Herts Sustainable Periods

How long can you wear period pants for?

This depends on your flow and the style you choose. For example, some pairs of briefs hold two tampons worth of blood, some full briefs hold up to five tampons worth of blood. Check with the manufacturers and read online reviews. Depending on your flow and the style, one pair should last about 12 hours.

Are period pants unhygienic?

No. Period pants are super-absorbent and sweat-wicking to keep you clean and dry. Research has shown that additives designed to neutralise bad odours and bacteria are largely ineffective and not needed if pads and pants are changed frequently. More information about period pants can be found on the Wen Environmenstrual website

How do I wash them?

Simply rinse under the cold tap, then add them to your usual dark wash on a 30 to 40 degree cycle. Some brands recommend washing on a cold cycle instead. Always check the leaflet or manufacturer’s website for instructions.

Don’t use fabric softener, as this can affect the absorbency of the product over time. Using a delicates bag can help make them last even longer. Let them air dry before using them again.

Are period pants good for incontinence?

Yes. If you suffer from continence problems, period pants are an effective and sustainable way to prevent leaks and keep you comfortable and dry.

Where can I buy them?

Online: Wuka, Thinx, Mobi, Flux, Earthwise, The Period Lady and many more.

In Store: Primark, M&S, Sainsburys, Victoria’s Secret and more.

Grab a HERTS discount: apply for 15% off with our partnering suppliers if you’re a Herts resident

 
How long can I wear reusable pads for?

This really varies depending on your flow and the absorbency you choose but will be similar to disposable pads. Most people will probably need to change around every four to five hours. Many brands sell wet bags so you can pop used pads in there until you get home.

How do I wash them?

Simply rinse under the cold tap, then add them to your usual dark wash on a 30 to 40 degree cycle. Some brands recommend washing on a cold cycle instead. Always check the leaflet or manufacturer’s website for instructions.

Don’t use fabric softener, as this can affect the absorbency of the product over time. Using a delicates bag can also help make them last even longer. Let them air dry before using them again.

Grab a HERTS discount: apply for 15% off with our partnering suppliers if you’re a Herts resident

 
How long can you leave a cup in?

This depends on your flow but generally they can be left in for between 6 and 12 hours (check with the manufacturer), compared with 4-8 hours for a tampon so they are great for out and about, at work/school and at night.

Are menstrual cups unhygienic?

No. Menstrual cups are very hygienic as you sanitise it between periods and wash between uses. Always wash your hands before handling the cup and follow the manufacturer’s guidance for proper cleaning.

How do I empty it?

To remove the cup, wash your hands first, then pinch the base of the cup to break the seal and gently pull to remove it. It’s generally best to do this over a toilet. Then empty the blood into the toilet. If you have access to a sink, wash it under the tap and reinsert. If you’re out and about, you can either take a bottle of water into the toilet cubicle or just use toilet paper to wipe it. You can give it a proper clean when you get home.

How do I sterilise the cup between periods?

You can either boil it in water for a few minutes or use a sterilising cup which you fill with water and put in the microwave for 3-4 minutes. Check the information in the leaflet or manufacturer’s website for more information.

Where can I buy them?

The Mooncup is the only brand that is manufactured in the UK and is made from medical grade silicone. It comes in Size A for those over 30 or have given birth vaginally, or Size B for those under 30 who have not given birth vaginally.

There are many other cups on the market. The Period Lady is a UK business and has a great selection and offers advice on choosing the right cup for you.

Grab a HERTS discount: apply for 15% off with our partnering suppliers if you’re a Herts resident

How menstrual cups work

A menstrual cup is a flexible cup that’s designed for use internally during your period to collect blood. The cup doesn’t absorb your flow like tampons so there’s a much lower risk of toxic shock syndrome.

Most cups are made of medical grade silicone or rubber.

Advantages of using a cup

• Lower cost - cups are designed for long term use, most will last years providing a significant cost saving over tampons and pads.
• Less landfill waste - Since you reuse them there is less waste to clog up drains or to be sent to landfill and fewer trees cut down to make paper based alternatives.
• No odour - fluid doesn’t get exposed to air like with pads.
• Easy to use - Simply fold it so it looks like a tampon, aim it towards the back of the vagina and give it a little push, much like inserting a non-applicator tampon. Most manufacturers have excellent guides on their websites.
• Unlike tampons, cups don’t absorb blood, they collect it meaning they won’t dry your vagina like tampons do. This helps to protect against infections as well as toxic shock syndrome (TSS).
• Can be more practical for some activities such as swimming and other water sports
• They can be worn for up to 12 hours (check with the manufacturer) so can be left in all day with little need to change them in public bathrooms or when nowhere near a toilet.

 
How do they work?

Hold between your thumb and forefinger to squeeze and insert it by gliding it back and down towards your tailbone, then push the front rim to tuck it up. The Disc is flat and held in place naturally so there is no suction. To remove, simply untuck the front rim and gently pull out.

How do you clean them?

Check for information with the supplier and follow instructions. You should clean your disc before the first use of every cycle by placing it in boiling water for 5 minutes to sterilise. Wash it each time you empty it before re-inserting.

How long can I wear it for?

You can wear menstrual discs for up to 12 hours and they hold up to 4 tampons worth of period blood. However please check instructions and recommendations from the supplier.

Where can I buy one from?  

Online: Nixit, The Period Lady, Lumma, Intimina.

Grab a HERTS discount: apply for 15% off with our partnering suppliers if you’re a Herts resident

 
How do they work?

They work in the same way as regular tampon applicators, you purchase tampons without applicators and simply insert the tampon into the reusable applicator and use as normal. Once used, simply dispose of the tampon in a bin (never flush them), then wash the applicator and put it away for next time.

How long does it last?

While you need to change your tampon every 4 – 8 hours, the reusable applicator can last up to 10 years.

Where can I buy them?

Online: Dame, Lil-lets

Grab a HERTS discount: apply for 15% off with our partnering suppliers if you’re a Herts resident