The Hidden Costs of Sanitary Pads: Are We Sacrificing Our Health and the Planet?
- Cathrine Rose
- Jan 4
- 3 min read
Sanitary pads have become a staple for many women, offering convenience and comfort during menstruation. Yet, beneath this convenience lies a complex web of health concerns and environmental impacts that often go unnoticed. After experiencing eight postpartums, I’ve come to realize how deeply these products affect not only our bodies but also the world around us. This post explores the hidden costs of sanitary pads and why it’s time to rethink what we use every month.
The Environmental Toll of Disposable Sanitary Pads
Sanitary pads contribute significantly to landfill waste. Estimates show that they make up at least 7% of all landfill content. This is staggering when you consider the millions (half the world's population) of women using these products monthly for over 30 years. The materials used in pads—mostly synthetic plastics—do not break down easily. Instead, they linger in the environment for decades, centuries, polluting soil and waterways.
Many pads are individually wrapped in plastic, adding to the waste problem. This packaging, combined with the pads themselves, creates a mountain of non-biodegradable trash. Unlike cloth diapers and pads, which can be washed and reused, disposable pads are single-use items that pile up quickly.
Chemicals in Sanitary Pads and Their Impact on Health
Sanitary pads contain a cocktail of chemicals that raise concerns. These include styrene, chloromethane, chloroethane, chloroform, and acetone. Many of these substances are volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which release harmful fumes and are absorbed through the skin.
When pads and diapers come into direct contact with the external genitalia for extended periods, there is a strong likelihood that VOCs and phthalates enter the reproductive system. Over time, this exposure contributes to issues such as vulvar irritation, pelvic floor problems, and possibly more serious reproductive health concerns.
Women typically use these products for decades, multiplying the exposure risk. This long-term contact with synthetic materials and chemicals is a factor that deserves more attention in discussions about women’s health.
The Financial Burden of Monthly Purchases
The cost of sanitary pads adds up over time. Buying pads every month for 30 years or more can become a significant financial strain. For many women, this expense is a hidden but constant part of their budget.
Switching to reusable options like linen pads can reduce these costs dramatically. Linen pads dry faster than cotton, making them practical and comfortable. They also avoid the monthly expense of disposable products, offering savings that add up over time.
The Energy and Frequency of Synthetic vs. Natural Fabrics
Synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester have a low energy frequency, similar to that of a dead body, which is around 15. This low frequency may negatively affect the body’s energy and mood when in close contact with sensitive areas.
In contrast, natural linen has a much higher frequency, around 5000. Using linen sanitary pads could positively influence mood and genital health by providing a more natural, breathable, and less irritating fabric against the skin.
This difference in fabric energy is not just a theory but something many women report feeling in their comfort and well-being when switching to natural materials.
Benefits of Linen Sanitary Pads
Eco-friendly: Linen pads reduce landfill waste and pollution.
Cost-effective: Reusable pads save money over time.
Healthier: Natural fibers reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.
Quick drying: Linen dries faster than cotton, reducing moisture and irritation.
Comfortable: Breathable fabric supports pelvic floor health.
By choosing linen pads, women can support their health and the environment simultaneously.
Taking Control of Our Health and Environment
The convenience of disposable sanitary pads has come at a cost. We have been conditioned to "go-go-go," ignoring the natural rhythms of our bodies and the impact of synthetic products on our health. It’s time to pause and consider alternatives that respect both our bodies and the planet.
Switching to reusable, natural fabric pads is a practical step. It reduces chemical exposure, lowers monthly expenses, and lessens environmental harm. Small changes in our personal care routines can lead to significant benefits over time.
Women deserve products that support their health without sacrificing the environment. By making informed choices, we can protect ourselves and the world we live in.
Comments