If you prefer the comfort of sanitary pads, you should definitely explore these alternative options that offer more natural and convenient solutions.

Sanitary pads remain the preferred choice for many women, especially in urban areas, due to their widespread availability in both medical and cosmetic stores. However, despite their convenience, the long-term negative effects of sanitary pads on both health and the environment are often overlooked in favor of comfort. It’s worth noting that sanitary pads are predominantly made of non-biodegradable plastic, posing significant harm to both human health and the environment. The degradation process for a single sanitary pad can take anywhere from 500 to 800 years. Therefore, there is an urgent need to transition towards healthier and more environmentally friendly alternatives. Here are a few options worth considering.
Tampons
Tampons, designed to absorb menstrual blood, are inserted into the vagina. While they may not be inherently more eco-friendly than pads, tampons offer ease of use due to their smaller size and simple insertion process. Additionally, they are often considered less messy compared to sanitary pads. Experts typically recommend changing tampons every four to six hours, depending on the flow of your period.
Menstrual Cup
Menstrual cups, like tampons, are inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood. Due to their larger capacity, some individuals prefer them over sanitary napkins or tampons. A significant advantage of menstrual cups is their eco-friendliness, as one cup can be reused for three to five years. Although the initial insertion may seem tricky and potentially messy, with practice, it becomes comfortable and gentle on the body.
Menstrual Sponges
These natural and renewable menstrual hygiene options serve as alternatives to tampons and are often referred to as sea sponge tampons or period sponges. They are sourced from the ocean and are entirely natural, free from synthetic materials, chemicals, bleach, chlorine, scent, and dyes. These sea sponges can be reused for up to six months, providing a sustainable option for managing menstrual flow.
Cloth Pads
Cloth pads function similarly to disposable ones, but they consist of layers of cotton covered with a washable, reusable, and waterproof fabric. These pads are lightweight, comfortable, and environmentally friendly. Moreover, they eliminate the risk of toxic shock syndrome, making them one of the healthiest options for menstrual hygiene.
Menstrual Discs
Another option for menstrual hygiene involves discs, which are inserted into the vagina and move further into the canal compared to cups. Each disc can hold enough fluid to provide protection equivalent to five tampons for up to twelve hours. Although mastering the insertion process may pose initial challenges, practice can make it simpler and more manageable.
Ms. Monica Bindra, Founder & CEO of Laiqa, noted, “Previously, the hygiene market offered limited options for women seeking comfortable pads. However, in recent years, the Indian hygiene market has introduced new options such as menstrual cups and discs that prioritize comfort and sustainability. These products have witnessed a surge in demand as women increasingly opt for sustainable and eco-friendly period products. There are several reasons driving women to try menstrual cups or discs. Firstly, women are becoming more environmentally conscious. Additionally, menstrual cups are more cost-effective than pads, as a good quality menstrual cup can be purchased at a low price and last for five to ten years. Moreover, women find that using a period cup allows them to swim, run, and exercise comfortably, which may not be possible with pads. Overall, the response has been positive, with women willing to try alternative products for comfortable periods.”