Elevate Difference

Washable Menstrual Pads

A few years ago I started vibing on the eco-feminist tip by using re-usable, washable menstrual pads and the DivaCup, a tampon substitute that catches menstrual fluid in a small, silicone container that you insert into the vaginal canal. Both methods are an excellent way to be good to the environment, and your own body.

At first, I was skeptical. I'm not the earth goddess type that you might expect to be pimping these products. In fact, I had a lot of questions about the practicality of use. How does this thing work again? Will these really be as easy as using disposable pads? What do I do if I need to change my pad at work, school, a restaurant, or a party? I thought of every excuse in the book, but finally realized that this not-so-old dog just needed to learn a few tricks.

I figured out how to use these gizmos in a way that worked for me, and you know what the best part is? I've saved a ton of money! Ladies, you know how friggin’ expensive disposable pads and tampons are, and let me tell you, convenience just ain't worth that much cheddar. Sure, buying a monthly stock of LunaPads and a DivaCup is a bit of an upfront investment, but think of it like buying a house; it's totally worth it to not pay rent to some skeezy landlord who won't even return your calls when the radiator's on the fritz again. And with the holidays coming up, you can always tell your friends and fam to pop for a gift that keeps on giving.

Now after several years of use, I'm a walking advertisement for this company. In fact, they should be paying me for all of the positive publicity I throw their way, not to mention all of the pads I've bought to get my friends hooked too. I always did find myself on the giving end of peer pressure.

Final thought: you know how there are all of these commercials that pimp menstrual products with pearls and wings and all that stuff? Well, LunaPads have bells and whistles too; leopard print, hearts, polka dots, flowers, and other fabulous designs can match your menstrual moods, and they have plenty of different sizes to suit your flow. They even have panties! So, what are you waiting for? Support Canada’s economy and get yer LunaPad on!

Written by: Mandy Van Deven, December 10th 2006

ahhh this is gross! Why don't you want to buy throw away pads?

making your own pads is pretty easy - check out the zine, 'fire down below' - for a buck they send you the pattern - well worth your time and effort.