Are sanitary pads environment-friendly?
Source: https://en.baaghitv.com/are-sanitary-pads-environment-friendly/
Author: Sanniah Hassan
While access to sanitary pads is easier in contrast to other hygiene-specific products such as tampons or menstrual cups, they are very much made of approximately ninety percent plastic and chemicals – and are toxic not only to our health but also to the environment. Additionally, most mass-produced pads available to women often lead to allergies, UTIs (Urinary Tract Infections), and irritation in the vaginal area. Over time, these may even lead to cancer. Experts argue that once disposed of, pads can between 600 to 800 years to decompose, which is another downside to using them. This also means that they are not biodegradable. Even if brands promote their product as eco-friendly and biodegradable, sanitary pads are not 100 percent compostable. Then comes the problem of disposing of the pads. While the easiest method is to fold the used pad and wrap it in the paper/plastic covering of the new pad, women should always make sure to throw them either in a dustbin with a lid or in a separate disposal bag. This is to make sure pads are disposed of separately from the rest of the trash. But no matter what you do, do not flush them down the toilet. Not only is this extremely unhygienic, but it will also eventually result in plumbing issues.