Please read the following post for important information on how I’ve chosen my recommendations:
Tampons/Pads/Feminine Hygiene Products
TLDR: Disposable feminine hygiene products contain up to 90% plastic, which is bad for the environment. Plus, studies show all those chemicals could be dangerous for your body. Get a menstrual cup if you can.
Why you should care: “While in a landfill, disposable pads are estimated to take 500 to 800 years to break down, and materials such as plastic never truly biodegrade. This is of major concern given that each menstruator will use and dispose of between 5,000 and 15,000 pads and tampons in their lifetime.” https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ijgo.14311 Plus, studies show all those chemicals could be dangerous for your body. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9876534/
What you should buy: https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-menstrual-cup/
My personal favorite is the MeLuna, but everyone’s body is different. It’s worth it to try out a few different products until you find the best fit. It’s an upfront cost, but the cups will last for years and cost much less than disposable pads/tampons.
What if you don’t have a period? If you don’t menstruate, consider donating menstrual cups to people in need! Or talking about them with your kids, neighbors, friends, etc. An educated menstruator can advocate for themselves and for others.
NOTE: Here’s how to clean your menstrual cup.
Photo Credit: Reproductive Health Supplies Coalition