Ewww! Go ahead and say it out loud. That is the first thought that goes through everyone’s mind. Now that you’ve gotten past that initial reaction, let’s talk cloth.
It makes perfect sense. Yes, you can do it. No, it’s not gross. In fact, it is a lot more comfortable that you could ever imagine.
There are many reasons to use cloth pads rather than disposable. Here we are going to discuss a few.
Health Benefits
Pads Vs. Tampons
There are many articles out there that address the issue of tampons and TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome). In a nutshell, the materials in the tampon can produce Staphylococcus aureus bacteria and this leads to TSS. Tampon manufacturers have taken out 3 of the 4 dangerous synthetic components in tampons, however, highly absorbent viscose rayon, which produces toxins, is still used. Tampons should not be left in for more than six hours – but how many of us have left in an ultra-absorbent tampon overnight?
Tampons are also believed to lead to infertility, endometriosis, and the fibers left behind from tampons can cause odor and inflammation and give rise to tumorous growths. Why risk your health – or your teenage daughter’s?
Disposable sanitary pads have the same concerns in terms of the chemicals in the cotton used and the bleaching process – not to mention the use of fragrances. Although they are in less contact with the internal vaginal wall they are still in contact with the external mucous membrane. Pads are also often made with a dry-weave plastic cover which can cause irritation, sensitivity, and allergic reactions. Many women (including me) have mistakenly believed they have had (and treated) several yeast infections, when in reality, they were suffering from a reaction to their disposable pad.
What about the smell? There isn’t one, in fact many women, have even reported having a lighter cycle and less odor after switching to cloth. It makes you wonder about the disposable pads and tampons all over again doesn’t it?
Environmental Benefits
The average woman will have about 500 periods in her lifetime (moment of silence please) and will use about 16,800 pads or tampons in her lifetime. Include the packaging and plastic applicators and you start to wonder – is there a landfill out there with my name on it? Even if you are not totally converted to cloth, just switching to cloth panty liners for the last days of your period will make a huge difference over a lifetime.
Savings
Generally, it is cheaper to reuse than to buy new every time. This is no different with cloth mama pads. It will cost a little extra up front, but you will benefit in the long run. When building your stash, start small and work your way up. Most women feel more comfortable starting out with a couple of liners, then working their way up to regular size pads. It helps your budget and builds your confidence.
