The Shocking Amount Of Plastic In Sanitary Pads

Plastic-filled pads can irritate the skin and cause sweating. They also contribute to the growing problem of plastic pollution. A study by Natracare found that a pack of conventional period pads contains the same amount of plastic as five carrier bags. This amounts to 2.4g of plastic per pad, with 11,000 menstrual pads used in a lifetime. While biodegradable and plastic-free alternatives are available, they can be expensive and hard to find. In this discussion, it is important to consider the role of governments and companies in providing sustainable and affordable menstrual products.

Plastic-free pads

The benefits of using plastic-free pads are twofold. Firstly, they are better for the environment as they do not contribute to the vast amounts of plastic waste that end up in landfills and the natural environment. Secondly, they are better for personal health as conventional plastic-filled pads can irritate the skin, causing sweating and discomfort.

In addition to plastic-free pads, there is also a growing interest in reusable pads, which provide a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to disposable pads.

Plastic in conventional pads

Plastic-filled pads can irritate the skin and cause sweating and discomfort. They are also bad for the environment. A recent study by Natracare found that a pack of conventional period pads contains the equivalent amount of plastic as five carrier bags. On average, there are 36g of plastic in every packet of period pads, which is 2.4g of plastic per pad and 2.5g for the outer pack. This means that the amount of plastic period waste has increased in recent years. The average pad user will go through 11,000 pads in a lifetime, which is the equivalent of 4,125 plastic carrier bags entering the environment per person.

Plastic-filled pads will remain in the natural environment for at least 500 years. They are not breathable, so there is a risk of irritation. Airflow is essential when wearing something against such an intimate and sensitive area of the body for hours. Natalie Fee, the founder of City to Sea, a non-profit organisation campaigning against plastic pollution, commented: "These figures are shocking – they really highlight the need for our Plastic Free Periods campaign."

The reasons plastic has become so prevalent in pad design are tangled in a web of culture, shame, science, and more. Pads generally incorporate plastic from the leak-proof base to the synthetics that soak up fluid to the packaging. In the US, most menstrual fluid ends up on a pad, and after their brief moment of utility, those products usually end up in the trash.

There are alternatives to plastic-filled pads. Natracare, for example, produces plastic-free, organic cotton tampons and pads that are home-compostable. Other eco-friendly versions sell for between 52 and 80 cents per pad. Saathi pads, for example, retail at 30 cents per pad. However, some products that claim to be biodegradable are not 100 per cent so, and some may use organic cotton for one layer but still contain plastic and other chemicals.

Plastic waste from pads

A recent study by Natracare, a plastic-free personal care brand, found that a pack of conventional period pads contains the equivalent plastic of five carrier bags. On average, each pad contains 2.4g of plastic, with 2.5g in the outer pack. This amounts to 4,125 plastic carrier bags entering the environment per person over a lifetime of pad use.

The plastic content in pads can cause skin irritation and discomfort for users. Additionally, the lack of breathability in plastic-filled pads can lead to a sweaty and unpleasant feeling. These issues can be mitigated by using plastic-free pads made from natural materials such as organic cotton and wood pulp, which are breathable and gentler on the skin.

To address the environmental impact of plastic pads, some companies are developing innovative solutions. For example, researchers are exploring the use of food waste and protein biomass to create biodegradable pads that can be flushed or used as fertilizer. Other options include washable and reusable pads, which offer a more sustainable alternative to single-use plastic products.

While progress is being made, there is still a need for better regulation to discourage the use of certain plastics in sanitary products and promote sustainable alternatives. Full disclosure of ingredients on product packaging should be mandated to empower consumers to make informed choices.

Biodegradable pads

Conventional period pads contain a surprising amount of plastic. A study by Natracare found that a pack of conventional period pads contains the equivalent amount of plastic as five carrier bags. This amounts to 36g of plastic in every packet of period pads, or 2.4g of plastic per pad. This means that the average pad user will go through 11,000 menstrual pads in a lifetime, resulting in a substantial amount of plastic waste.

To address this issue, several companies offer biodegradable pads as a more environmentally friendly alternative. Biodegradable pads are typically made from natural materials such as organic cotton, bamboo, and banana fiber. These materials are gentle on the skin and provide a breathable barrier, reducing the risk of irritation. Some popular brands offering biodegradable pads include Natracare, TOTM, Saathi, and Pee Safe. These brands are committed to creating plastic-free, certified organic, and compostable products.

For example, Saathi pads from India are made with bamboo and banana fiber, offering a natural and eco-friendly option. Similarly, Pee Safe biodegradable pads are crafted with 100% organic cotton and FSC-certified bamboo fiber for extra leakage protection. These pads are individually wrapped in disposable bags and are free of chemicals, ensuring a comfortable and rash-free experience.

Another notable brand is Anandi, which offers India's first and only certified 100% compostable and biodegradable sanitary pads. Anandi pads are free of harsh chemicals, fragrances, toxins, and plastics, making them hypoallergenic and gentle on the skin. They also contribute to social initiatives, donating compostable pads to underprivileged girls in remote villages through their #freedomfromshame initiative.

By choosing biodegradable pads, individuals can reduce their plastic waste and contribute to a more sustainable future. These eco-friendly alternatives offer a comfortable and safe option without compromising the health of the planet. With growing awareness and a shift in consumer preferences, we can expect to see more innovative and environmentally conscious menstrual products on the market.

Reusable pads

Some people may be concerned about the hassle of washing reusable pads, or the discomfort of carrying around a used pad. However, reusable pads are washable and can be thrown in the wash after use, making them convenient and easy to care for. For those who are concerned about carrying a used pad, there are options to use period underwear with a pad, or to use a waterproof bag to store the pad until it can be washed.

Frequently asked questions