Natural Feminine Products: Why You Should Make the Switch
It's no secret that a majority of the feminine products lining today's store shelves—from tampons to feminine pads—are made from traditional synthetic cotton. The problem is, using these products can potentially lead to health issues, from irritation and allergies to more serious conditions like bacterial infections and Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
But there's good news! There are more and more brands popping up offering a natural alternative, from LOLA and Cora to Rael and The Honest Company. I've been using them for years, and here's why.
They're healthier
Most of today's feminine products are made with traditionally grown cotton, which in most cases contains chemicals like dioxins, pesticides, insecticides, chlorine, and manufactured fragrances (read this article to learn more about how cotton got its label as the world's dirtiest crop). These fragrances can damage or at the very least irritate the cells within the highly absorbent vaginal wall, potentially leading to bacterial and yeast infections. Because the vaginal area contains these absorbent mucuous membranes, these irritants can easily get into the bloodstream. Organic products, on the other hand, are free from most chemicals, including fragrances and bleach.
They're better for the planet
According to the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, the average woman using tampons will end up going through 11,000+ in her lifetime. That's a lot to add to the landfill. On the flip side, many organic tampons come with biodegradable applicators, which are much more environmentally friendly than their petroleum-based plastic counterparts.
Then there are silicone and natural rubber menstrual cups like DivaCup and The Keeper that more and more women are using, as well as reusable cloth pads like these from Hesta Organic. While I have yet to try these products, I am seriously considering a menstrual cup as an alternative to tampons. Natural health blogger Wellness Mama's blog post on the subject has all but convinced me to test it out.
They're comfortable
Today's feminine hygiene products—from tampons and pads to lubricants and sprays—aren't your mother's feminine hygiene products. The products I use from Lola and Cora, for example, look and function similar to the traditional brands I used years ago. And because they're becoming more common, the cost for these products has become much more competitive with traditional products in recent years.
I made the switch to natural feminine care products several years ago and truthfully haven't looked back. I see little to no difference in how they work, and I feel better knowing that I'm helping myself and the planet. So what are you waiting for? Join me on the journey toward natural health with natural feminine care!