Reduce, reuse, recycle. The three word phrase that is ever so prominent lately as the need for environmental changes integrates itself into our daily lives more than ever. Some things come to mind more easily than others when it comes to helping the environment and reducing waste, especially single-use plastics. Reusable water bottles and straws are being sold everywhere in order to reduce plastic waste from completely taking over our oceans. Thrift shopping is not only trendy, but is a great way to get a second use out of recycled clothing. Another way people who get their periods are starting to reduce their use of plastic is by using menstrual cups.
Menstrual cups are a small, flexible, silicon cup that is inserted into the vagina in place of a tampon. They can be worn for up to 12 hours without needing to change. The small cup catches any blood, similar to a tampon. But, instead of replacing it every 3-4 hours, all you have to do is pour the liquid caught into the toilet, rinse out the cup, and reinsert for leak-free coverage lasting all day. While this may seem a little iffy, and kind of gross, at first, I find menstrual cups to be one of the most convenient products to use. When properly inserted, they never leak, are clean, and help reduce the need for single-use, plastic tampons or other period products. Most brands selling menstrual cups offer them in several sizes, usually marketed towards those who have had a child or have not, this coming in two sizes. While they may not be for everyone, I think it is a great product to research and perhaps try out if you are looking for ways to reduce waste and have a more pleasant period.