Feminine hygiene – why make the switch to organic?

fieldMany of us are aware that the products we buy can have positive and negative impacts on our health and the environment. But how many of us have ever considered our monthly sanitary products? Given that women might use anything between 11,000 and 17,000 feminine hygiene products during her life, it’s definitely worth taking a few minutes to think about…

Surprisingly, listing ingredients on feminine hygiene products is not mandatory, and manufacturers often do not reveal the composition. In general, sanitary napkins and panty liners are made from approximately 90% plastic, synthetic materials, perfumes, colorants and latex. Meanwhile, tampons contain chlorine bleached rayon, and pesticide sprayed cotton.

The impact on health

Research, conducted by feminine hygiene brand Natracare, revealed that women often suffer from increased irritation and pain during menstruation. One gynaecologist in six found that their patients’ symptoms were at their peak during menstruation, indicating a possible link with their sanitary protection. It is recommended to those suffering from vaginal irritation to reduce contact with synthetic materials and latex. Choose your sanitary products carefully!

The environmental impact

Every year more than 45 million feminine hygiene products are thrown into the environment, of which about 90% are made from plastic and most are chlorine bleached. The degradation time is estimated between 300-400 years. But although degraded, plastic stays in the environment forever, with harmful consequences for soil, oceans and animals. Dioxin, a by-product of chlorine bleaching used to purify conventional brands, pollutes air, water, soil, flora and even our bodies.

Alternatives

natracare-logoDon’t panic, there are alternatives! Natracare products are made respectfully taking into consideration the environment and women’s health. The Natracare range offers tampons, sanitary pads and panty liners manufactured only from certified organic cotton and sustainable and renewable natural materials that are biodegradable and compostable and they are totally chlorine free. The products are approved by the Vegetarian Society and independently accredited for their environmental impact.

The history of Natracare is unique. It was created over 25 years ago by a fervent environmentalist concerned about dioxins and plastics found in sanitary protection. The launch of the range was a direct response to these concerns and became the first brand in the world to offer natural and organic tampons and sanitary napkins.

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