Zero Waste, Zero Toxicity | Menstrual Cycles
Hello Everyone,
I hope all is well!
Today, we’re diving into the infamous “bloody hour” and how I’ve transitioned to a zero-waste, sustainable approach for managing it. For years, I used disposable menstrual products that contribute to landfill waste and expose our bodies to harmful chemicals. But I’ve made a conscious decision to move toward healthier, eco-friendly alternatives.
Let’s get into it!
Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups can be messy, but over time, I’ve developed a system that makes the process seamless—and I’m sharing it with you, courtesy of my personal experience.
One of the benefits I love most is that menstrual cups reduce the need for frequent changes. On my lighter days, I only need to change my cup 2-3 times throughout the day, including when I first wake up and before my nightly shower. On my heaviest day, I change it 3-4 times, including in the morning. My menstrual cycle typically lasts 5-6 days, with the second day being the heaviest.
While the adjustment period can be challenging, I’ve found menstrual cups to be life-changing. They save me money, reduce waste, and provide peace of mind with their long-lasting wear and leak protection. I even wear my menstrual cup by itself overnight! Trusting a menstrual cup takes time, but it’s worth the effort.
My Recommendations:
These are the only cups I’ve tried so far, but they are very inexpensive and come from a brand that has taken great initiatives toward resolving menstrual care issues:
They also have options for younger users:
For those of you who have given birth the brand recommends:
This is not a sponsored post! I just really enjoy the price and inclusivity that June offers!
Menstrual Lubricants
Lubricants can make the insertion process of menstrual cups much smoother, especially if you’re new to using them. I highly recommend incorporating one into your routine! Personally, I prefer water-based lubricants to minimize exposure to harsh chemicals, but here are a few great options:
Water Based
Aloe Cadabra (I included this next one for those who may feel like the off-brand version isn’t as natural and for those sensitive to any form of alcohol.)
Oil Based
Menstrual Cleaner & Sterilizer
When it’s time to empty my menstrual cup, I start by rinsing it, followed by a thorough cleanse. For thorough cleaning during my menstrual cycle, I use a portable sterilizer in conjunction with travel-sized, non-toxic soaps. In public restrooms, having a portable cleaner is essential for convenience. I highly recommend the Pixie Menstrual Cup Compact & Collapsible Sterilizer for this purpose. My top pick for soaps to pair with the sterilizer is the Relaxing Body Foam Wash Lavender & Chamomile. I particularly like the powder form because it’s incredibly convenient for public restrooms. When I come into the restroom, all I need to do is fill the sterilizer with water, add the powder, and give it a quick shake. Once I empty my cup, I can clean it using this solution, reinsert the cup, and then discreetly dump the water into the toilet. It makes the entire process seamless and hygienic.
At the end of my cycle, I make sure to sterilize my cup to ensure proper hygiene and extend its lifespan. Here are a few methods:
Use the Pixie Cup Menstrual Cup Sterilizer (my favorite for ease).
Place the menstrual cup in boiling water on the stove for two minutes.
Place it in a mug of warm water that has been microwaved for three minutes.
Menstrual Panties
If you’re not familiar with PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), here’s what you need to know. These chemicals are commonly used to make products water and stain-resistant but are highly toxic and persist in the environment and our bodies for years. Some associated health risks include:
Reduced immunity and vaccination response
Increased risks of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease
Fertility issues and increased miscarriage risks and low sperm count
Higher likelihood of certain cancers, including testicular and kidney cancer
After researching menstrual underwear brands free of PFAS, I discovered Aisle Menstrual Booty Shorts and plan to try them during my next cycle. They offer a variety of sizes, colors, and options of undies, however, I chose these for comfort. Aisle stands out for its regular product testing through SGS - a leading testing and inspection company; Sierra Club and Mamavation.
Reusable Menstrual Pads: A Zero-Waste Swap
If menstrual cups or period panties aren’t your thing, reusable cloth pads are another amazing low-waste option! These feel just like regular pads, but instead of tossing them out, you wash and reuse them—saving money and reducing waste.
Why Use Reusable Menstrual Pads?
Completely waste-free – One pad lasts years, unlike disposables that end up in landfills.
Made with breathable materials – Less irritation compared to synthetic disposable pads.
Cost-effective – While the upfront cost is higher, they pay for themselves within a few months.
Easy to clean – Just rinse, toss in the wash, and air dry!
My Reusable Pad Recommendations
Aisle Cloth Pads – Made with organic cotton, ultra-absorbent, and come in different sizes.
If you prefer the feeling of a pad over a cup or period panties, this is a great transition product for a more sustainable cycle!
What If I Cannot Afford Menstrual Panties At the Moment?
Honestly, girl same! I recommend to you this menstrual brand called Honey Pot, which is. what I have been using until I can purchase the menstrual panties. Especially on the toughest days of my menstrual cycle the peppermint infused pads are always so soothing! You can also pick them up from your local drug or department store!
Ibuprofen Alternatives
My first day of menstruation is always the most painful, and in the past, I’ve relied heavily on ibuprofen to get through it. However, I’m working to reduce my dependency on painkillers due to their potential long-term effects. Here are some natural alternatives I’ve started incorporating:
Heat Therapy: I have been searching for a good electric heating blanket.
Iron, D3, Magnesium, and Multivitamins Supplements: I’ve started taking an iron supplement daily due to my bloodwork stating I am anemic (as are many women) and a multivitamin to help replenish nutrients and support overall energy levels, and maintain bone health during my cycle. Magnesium is known to help relax muscles and reduce cramping.
Herbal Teas: I’m trying Chinese Red Date Tea on next cycle as it is said to be soothing and can help with pain relief.
Exercise: Light yoga or stretching helps improve circulation and ease cramps. However, I am the type of person who needs to feel the burn to feel like I’ve worked out, so I stick to my regular workout practices of Lagree, reformer Pilates, running, and weight training. These workouts not only keep me active but also help alleviate cramps and improve circulation during my cycle.
Essential Oils: The lavender and peppermint-infused pads from Honey Pot always feel calming, so I initially tried the method of solely applying the Wood Lock Medicated Oil during my menstrual cycle to see if it makes a noticeable difference. Unfortunately, the Wood Lock Medicated Oil did not aid my pain at all which is concentrated in my lumbar area. What did aid my pain was Tiger Balm Ultra Strength. I kept reapplying it as needed, and it made a significant difference each application.
For those who experience menstrual pain in the stomach area, I recommend trying lavender and peppermint essential oils to my painful areas in conjunction with the Wood Lock Medicated Oil as it might provide relief for that specific type of discomfort.
Chinese Red Date Tea
While researching alternatives to ibuprofen for supporting my body during menstruation, I came across a traditional Chinese remedy that piqued my interest. This tea is made with ingredients known for their nourishing and comforting properties during your cycle. Here’s the recipe:
Ingredients:
Chinese red dates
Goji berries
Ginger
Chinese brown sugar
Instructions:
Boil all the ingredients together and drink the tea while it’s hot.
Although I haven’t tried this tea yet, I plan to incorporate it into my next cycle and share my experience with you all! (Link to the TikTok video here.)
Final Thoughts
Transitioning to zero-waste menstrual care has been one of the most empowering and cost-effective decisions I’ve made. It’s not just about protecting the environment but also prioritizing my health. Finding the right products takes trial and error, but the journey is worth it. Let’s continue these conversations, share tips, and create a more sustainable future—one cycle at a time.
