As a menstruator, you bleed for a few days per month for around four decades of your life. That’s a very long time to be exposed to period pads (or whatever menstrual pad alternatives you use)!
That’s why it’s so important to avoid being in contact with unnecessary chemicals like those found in conventional period pads. Find out exactly why it’s important to choose chlorine-free pads and how to avoid other dangers of disposable pads.
What Material is Believed to Be Needed to Make Period Pads?
Ever wondered what material is needed to make period pads? As simple as period pads look, you’d be surprised at how many potentially toxic chemicals are involved in their production.
Plastic
Plastic is used in the lining, packaging, and even in the main body of disposable menstruation pads. Super absorbent polymers are capable of soaking up a lot of liquid but are not biodegradable, which means they will ultimately contaminate the environment.
Plastic in period pads is also a source of volatile organic compounds which can be damaging to health. Plus, plastic period pads are not compostable, meaning they are destined for the landfill.
Chlorine
Ever wondered why your disposable menstrual pads are white? They’re not naturally that way; period pads are bleached with chlorine to give them that clean, white appearance. Dioxin is a carcinogenic by-product of this bleaching process that has been found in trace amounts in period pads and tampons that are chlorine bleached.
Phthalates
This class of chemicals is used to soften and increase the flexibility of plastics. While they’re found in many household products, it’s particularly concerning that they are detected in period pads, since they have been shown to be harmful to the reproductive system and cell development.
Some people claim that chemicals in pads make you bleed more. While there is currently no conclusive evidence of this, it is known that chemicals like these are endocrine disruptors, meaning they can affect your hormones.
Pesticide Residues
Even if you use what you think are environmentally friendly cotton pads, unless you opt for organic cotton pads, you may be exposed to pesticide residues. That’s because traditionally grown cotton is one of the most heavily sprayed crops in the world when it comes to pesticides. Certain pesticides are linked with cancers and endocrine disruption.
Synthetic Fragrances
Many disposable menstrual pads contain chemicals that are meant to neutralize odours and artificial fragrances. These synthetic fragrances can cause serious irritations and even allergies, particularly for menstruators with sensitive skin. Usually, the specific ingredients are not written on the package, meaning you can’t be sure whether chemicals linked to cancer and other harmful health outcomes are present in your disposable menstrual pads.
The Benefits of Menstrual Pads That are Free of Chlorine and Other Harmful Chemicals
Now that you know some of the dangers of disposable pads, you know that the answer to the question “are chlorine-free pads better?” is a resounding “yes”.
Whether you use disposable menstrual pads, reusable cotton menstrual pads, or bamboo menstrual pads, the period pad is right up against your intimate area, which has the most sensitive and absorptive skin on your body.
The benefits of chlorine-free pads or bleach-free period pads are the absence of the by-product dioxin and less risk of skin irritation or itchiness of your genital area. People with allergies or sensitive skin, in particular, can benefit from chlorine-free pads.
Read more about Biodegradable Pads and The Environmental Impact of Disposable Menstrual Pads for more information.
Aruna Revolution Health Protects Menstruator’s Bodies by Providing Bleach, Fragrance, Plastic, and Chlorine-Free Period Pads
It’s scary what material is “needed” to make period pads. The good news is that there’s a better way to create sustainable menstrual pad alternatives that are not harmful to your health or the environment.
Aruna’s chlorine-free pads are not only completely safe for your body but they are also 100% compostable menstrual pads. These bleach-free pads have zero plastic, dioxin, or artificial fragrances, making them a revolutionary choice for sustainable menstruation.
FAQs:
What chemicals are in menstrual pads?
A variety of chemicals, including dioxins, perfumes, and adhesives, which have been connected to health and environmental concerns, may be present in menstrual pads.
Are period pads bleached?
To make them white, certain sanitary napkins use chlorine bleaching, which can produce the harmful byproduct dioxins.
Do always pads contain chlorine?
Pads do not always contain chorine. However, popular brands such as Always pads does contain chlorine.
Do pads have chemicals in them?
Yes, menstrual pads do have chemicals in them such as adhesives, dyes, and scents.