainable Solutions for a Better Tomorrow

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Welcome to Endo Warriors Aotearoa, a charity committed to improving the lives of individuals with endometriosis and other menstrual health conditions in Aotearoa, New Zealand. One of our core initiatives is providing reusable period items to those in need, helping promote sustainability and menstrual well-being. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of reusable period items, the different options available (Pads, Cups, Underwear, and Togs), their durability, and their positive impact on the environment.

 

The Benefits of Reusable Period Items

1. Economical: One of the primary advantages of reusable period items is their cost-effectiveness. While the initial investment might be slightly higher than disposable products, the long-term savings are substantial. A reusable item can last for several years, reducing the monthly expense associated with disposables.

2. Environmentally Friendly: Disposable period products contribute to enormous amounts of waste. Reusable items, on the other hand, are sustainable choices that significantly reduce the environmental impact. By using them, you can make a positive contribution to reducing plastic waste and environmental pollution.

3. Healthier and More Comfortable: Many people find that reusable period items are more comfortable and less likely to cause skin irritation or allergies compared to disposable products. They are often made from skin-friendly, toxin-free materials.

4. Reduction in Odor: Reusable items tend to have better odor control than disposable products. This can lead to increased confidence and comfort during your period.

5. Empowerment: By using reusable period items, you gain a sense of empowerment and autonomy over your menstrual health. It allows you to have more control and a deeper understanding of your body.

 

Different Types of Reusable Period Items

1. Cloth Pads: Cloth pads are washable and come in various shapes and sizes. They can be used for several years with proper care.

2. Menstrual Cups: Menstrual cups are made of medical-grade silicone, rubber, or latex. They are inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual fluid and can be reused for up to 10 years.

3. Menstrual Underwear: These specialized undergarments are designed to absorb menstrual flow and can be reused for years. They are discreet and easy to maintain.

4. Menstrual Togs: Menstrual togs are swimwear designed for use during your period. They are made of high-quality, moisture-wicking fabric and can be used for several years, making swimming during your period worry-free.

 

Did you know that disposable period products are major contributors to plastic waste? Consider the enormous waste generated by tampons, pads, and their packaging. Period poverty isn't just a financial issue, it's an environmental one too. In a lifetime, one menstruator will use between 11,000 and 17,000 tampons in their lifetime.

 

That's a whopping 140 kilograms of waste, equivalent to the weight of a panda bear

In terms of what lands in the landfill every person who uses disposable period products chucks out around 22 products per period (about a plastic bag full each month) and that adds up to a whopping wheelie-bin worth of products every year. That means the average 25-year-old, has already filled about 11 wheelie-bins and counting.

 

That's a lot of waste ending up in our landfills, isn't it?"

 

But there's a solution that not only combats period poverty, but also reduces plastic waste. Reusable period items offer an affordable, sustainable solution, lasting up to ten years. Consider the transformative impact we could achieve by assisting those enduring period poverty in transitioning to reusable menstrual products.

 

We have the power to make a difference, and it starts with you, Donate today, and join Endo Warriors Aotearoa in their fight against period poverty."