Tigist Ashaka | Staff Writer
Periods. Something women get every month and a topic that men get so uncomfortable talking about. So let’s talk about it. What is really in the products? Many pads have toxic chemicals which cause damage to the body. Why are we using products that have a heavy chemical base? There are many reasons why we should use organic products when it is that time of the month. One reason is that it is good for the environment and also for your health.
According to the World Health Organization, many pads and tampons contain chemicals such as dioxins, furans, pesticide residues and fragrance ingredients that can cause hormone issues. These chemicals can cause problems with your immune system, developmental problems, and reproductive problems such as endometriosis, painful periods and even infertility. Dioxins are absorbed through the tissues of the vagina and can introduce these hazardous chemicals into our bloodstream.
Hampton University student Angela Session, a second-year Cybersecurity major on the Criminal Justice track, said, “since I started using organic pads, my period has been shorter and wasn’t as heavy as it used to be.”
Another student at Hampton, Aijeé Morris, a senior Criminal Justice major, said “I’ve used both organic pads and tampons. With organic pads, there’s no itching or irritation, and my flow usually is lighter than it is when I use commercial brand pads.”
Some other students know the benefits of using organic products but haven’t transitioned yet because they want to make sure that they have found the right products that fit their needs.
“I don’t use organic pads, but I want to because I’ve heard of how unhealthy regular pads are,” said Sydni Saunders, a third-year psychology major from Hampton. “I am only apprehensive about using them because I want to make sure I get the right ones.”
There are many organic products women can use. One of the most popular is a company called The Honey Pot. The Honey Pot is the world’s first plant-based feminine care line and was created by Beatrice Dixon, a Black woman. Additionally, Ruby Love is a period panty that provides “first-time kits” for teens.
These are just two Black-owned products you can try out, but there are more. Find what fits you the best, whether it is a pad, tampon, period panty or even a dive cup. Most importantly, make sure it is organic and free of harsh chemicals!
The Hampton Script 