Over the few years, we have become vocal about menstruation and related subjects. There is a development and an understanding which is growing in the society, however, in many parts of the country, it is still a taboo and where the society has time and again failed to understand the plight a woman and what she goes through when treated differently on those specific days of the month. Back in January, I wrote about how menstruation is a natural biological process which is viewed in unnatural light in India and a natural process like menstruation is looked down upon but today on the occasion of Menstrual Hygiene Day, I'm attempting to raise awareness on the use of organic napkins, which prove to be better than the bio-degradable options available for all of us.
Keeping the growing menace of pollution in mind, it has become necessary for us to switch to organic sanitary napkins. Further, women in urban areas have switched to a new availability as the bio-degradable pads have been reported to pose a great risk on women's health.
Nishant Bangera actively manages an initiative named ‘A Period of Sharing’ where he supplies sanitary napkins to underprivileged girls also suggesting them to switch to sustainable options such as cloth pads and menstrual cups owing to Dioxins.
Talking about his step towards bringing a change, Bangera said, "We recommend women to use cloth pads or menstrual cups as they are not only comfortable and environment-friendly, but also are free of toxins unlike DSNs. There is a lot of research conducted on the same that proves that Commercial Disposable Sanitary Napkins have toxins such as Dioxins which are extremely harmful. The vaginal skin of women is highly permeable and lets the chemicals find its way inside the body. Besides, the menstrual waste generated has been adding pressure on the existing conditions in landfills. Even today, some people continue to burn them releasing harmful chemicals in the air. DSNs also impact the lives of the sanitary workers as they have to manually handle the soiled napkins,” said Bangera.
In order to raise awareness about sustainable options, Bangera, and his team recently organised Maasika Mahotsav, an 8-day festival where they attempted to break the taboo related to menses with the help of arts and music.
There is lack of awareness as far as disadvantages of DSNs and advantages of sustainable options are concerned. Biodegradable napkins may not be termed as a sustainable option as that may not be affordable for women from lower economic background. Under 'A Period of Sharing' and through 'Maasika Mahotsav,' we aim to create awareness about Sustainable Options,” Bangera added.
Biodegradable napkins take many years to decompose, and this is one reason why one needs to switch to organic napkins. According to a report mentioned in the Clean India Journal, one woman can generate up to 125 kg of non-biodegradable waste through her menstruating years alone and each of the soiled napkins would take anywhere from 500-800 years to decompose. Approximately 58 per cent of 350 million women in India use sanitary napkins. The report also cited that around 9000 tonnes of sanitary waste (432 million pads) is being generated annually in India.
If you wish to switch to organic options, here are some you can opt for
1. Anandi pads-
These pads are fully biodegradable in compostable conditions and ensure minimal damage to the environment. One can contact them at- info@aakarinnovations.com.
2. Ecofemme-
These are not made of plastic but are made of cloth. They can be washed and re-used for years and are made of a natural material which is good for women’s health. One can buy Ecofemme pads by calling them on 94871 79556
3. Menstrual cups-
These cups are made of medical grade silicone that collects blood when it is inserted into the vagina. The reason it is hygienic is that in comparison to napkins, there is no foul smell, rashes or itchiness. One buy it online through popular e-retailers.
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