Access to reusable menstrual products crucial in addressing pollution, health hazards

Some studies suggest that around 12.3 billion sanitary pads end up in landfills in India annually

Today is World Environmental Day. For most of us, the day is associated with planting saplings. A multitude of tree-planting programmes take place across the world every year on June 5. Don't you think it's time to think differently?

In addition to protecting trees, we can take numerous other actions to contribute to a healthier environment. Sustainable menstruation is one such step. Menstrual waste management is an essential aspect of environmental protection.

The improper disposal of menstrual waste can lead to environmental pollution and health hazards. Some studies suggest that around 12.3 billion pads end up in landfills in India annually. That is 113,000 tonnes of waste. When discussing plastic pollution, we often overlook the impact of this particular type of waste.

Also read: World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2023: Many Indian cities, rural areas are still struggling to manage sanitary waste

Promoting sustainable menstrual products is the key solution to addressing this issue effectively. Sustainable menstrual products are the ones which can be reused for many years. Reusable menstrual products such as menstrual clothes, cloth pads, menstrual cups, period underwear and interlabial pads can help address the issue to an extent.

Menstrual cloths are reusable pieces of fabric worn externally to the body, in underwear or tied to the waist to absorb menstrual blood. They are made either from newly purchased pieces of fabric (mostly cotton) or old fabric repurposed from clothing or other use. This can be washed, dried and reused.

Cloth pads are also reusable, but they look similar to synthetic pads. Cloth menstrual pads are free from irritating materials and chemicals. They absorb the menstrual blood and can be used for about 4-5 hours, depending on your menstrual flow.

On the other hand, a menstrual cup is a bell-shaped product inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual flow. It creates a seal and is held in place by the walls of the vagina.

It is typically made of medical-grade silicone. It collects three times more blood than pads or tampons and needs to be emptied every 6-12 hours, after which it can be rinsed and re-inserted. After each menstrual cycle, the cup must be boiled for 5-10 minutes. Cups are reusable for 5-10 years. In case you feel some irritation while using a menstrual cup, you can stop using it.

Period underwear is another product that absorbs blood without making you uncomfortable. Just like your normal underwear, this can also be washed and reused. And interlabial pads are to be folded and worn lengthwise between the labia. They come in different sizes and absorbencies.

While advocating for the switch towards sustainable products, it is crucial to prioritise accessibility. It is understandable that individuals without access may rely on conventional pads, but in other regions, local authorities can take the initiative to distribute sustainable menstrual products through their development projects.

Kerala has emerged as a noteworthy example in this regard. The state government has taken significant steps to ensure the availability of reusable menstrual products and promote the usage of eco-friendly and cost-effective menstrual cups. A budget of Rs 10 crore has been allocated to support this cause.

Furthermore, the state government has planned awareness programmes and campaigns targeting schools, colleges and workplaces to encourage the adoption of menstrual cups. Notably, under the leadership of Ernakulam MP Hibi Eden, the Ernakulam district administration distributed 0.1 million menstrual cups in Kochi last September as part of their initiative.

Using reusable menstrual products significantly reduces the amount of waste generated, positively impacting the environment. Ultimately, the choice of menstrual products is entirely up to those who menstruate. Choices can be made based on their convenience and preferences. However, it is beneficial if they opt for a more sustainable option.

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Reshma is a research scholar at the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras.

Views expressed are the author's own and don't necessarily reflect those of Down To Earth

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