Menstrual hygiene is a fundamental aspect of women’s health and well-being, yet millions of women and girls worldwide face significant barriers to managing their periods safely and with dignity. Menstrual poverty—the lack of access to sanitary products, safe facilities, and education continues to hinder progress in achieving menstrual hygiene for all. In this context, reusable sanitary pads are emerging as a sustainable, affordable, and accessible solution, especially for women and girls in low-income settings.
Importance of Menstrual Hygiene
Proper menstrual hygiene is essential for maintaining good health and preventing infections. Poor menstrual hygiene can lead to urinary tract infections, reproductive tract infections, and other health complications. Moreover, inadequate menstrual hygiene management often results in social stigma, reduced school attendance, and limited participation in daily activities for women and girls. Addressing these challenges is critical for promoting gender equality and ensuring every girl can live up to her potential.
The Role of Reusable Sanitary Pads
Reusable sanitary pads are gaining popularity in recent years due to their ability to absorb menstrual blood effectively, their affordability, and their easy accessibility. These pads can be made using local materials such as cotton fabric, which makes them a viable option for communities with limited resources. Unlike disposable sanitary products, reusable pads can be washed and reused multiple times, reducing waste and lowering long-term costs.
For many women, reusable pads offer a lifeline. They provide a cost-effective alternative to disposable products, which are often too expensive for those living in poverty. By using reusable pads, women and girls can manage their periods with dignity and without fear of leaks or embarrassment. Additionally, these pads contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing the volume of non-biodegradable waste generated by disposable products.
Challenges of Using Reusable Sanitary Pads
Despite their benefits, reusable sanitary pads come with their own set of challenges. Some of the common issues associated with reusable pads are bleaching of the cotton fabric, shifting of the pad during use, skin reactions, and swelling.
- Swelling: Reusable pads often feel bulky due to their multiple fabric layers, causing discomfort during activities and chafing especially during extended wear. Their thickness limits compatibility with tight-fitting clothing, impacting wardrobe choices. While manufacturers are improving designs with slimmer options, bulkiness remains a common challenge for many users seeking comfort and practicality.
- Movement: Reusable pads has the tendency to move or shift out of place during wear. Unlike disposable pads with adhesive strips, reusable pads typically rely on snap buttons, wings, or other fastening mechanisms to stay in position. However, these mechanisms may not always be effective, particularly during physical activities or for individuals with heavier flows. This movement can lead to discomfort, leakage, and frequent adjustments, which may be inconvenient, especially in public settings. Choosing pads with better fastening systems or using snug-fitting underwear can mitigate this problem, but it may not completely eliminate the inconvenience.
- Bleaching of Cotton Material: Poor quality fabric often discolours and weakens with frequent washing and exposure to sunlight reducing its softness, and absorbency. These issues affect the pad’s effectiveness and comfort, highlighting the importance of choosing high-quality, unbleached, or organically treated cotton for better performance.
- Skin Irritation: Some users may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions. These reactions may stem from residues of detergents, soaps, or bleaching agents used in cleaning the pads. Additionally, prolonged exposure to moisture during menstruation can lead to chafing or discomfort, particularly for those with sensitive skin. Ensuring proper cleaning and thorough rinsing of the pads can help reduce the risk of irritation.
Conclusion
While reusable menstrual pads offer an environmentally sustainable and cost-effective alternative to disposable options, they are accompanied by several challenges that warrant careful consideration. Issues such as fabric bleaching, pad movement, skin irritation, and swelling can pose significant barriers to their effective use. Addressing these concerns requires a proactive approach that includes proper cleaning techniques, diligent maintenance, and informed usage practices. By understanding and mitigating these challenges, users can fully embrace the advantages of reusable pads while minimizing potential discomfort, health risks, and maintenance difficulties, ensuring a more positive and sustainable menstrual care experience.