Most of us (not that we had much of a choice) grew up with single-use period products. There’s no shame in that, also if you still rely on pads and tampons every month.
But there’s no denying the menstrual climate is changing. Many are shifting to more sustainable solutions – for their health, their budgets, and the planet. You don’t necessarily have to be ready to make the switch right now; curiosity is the first step, and you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, you’ll find:
- Common reasons for ditching single-use
- What to expect on your first try
- Tips on easing into the transition
- Answers to your big concerns (full transparency)
Single-use vs. reusables
The reusable revolution is well underway, with personal, economic, and environmental reasons for ditching single-use. Here’s why more and more people are joining.
Less waste
The average menstruating human uses over 11,000 disposable pads or tampons in their lifetime. That is a lot of waste that can be avoided.
Reusable period products like period underwear or menstrual cups can last you for years, visibly reducing plastic waste every month. It might feel like a small contribution from one person, but small changes can make a big difference.
Read about our environmental impact if you want to know more.
Long-term savings
As elusive as saving the planet might feel sometimes, the money saved on monthly period shopping can feel very real.
Pads and tampons are expensive, to the point where many can’t afford to restock them every month. Besides, why keep buying products you throw away after a couple of hours?
A menstrual cup is a small investment that pays back for itself in just a few cycles, and then it’s yours for up to 10 years.
Less discomfort
Pads and tampons do the work, but they don’t work very well with our bodies. The irritation, dryness, and chaffing are all part of the pain we’re used to, but it doesn’t have to be this way.
Reusable products are designed to move with you, not against you. Free from fragrance, toxins, and allergens, the materials are breathable and body-safe. We can’t promise you’ll like your periods more, but you might hate them less. And that’s already an improvement.
Better body connection
Single-use products encourage the “out of sight, out of mind” approach, to the point where you don’t even have to touch your body to insert a tampon – the plastic applicator will do it for you.
Reusables can help you get to know your anatomy better, and while it’s more of a side effect than a reason, it’s very welcome by many.
What to expect when trying reusables for the first time
You’ve taken the plunge and bought your first reusable period product. Now what?
Practice makes perfect
It takes time to master a new skill. There’s a learning curve with this switch too, especially when it comes to cups and discs. Inserting them can be a bit tricky at first, and might take 1-3 cycles to fully get the hang of folding, angles, and correct placement. Don’t worry, you’ll get there. Just trust the process.
“Did I forget my pad?”
Period underwear is essentially just free-bleeding into your favourite pair of pants. But before the habit kicks in, you might find yourself panicking that you’re out there unprotected.
Like with anything else new, trust takes time. As soon as you’ll see you’re not leaking all over the place, you’ll believe it.
Think ahead
Reusables are made to last, but they require a bit more prep and planning to serve you well at all times.
Best tip? Sanitize your cup and wash your period pants as soon as your period is over, and pop them in your bag. That way you’ll be ready when it rears its head again unexpectedly.
One step at a time: Tips on starting slow with reusables
It’s normal to want to go 100% reusable from the get-go, but don’t be too hard on yourself. Transitioning from single-use products comes with ebbs and flows, and it’s okay to let yourself ease into it.
Here are some tips that helped us when we first started out.
Start with lighter days: Fear of leaking is a common concern. Introduce reusables on lighter days when it doesn’t feel like such a risk.
Use at home first: It’s a great testing ground in case something goes wrong, or even if you just want to see how it feels in comfortable surroundings.
Keep disposables at hand: Leaks might happen when you’re just starting out. Keep a pad or a tampon in your purse just in case. No shame in mixing it up either!
Lubricate: Don’t be afraid to use a little warm water or water-based lubricant when inserting for a smoother experience. It will help with tension too.
Double up: If you already have period pants and a cup/disc, why not try them together? It will make you feel more secure in case of potential leaking.
Remember to take it one day, one cycle at a time. This is not a competition, and it’s completely fine to go in, come back, and find what feels good.
Your most asked questions
Will I leak?
Only if the cup/disc is not positioned correctly. That seems to be the most common offender when it comes to leaks and will improve as soon as you get it right. The menstrual cup guide can help instruct you further on how to perfect the technique; similarly, if it’s the menstrual disc you’re trying out.
Will I smell?
Let’s be honest, bodily fluids don’t smell of roses. The experience will vary from person to person, but we find that leaving the cup in for too long can intensify the odor. The same goes for period pants.
As long as you keep up with proper hygiene and change them frequently, you should not be able to smell period blood.
What if it gets stuck?
It won’t. Promise. Cups and discs can’t get lost inside you, they might just shift up a little as you move. If you can’t reach it right away, try not to panic! Breathe, and bear down. It should help it shimmy down so you can pull it out easier.
How do I manage my period on the go?
It’s completely safe to clean your cup or disc in a public bathroom, on an airplane, or in the forest - as long as your hands are clean! The product doesn’t need to be re-sanitised when in use, just give it a wipe with some toilet paper and put it back in. If things get a little messy, a wet tissue can help you freshen up.
With period pants it’s much more straightforward, just make sure you carry a spare and a bag for the used ones.
Will I have to touch blood?
Yes. With insertion products it’s inevitable. We can safely say it starts to feel normal over time, perhaps even empowering. But if you know it’s not for you, try period pants instead.
Which method should I choose?
There’s no right answer to this. Period care is personal and should be adapted according to your individual wants and needs. Our comparison article can help you decide which products are a good fit.
Didn’t find the answers you were looking for? Find more helpful guides on our FAQ page.
