Here Are Five Products That Are Revolutionizing Menstrual Care
They’re bloody good.
There’s no denying it – those of who have to deal with periods can safely say it’s not exactly the best time of the month. Whilst everyone deals with the side effects to varying degrees, whether it’s cripplingly painful cramps, lethargy, general crankiness or a monstrous appetite for any and all junk food, we can all agree that it’s truly a mentally and physically exhausting time.
Luckily, there are a few companies out there that understand and are working on new, innovative products and initiatives designed especially to make menstruation that little bit better. From monthly subscription boxes that contain everything you’ll need for “Aunt Flo” to gadgets that relieve menstrual pain, we’ve rounded up five products that will help ensure you have a bloody good time, every time – read on for more.
Lunette
Menstrual cups have been around for a while, but remain relatively under-the-radar as their popularity is overshadowed by the sanitary staples; tampons and towels. As people become more aware of the impact that the products they use have on the environment, however, Lunette is the obvious eco-friendly choice. The small, reusable cup can collect menstrual blood for up to 12 hours, and usually requires emptying only around 2-4 times a day. The bonus is, you’ll never be caught out if you keep the cup with you, it can safely be washed and re-used, time and time again.
Pink Parcel
You can get a monthly subscription box for pretty much anything it seems, from bite-sized beauty products to Japanese candy. Pink Parcel basically applies that same strategy and delivers a box each month that will make you feel that little bit better about getting your period. Packed with practical items like tampons and sanitary towels (you can choose according to your personal preferences) as well as goodies like herbal tea, artisanal chocolates and beauty essentials, Pink Parcel helps realign your mindset around periods; knowing this box of treats will be on its way to you makes you (almost) look forward to Mother Nature’s call.
THINX
THINX is honestly a revelation when it comes to menstrual care – it’s self-titled as “period-proof underwear” and that’s exactly what it is. The underwear comes in the usual fits, including briefs and thongs, and features a patented four-layer technology to ensure you stay comfortable and leak-free. Each product holds a differing volume of blood, so you can pick and choose depending on your flow and you can either use them as an alternative to traditional products or for additional protection. They’re not particularly pricey either in comparison to other underwear brands and of course, they have the added benefit of not being ruined by unexpected periods too.
FLEX
To put it in the most simplest form, Flex is essentially an alternative tampon. It might look odd at first, but the plastic disc kind of sits at the same place a tampon would and you can comfortably wear FLEX for up to 12 hours at a time. Although it’s a disposable item, so it’s not especially environmentally-friendly, a celebrated aspect of FLEX is that it really doesn’t prevent you from any activities that more widely-available products may hinder – you can go swimming, workout and even have sex without the fear of menstrual mess.
Livia
While some lucky women may get through their periods with minimal discomfort, others can suffer from debilitating cramps and pain that gets in the way of their everyday life. Painkillers can help to an extent, but they’re not always effective. A handy little electronic gadget that’s offering a new resolution is Livia. The tiny, iPod shuffle-esque device sends pulses to your nerves, effectively closing the “pain gates” to your brain and resulting in instant reduction and even elimination of menstrual pain. All you have to do is attach the two enclosed gel stickers to wherever it hurts, clip on the usb-charged Livia and hit go – you can even adjust the pulse settings to be as gentle or intense as you require. While it may not completely eradicate severe cramps, many reviewers have preached about this nifty little device allowing them to navigate their period minus the pain.