Menstruation plays a crucial role in the lives of individuals experiencing it, lasting approximately five days a month and often accompanied by painful symptoms. Among various menstrual hygiene products, sanitary pads are commonly preferred by most individuals for their comfort. According to the fifth National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), Indian women aged 15-24 predominantly opt for sanitary pads, with 64.4% favoring regular pads and 49.6% using cloth alternatives.
While sanitary pads offer comfort, they contain chemicals that can pose risks such as rashes and skin infections. To address these concerns, experts advocate for the use of organic cotton pads. Dr. Manisha Ranjan, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynecologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Noida, emphasizes the importance of personal hygiene. She highlights that maintaining personal hygiene is crucial to avoid various issues like rashes, vaginal irritation, urinary tract infections (UTIs), yeast infections, and reducing the risk of HPV and cervical cancer.
Dr. Ranjan recommends cotton pads for their natural softness and absorbency without adverse effects. Additionally, from a hygiene standpoint, cotton pads are preferred as they actively resist bacterial and fungal growth caused by excessive moisture.
What makes the use of conventional sanitary pads potentially hazardous
Conventional menstrual pads are often bright white due to the bleaching process involving dioxin chemicals, which pose potential health risks. Long-term exposure to these chemicals may lead to severe complications, such as skin cancer. Additionally, traditional pads contain fragrances that can cause irritation and disrupt hormonal balance.
Continued use of regular sanitary pads can have serious health implications. It is advisable to switch to safer alternatives, such as organic cotton pads. These pads allow the skin to breathe and remain dry, thanks to their absorbent cellulose core. By promoting airflow, organic cotton pads reduce the risk of bacterial and fungal infections, as they facilitate quicker drying of the skin.
How should someone choose a sanitary napkin
Ms. Monica Bindra, Founder & CEO of Laiqa, highlights that inadequate knowledge about the materials used in sanitary napkins contributes to gynecological issues among women. The sensitive nature of the intimate area makes it prone to rashes, itching, and inflammation during periods, often caused by napkins containing chlorine, harmful chemicals, excessive plastic, and low-quality raw materials.
The presence of high plastic content in conventional pads can result in urinary tract infections (UTIs) and skin rashes, potentially leading to reproductive health complications over time. To mitigate these risks, menstruators should opt for pH-balanced pads made from premium raw materials, featuring non-toxic glue, devoid of allergens, chemicals, and artificial fragrances, with minimal plastic content.
Selecting sanitary napkins meeting these criteria, such as cloth pads, can help menstruators avoid rashes, infections, allergies, and safeguard against potential reproductive health issues during menstruation.