Sustainability in Menstrual Health: Why Reusable Solutions Matter

Cups of change
Mar 21
3 min read

When it comes to menstrual health, the conversation often revolves around accessibility and affordability. But there’s another critical factor that deserves equal attention: sustainability. In countries like Nigeria, where period poverty is a significant issue, sustainable menstrual solutions provide a pathway not only to better health but also to long-term economic and environmental benefits.

Let’s dive into why reusable menstrual products—like pads, underwear, and cups—are game-changers and why they hold the key to a sustainable future for menstrual health.

The Financial Argument: Saving Costs, Empowering Women

Single-use menstrual products like disposable pads create a recurring expense that many women and girls in developing countries simply cannot afford. On the other hand, reusable products like menstrual cups, reusable pads, and menstrual underwear are designed to last for years.

- Menstrual Cups: A single cup can last up to 15 years, making it an incredibly cost-effective solution. While the upfront cost may be higher, the long-term savings are undeniable.

- Reusable Pads and Underwear: These products can be washed and reused for months or even years, drastically reducing the financial burden of menstruation.

By choosing reusable solutions, women can redirect their limited resources toward education, healthcare, or other essential needs. This financial empowerment is especially critical in regions where period poverty keeps girls out of school and women out of work.

The Enviromental Argument: Reducing Waste, Protecting Our Planet

The environmental impact of disposable menstrual products is staggering. A single woman may use thousands of disposable pads in her lifetime, most of which end up in landfills or as litter. In countries with inadequate waste management systems, this problem is even more pronounced.

Reusable Products: Menstrual cups, reusable pads, and underwear significantly reduce waste. These products are not only durable but also biodegradable or recyclable, depending on the material.
Sewing Sustainable Pads: Teaching women to sew their own reusable pads using locally available materials is another way to promote sustainability. It not only reduces waste but also creates a sense of ownership and independence.

By embracing reusable solutions, we can combat the environmental crisis caused by disposable products while promoting a culture of sustainability.

The Health Argument: Safe, Hygienic, and Reliable

Reusable menstrual products are not just sustainable —

they’re also safe and hygienic when used correctly. Menstrual cups, for example, are made from medical-grade silicone and are free from harmful chemicals found in some disposable products.

Reusable pads and underwear, when properly washed and dried, provide a safe and comfortable alternative to disposable options. Moreover, these solutions eliminate the risk of running out of supplies, ensuring that women are always prepared, no matter their circumstances.

The Debate: Which Solution is Best?

While all reusable menstrual products offer significant benefits, the choice ultimately depends on individual needs and preferences:

Menstrual Cups: Ideal for women who want a long-term, low-maintenance solution. Cups are particularly useful in areas with limited access to water, as they require less frequent changes.
Reusable Pads: A great option for those who prefer a more familiar experience. Pads are easy to sew, making them a practical solution for community-based sustainability initiatives.
Menstrual Underwear: Perfect for young girls or women who want a discreet and comfortable option. These are especially helpful as a backup for cups or pads.

The key is to provide a variety of options, empowering women to choose what works best for them while promoting sustainability across the board.

Sustainability is the Future 🌍🫶♀️

At Cups of Change, we believe that sustainability is not just a buzzword—it’s a necessity. By advocating for reusable menstrual products, we’re not only addressing period poverty but also fostering a culture of environmental responsibility and financial empowerment.

Our goal is to distribute the 300 menstrual cups we already collected by donations, and hope to get even more! ♀️🌍

Purchase menstrual underwear, and provide materials for sewing reusable pads in the next 6-12 months. But beyond distribution, we aim to educate and inspire communities to embrace sustainable solutions that will benefit generations to come.

Together, we can create a world where menstruation is not a source of shame or financial strain but a natural and manageable part of life.

Let’s continue to champion sustainability, one cup, one pad, and one pair of underwear at a time.

And empower one woman at a time together 🫶🤲♀️🌍💖