On average, women use 11,000 disposable menstrual products during their lifetime, and most of them end up flushed down the toilet. A 2018 report by the European Commission found that sanitary items are the fifth most-common waste product found washed up on beaches.

With these planet-friendly period products you can make a much-needed difference and help stop period pollution in its tracks.

Organic tampons 

Period protection is essential but plastic in your tampon isn’t. If you’re new to the concept of a zero-waste period and find the idea of
a menstrual cup intimidating,
eco-friendly alternatives such as the Yoni Organic Cotton Tampons are a great place to start. This bleach, plastic and perfume-free option is not only better for your body, but also the environment. If you can, try to opt for the applicator-free products to really reduce your plastic use.

Menstrual cup

Inserting a menstrual cup might feel tricky at first, but once you master the technique of using a product like the OrganiCup, you won’t be going back to tampons. Also available is the Ziggy Cup™ from Intimina. Made from antibacterial silicon, it’s comfortable, versatile, and reusable, so reduces your period product waste. Its revolutionary flat-fit design makes it the only reusable cup that can be worn during sex. What’s not to like?

Period-proof undies

For those who prefer less invasive products, period-proof underwear like the Flux Undies might be the perfect solution.

Holding up to four regular tampons worth of blood, these reusable, machine washable and hypoallergenic pants won’t leak. Their slim, functional fit won’t make you feel like you’re wearing a nappy, and the antibacterial properties will keep you fresh and dry for up to 12 hours.