Our blog post today is brought to you by the team over at Flax Sleep.

Your period is nothing to lose sleep over, but unfortunately, menstruation and overheated, uncomfortable and disrupted sleeps often go hand-in-hand. While there are a number of factors that could cause sporadic and sudden temperature increases in the time around or during your period, hormones are often a key player in that game. Here are a few at-home remedies to help you limit those side effects and grab some much needed zzz’s.

Limit Your Caffeine Intake

Aside from blocking sleep-inducing chemicals in the brain, caffeine produces adrenaline and increases the heart rate - two things that definitely do not equal a good night’s sleep. The faster your heart rate is at the time you’re trying to doze off, the more likely you are to sweat and overheat. While it’s a good idea in general to steer clear of caffeine during menstruation in order to reduce cramping, abstaining may also help you keep those night sweats at bay.

Stay Calm

Easier said than done, right? We’ve all been there - not being able to fall asleep because you’re stressing and then stressing out more because you can’t fall asleep. It’s a sweaty, unpleasant and frustrating cycle that’s a tough one to break. Since stress is one of the main reasons why folks have a hard time falling asleep under any circumstances, finding a way to wind down and relax is absolutely beneficial to a good night’s sleep. Whether it’s something as simple as taking deep breaths or putting on audio of falling rain or other relaxing noises, it’s important to be mindful of your stress levels and to take the time to center yourself.

Avoid Eating Heavy Foods Before Bed

While you sleep, your body is still very much on the clock. Therefore, being mindful of what you eat directly before heading off to bed could help you get a better night’s sleep. Digesting and processing food takes energy and energy generates heat. Consuming foods that are high in saturated fats or animal proteins right before dozing off means that your body is going to kick things into digestion high gear and use an increased amount of energy, which ultimately contributes to overheated sleeps.

Go Au Naturel

A few practical changes to your bedroom and bedtime routine can make a big difference when it comes to temperature regulation while you snooze. Synthetic materials are more likely to trap in heat and make you sweat, so it’s best to avoid those as much as possible. Instead, opt for loose-fitting pajamas made out of natural fabrics and bedding made out of breathable, cooling fabrics such as linen.

Menstruation takes it out of you, plain and simple. Keeping cool, calm and collected during this time can seem daunting and unattainable (especially in the summertime), but with a few small actions, you’ll soon be on your way to a better night’s sleep.

The internet is great and all, but If you are experiencing severe and uncharacteristic overheating and sleep disturbances during menstruation, please go see your doctor to ensure that you are a-okay.

Photo by Kinga Cichewicz on Unsplash

With so many types of reusable products out there, it can be tricky to figure out which ones to invest in! Since switching to reusables comes with a bit of a learning curve, one of the best things to do is find a product that suits your current lifestyle.

So let’s break it down and take a look at what kind of products you might use, depending on your flow.

Menstrual CupThe menstrual cup is a powerhouse, and if you were looking for just one product to carry you through your entire period, this would be it! The Aisle cup comes in two sizes, holds up to 30ml of fluid, and can be worn for up to 12 hours so you can sleep, swim, stretch & slay all day.

Best for:

• Moderate - Heavy Flow
• Physical activities (think swimming, hiking, etc)
• Overnight

Things to consider:

There’s a bit of a learning curve associated with inserting and removing the cup without making a mess, but there are a lot of great tutorials out there that will help you with that! It’s best to practise insertion/removal around the house so that you feel confident and comfortable with the whole affair before attempting it out in the wild!

Cups are meant to form a seal that prevents leaks, but if you’re worried about leakage of any kind, wearing a liner or period undies as a backup is a great option!

If you’ve got a tilted uterus, a cup might not sit right. You’re not meant to notice it when it’s inserted properly, so if it’s causing you pain or discomfort of any kind, you might have to consider contacting your OB-GYN or trying a different style of cup or menstrual product.

You can totally wear a cup on lighter flow days as well! I just find that I personally don’t like having anything inserted when my flow is really light, I’d rather just use a liner or pair of undies. 

Period Undies
Ok, so maybe we’re a little biased, but we love our undies. With two tampons’ worth of absorbency in the gusset itself, plus the flexibility of being able to add another two tampons’ worth with the included booster, the undies are just really versatile!

Best for:

• Light - Heavy Flow
• Binging shows on netflix, riding your new bike around town, and socially-distanced park hang-outs.
• Overnight (Specifically, the Boxers!)

Things to consider:

If you have an especially heavy flow, you might want to pick up some extra boosters for your undies! They’re really easy to swap in and out, and doing so will keep you feeling fresh all day without having to change the whole pair of underwear throughout the day. 

The absorbent panel on our boxer cut goes all the way up the front and back of the undies, so they’re great for feeling secure while you sleep!

If you want to transition to only using undies for your period, it can be a pretty big investment up front! You can always try swapping out a couple of days for reusables to start, and then once you figure out what suits you best add more products to your roster later. It’s a big transition! You don’t have to swap over all at once. 

PadsOur pads combine edge-to-edge leak protection with a patented cotton top layer that wicks fluid away from your body, all while feeling like your comfiest pair of cotton undies. They hold up to 4 tampons’ worth of fluid and come in various lengths: Mini (8”), Maxi (10”), and Super (13”).

Best for:

• Moderate - Heavy Flow
• Strolls around town, or your 8th Zoom call of the day
• Easy transition to reusables

Things to consider:

Since our reusable pads are the most similar to their disposable counterparts, these might be the easiest jumping off point for your transition to reusables! They also have a lower price point, so you can try them out without breaking the bank in a big way. (When I made the switch to reusables back in university, I started with reusable pads!)

Since they don’t have any adhesive on the back, it’s good to wear them with a close-fitting pair of undies, to ensure they don’t slide around. If you’re worried about coverage, you might want to consider getting a size up from the length you would normally get.

These work great for bladder leaks as well! And, if you’re looking for an overnight pad option, you definitely can’t go wrong with the Super.

LinersOur liners combine ultra-thin leak protection with a patented, high-performance cotton top layer, so they’re perfect for your lightest days or to have with you just in case. They also come in two lengths!

Best for:

• Light Flow
• Back up for a cup or tampon
• In case of emergencies!

Things to consider:

You’ll need to pair liners with some other form of protection on your heavy flow days! They’re super thin, but that also means that they’re not as absorbent as our other products. 

These are great for small bladder leaks as well as spotting.

Remember:

Your period, your body, your rules!

It’s totally ok if you just can’t get behind using a cup even if your friends rave about how much they love theirs. It’s also all good to take your time and try different options to see what suits your lifestyle best. At the end of the day, you want a product that helps you feel comfortable and confident, no matter your flow. 

An estimated 1 out of 5 folks with a uterus have what is known as a tilted uterus, and they might not even know it! Here’s everything you need to know about having a tilted uterus, including causes and the potential effects it can have on menstruation and conception. 

What is a tilted uterus?

A uterus can lean forward, called an anteverted uterus, or backward towards the rectum, which is known as a retroverted uterus. While a forward-leaning uterus is considered “typical,” approximately 20 percent of folks with a uterus have a retroverted tilt. Other names for a tilted uterus include a backward uterus, retroflexed uterus, and uterine retroversion. 

What causes a tilted uterus?

For most people, a tilted uterus is simply a physical variance that one is born with (other individuals may develop a tilted uterus as they grow older). While less common, a tilted uterus can also be caused by fibroids, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, pelvic surgery, and pregnancy (due to ligaments surrounding the uterus over-lengthening during the gestation period). If you’re unsure whether or not you have a tilted uterus and you’re comfortable having a pelvic exam, your physician can easily check to see how your uterus is positioned. 

Does a tilted uterus have an effect on menstruation?

The vast majority of people with a tilted uterus won’t experience any disruptions in their menstrual cycle. Despite this, there are some folks who may encounter exacerbated cramps or lower back pain before and during menstruation due to the position of their uterus. It is very common for those with a tilted uterus to have trouble using tampons or a menstrual cup. In fact, many people inadvertently discover they have a tilted uterus after repeatedly struggling to insert a tampon or menstrual cup. If these types of menstrual products are used, folks are more likely to experience leakage because of how the uterus is positioned.

What are some other symptoms of having a tilted uterus?

There are many people who have a tilted uterus who don’t realize it; that is to say, there are plenty of folks who won’t experience any of the following symptoms. Others might encounter one or several symptoms — the presence or frequency is entirely dependent on the individual’s unique body.

Pain during penetrative vaginal sex

Having a tilted uterus can make certain penetrative sex positions uncomfortable or even painful. The positions themselves vary and are deeply personal, but certain sex postions — such as from behind, reverse cowgirl, or any position that emphasizes deep thrusting — seem to be particularly problematic. Again, this is dependent on many individual factors, so an open dialogue with your partner is the best way to enjoy pain-free and pleasurable sex.

Difficulty conceiving

It’s important to note that most people don’t have trouble conceiving due to having a tilted uterus. Complications can arise if a tilted uterus is the result of fibroids, endometriosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease. If having a tilted uterus is having a negative effect on efforts to conceive, minor surgery is sometimes recommended to remove excess scar tissue surrounding the uterus. 

Other symptoms of having a tilted uterus include:

• increased frequency of UTIs
• issues with incontinence
• lower back pain when pregnant or menstruating

On the whole, a tilted uterus is nothing to worry about! However, if suspect that you have a tilted uterus and it's affecting your ability to go about your day-to-day life, be sure to get in touch with your doctor or OB-GYN.

Ashley Linkletter is a mental health, food, and nutrition writer based in Vancouver, BC. 

Photo by Nick de Partee on Unsplash

Weeks ago, a once-beloved children’s book author sent a tweet she seemed to think was clever or funny. Replying to an article about creating a more equal post-COVID-19 world for people who menstruate, J.K. Rowling wrote, “‘People who menstruate.’ I’m sure there used to be a word for those people. Someone help me out. Wumben? Wimpund? Woomud?” 

The tweet sparked immediate backlash from followers who saw her “funny” words for what they really are: an invalidation of transgender people. 

“What's happening right now with J.K. Rowling and the trans-exclusionary folks who have said very clearly that the only people they consider to be women are people who have uteruses is really painful,” says Tess, a transgender woman and professor of informatics. 

It’s painful for transgender men and nonbinary people who have uteruses and are hearing that their body parts define their gender. And it’s also painful for transgender women like Tess, who don’t have uteruses and don’t bleed on a monthly cycle, but who are women and many of whom do have a period. “As a trans woman, obviously you don't have a monthly bleeding cycle, you don't have a uterus, you don't have ovaries. But you'll hear trans women talk a lot about having their periods,” says Meghan, a transgender woman and officer in the Royal Canadian Navy.

We’ve spoken with six transgender women, including Tess and Meghan, about their experiences with menstruation, from dysphoria to PMS. Read their stories below: 

On periods and pregnancy: 

Many of the transgender women we spoke to said they never felt much dysphoria around menstruation itself, but did start feeling dysphoric when they connected periods with pregnancy. 

“It’s very confusing to feel the urge to have a child when you can’t,” says Mia, author of Yes, You Are Trans Enough. Some of the women pointed out that this is also true for cisgender women who struggle with fertility — yet, their inability to menstruate and to conceive a child doesn’t negate their womanhood.

Yet others watched their partners through pregnancy and birth, and felt a longing for that experience. “My body regrets not being able to have children. When my wife and I were planning to start a family, I was much more interested in childbearing,” Tess says. “She said, ‘I guess we could have switched.’ I would have done so in a heartbeat.” At the time, Tess wouldn’t have described wishing that she could switch places with her pregnant wife as dysphoria. “But I can retroactively understand what I felt as a form of dysphoria. While my wife was pregnant, when she was breastfeeding, I strongly empathized with her, and identified with her, and felt blocked from being able to do so because I was still presenting male.”

Meghan has a similar experience. Thinking about periods leads her to thinking about pregnancy, and even though she and her wife have three children, she feels like she missed out on experiencing pregnancy for herself. 

For Aurelia, who works in tech policy, wanting to be able to get pregnant led to obsessive thoughts about periods. “I had a real fixation prior to coming out and realizing that I was trans about being able to have kids and therefore have a period as symbolic of that,” she says. “It was this thing I was endlessly curious about and endlessly fascinated about. I thought it would be nice to have that cycle.” 

On clueless things cisgender women say (but shouldn’t): 

“The only negative emotions I’ve had relating to periods is when cis women tell me I’m ‘lucky’ for not having them,” Mia says. She understands that it’s meant to be a joke about how terrible periods are, but it’s a hurtful comment nonetheless. “If I had a choice of my body having a period or not I’d choose not, but if you take a second to think about why I don’t have one it’s because my body can’t bear children. There’s nothing ‘lucky’ about that,” she says. 

Even well-meaning cisgender women say hurtful things like this to transgender women about menstruation. “It's similar to the first time you get catcalled as a trans woman or the first time you get talked over at a meeting or interrupted. A well-meaning cis friend will say, ‘Welcome to being a woman.’ And that can be problematic because I have experienced being a woman and not being seen as a woman for years. And these things make it seem like my womanhood is contingent upon presentation,” Tess says. 

On PMS symptoms: 

Meghan was once in the camp that trans women can’t experience PMS. “I thought it was maybe wishful thinking or psychosomatic,” she says. But then she started feeling PMS symptoms herself when her endocrinologist switched her to a new antiandrogen, which prevents androgens like testosterone from affecting the body. “Within a couple of weeks, I started getting much more emotional than I used to. My emotions started bombarding me and I would have these crying fits.” One day, Meghan came home from grocery shopping and, as she was unpacking the bags, her wife asked if she remembered to get diapers. “I said, no, I forgot, and I immediately started bawling my eyes out,” she says. 

Eventually, the mood swings became cyclical, showing up every three to five weeks, and Meghan started feeling some physical symptoms, too. “There have been about two or three times when I've actually experienced physical cramping in my lower belly. And anytime I heard other people say they experienced cramping, I thought that's not physically possible. We don't have the parts,” she says. Now, Meghan feels much more sympathetic to other transgender women who talk about their periods. And the experience seems pretty common — Tess, Aurelia, Crystal, and Angela, a writer and developer, also feel PMS symptoms. 

“I tend to have trouble seeing the bright side. I tend to get pretty grumpy and moody,” Tess says. “I also get some of the gastrointestinal symptoms of menstruation. I get cramping. My girlfriend who is also trans gets more serious cramping.” 

For Crystal, “it's a predictable pattern of weight gain, listlessness, and being done with the world. Once in a blue moon it comes with some minor cramping for a few days, which is honestly a little upsetting because wtf down there is even cramping?” she says.

Aurelia, who has bipolar type two, started getting severe emotional swings after starting HRT (hormone replacement therapy). “Having mood swings on top of a disposition to have mood swings is not great,” she says. It took a while to figure out how to manage her moods, and Aurelia was having severe cramps on top of that. “It's definitely a thing I am very aware of now that I might have a week where I'm just going to have an anxiety attack every day. I can understand what I need to do and take a week off or reschedule my day,” she says. 

Angela’s experience has been more positive. She says, “After a year, I added progesterone to my HRT, and the staccato moodiness of my ‘second puberty’ took on a wave-like quality, ebbing and flowing. After a few months on progesterone, I found myself having PMS-like symptoms, generally around the same time as my wife, a cis woman. Those symptoms include greater emotional extremes (both good and bad), sentimentality, defensiveness, an increased craving for certain kinds of food (salt! chocolate!), bloating due to water retention, greater likelihood of migraines, and less energy. This lasts five or six days. I think the experience actually causes a kind of gender euphoria in me. It was an unexpected development but it feels correct. Like something my body wants to do.”

On period-tracking apps: 

As they started noticing PMS symptoms coming every month, many of the women we spoke to started using period-tracking apps to know when to expect mood swings or cramping. “I'm in the process of trying to map something, because I'm noticing that there are some weeks when I’m just feeling bitchy. I don't want to be, but I can't help it. And it seems to be cyclical,” Tess says. She’s started using a period tracker to track her symptoms, and while she’s had to disable some of the features — she doesn’t care about ovulation or whether or not she might be pregnant — she’s able to see the emotional cycle. 

The same is true for Meghan, whose period often lines up with her wife’s. “We get very snappish and we are very, very, very emotional. I even downloaded a period-tracking app so I could see that every three to five weeks I would have these peaks and valleys when my hormone cycles were kicking in,” she says. 

On commiserating with other women about their periods: 

It’s a common experience for people who menstruate to complain to each other about their periods — the cramping and mood swings that affect their days. Many of the transgender women we spoke to say that as cathartic as complaining about your period can be, for them it’s also validating. 

For Aurelia, complaining about her PMS symptoms to a friend helped her realize that’s what they were. “I was talking with one of my dear friends about feeling bloaty and crampy and I hadn't quite figured out what was happening yet. And they said, ‘Oh, you're having your period,’” she says. That conversation led to her friend giving tips about how to manage her period. 

Meghan’s period confidant is her wife, who will notice her mood swings and make fun of her. “She’ll say ‘I know you're on your period because you’re being moody, you're emotional,’' Meghan says. She says comments like this feel “strangely validating” and “wonderful.”

Tess leans on a close group of friends, both cis and trans, when complaining about her period. “I haven't had to go in-depth with my [friends] about the biomechanics of my period. But they understand that I’m experiencing something that parallels what they are experiencing,” she says. There is this sort of shared solidarity that you get from sharing suffering about what your body does to you, whether you want it to or not.”

Kasandra Brabaw is a freelance writer and editor with focus on health, sex, and LGBTQ+ identity. You can find her work at Health, Bustle, Women's Health, Allure, and other publications. 

Image via Broadly.

If you think you might be experiencing Gender Dysphoria and want to learn more about it and your options for treatment or support, take a look at this article by Choosing Therapy.

Getting your period is a significant time in a young person’s life. Depending on how periods have been discussed at school, and what your kid’s friends are saying about periods, it can be something they’re desperately excited to get, or, it could be something that’s causing them a lot of stress.

Want to give guidance and be there for them? Amazing! Here are some tips we’ve got to help you start the conversation.

Just talk about it!

I was a very awkward youth who didn’t really feel comfortable discussing my period with my parents. We just didn’t talk about it, so I also never brought it up. Periods and sexual health were just glossed over at school unless you were talking about the horrors of STIs, which were, of course, discussed at length and in great detail (ah yes, the classic Catholic School Board curriculum). 

I don’t even really remember my mother explicitly mentioning that she had periods, or cramps, until I was about to start my own. I felt woefully unprepared, and I also felt very nervous about asking more questions. Why hadn’t she brought it up before? Was it bad to talk about? Would I have felt differently if at some point she’d lain on the couch in front of the TV with a heating pack and complained loudly about cramps?

Mentioning periods or cramps outside of the formal context of actually teaching your kids about them will make the experience of learning feel like less of a big deal. Kids are naturally curious about pretty much everything, so if you happen to leave a box of pads out by the bathroom sink sometime, they’ll probably ask you about it. Instead of hiding them away with a sheepish grin, just mention casually “oh they’re for my/my partner’s period,” and see where it goes from there. They might not ask any follow up questions, but those kinds of interactions are great for normalizing the idea of periods!

When you’re getting ready to have a proper chat about it, try setting the stage by telling them about your own experience. Was there a then-traumatizing-now-kinda-funny moment that you can share and both laugh about? Most kids love to hear embarrassing stories about their parents. Of course, you know your kids best, so if they get really bad second-hand embarrassment, maybe bring it up a different way.

Let them know that you’re available to answer any and all questions, that no question is wrong, and mean it. Above all else, let them know that they’re supported and loved, no matter what. 

An important thing to note is that it’s important to have these conversations and interactions with all your kids, even if they’re never going to have a period! The more we normalize conversations about menstruation, the less stigma will carry forward from generation to generation. 

Help them put together their first period pack

New stuff is exciting for everyone! One way to both teach, and get a young person excited about this big part of their life is to help them pick out their first period products. You can talk about tampons and disposables, but we’re a little biased here and think that showing them some cool reusable pad patterns or underwear styles would be a lot of fun too. The cup is also a great option, but the pads and undies have a little less of a learning curve and may be easier products to introduce them to. The important thing is to let them know how many options are out there! You can even talk about how cool it is that there are so many menstrual products available now that may not have been when you were first growing up. 

Do your own research, and let them do the same

Remember how much you loved to learn something new and then tell literally everyone about it? There are a lot of great resources available now for youth wanting to learn about their own bodies, and they might feel more comfortable chatting with you about periods if they feel fully informed about them first.

For parents, we did a “How to Teach Sex-Ed at Home” facebook live with Jessica Wollen that’s available for free, and has some great resources linked in the comments! (Content warning, mention of sexual assault, some gendered language). Jessica also shared this incredible booklist that covers the (BC) curriculum from K-Grade 12.

For kids in grades 5 and 6, Amaze.org is a great resource (There’s also Amaze.org/jr for kids in grade 4 and under).

We’ve also put together the Aisle Youth Period Guide that’s all about periods! It’s full of tips for cycle tracking, what kinds of products are available, and fighting the stigma that comes with menstruation. And, it’s available for free! Click here to sign up for our email list (no spam, and you can leave at any time, promise!) and download it. It’s a great way to give the young folks in your life power over learning about their body, and open the floor for any questions they might have for you. 

If they ask you a question you don’t know the answer to, don’t be afraid to say you don’t know! It gives you the opportunity to look into it together.

You’ve got this!

You know your kids better than anyone (except themselves) and you love them. Be open, honest, and vulnerable with them, and they will respond in kind.

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Booster, oh booster, what are you for?

Did you open your Aisle order and find that your undies came with a little extra piece of fabric? This is the almighty booster! It might look like just a thin piece of fabric, but it’s really high-tech & powerful!

It’s a blend of hydrophobic (wicks moisture away from you) and hydrophilic (absorbent) fibers, creating a bit of tech that keeps you dry and feeling fly. Unlike the undies themselves, they are not leakproof, and are merely designed to be a low-bulk way to add absorbency. All of our products outperform disposables; however, keeping absorbency adjustable helps us help you meet your menstrual needs with the product you prefer.

Our undies absorb 2 tampons’ worth of fluid on their own, but if you need a little extra you can add the optional booster for an extra 2 tampons worth. Just tuck the ends into the slits at either end of the gusset, like this:

Two tampons is already a lot, why would I need a booster?

Using a booster is totally optional, but here are some reasons you might want to use one:

Today is a heavy day. 

Having the full four tampons' worth of absorbency may be something you need on your heaviest days, depending on flow. If you’ve got a super heavy flow and know you’re going to need more than four tampons’ worth of absorbency in a day, picking up some extra boosters and swapping them out as the day goes on is an easy and inexpensive way to top up without having to change undies.

You want that fresh undies feeling.

If you want to wear one pair of undies all day and are experiencing a moderate flow, a booster allows you to get that fresh undies feeling without having to change! Just swap out a used booster for a spare (or even just remove it), and you’re good to go. You can put the old booster in a carry bag, or a toiletries bag.

Even if you’re not having a heavy flow day, it can be nice to change it up when going to the bathroom. (Especially if you spent too long scrolling through insta on your phone & the blood in your undies feels a little colder than you’d like!)

To rest easy.

Our undies are super comfy for sleeping (especially the boxer, highly recommend!) If you want to feel doubly sure that your undies can handle the night shift, equipping them with a booster to get a full four tampons’ worth of absorbency is a good way to do it! 

How do I wash them?

The same way as our other fabric products! Rinse it out when you get the chance, then put it through your regular wash/dry cycle (as with other fabrics, wash with like colours).

Overall, the booster is an inexpensive way to add some extra absorbency & help you feel fresh as you go about your day.

Think back to middle school. If your experience was anything like mine, this is when your friends first started talking about periods. Except they didn’t speak about periods in the grown-up, sophisticated way many of us do now, using medically-correct words like vagina, vulva, and menstruation. Instead they giggled and whispered, using silly euphemisms like, “I’m on my ‘dot-at-the-end-of-the-sentence!’” 

Even worse than the euphemisms were the myths. “I can’t run today,” one friend told me. “You can’t exercise when ‘Aunt Flow’ is in town.” Another told me bears can smell the period blood, so don’t ever go camping when you’re on your period. 

Some of the myths surrounding menstruation are downright silly, and easy to dismiss once we grow a little older and wiser. But others are more complicated — maybe it really is worse to exercise when menstrual cramps are already beating up your insides. 

Below, we explain what the experts and research really says about 8 common period myths. 

Your period will sync with your friends’

Although almost anyone who has a period can recount a time when their menstrual cycle “synced” with a roommate or friend’s, the idea that periods sync up isn’t backed by solid science, according to the Cleveland Clinic. 

The myth of syncing seems to stem from a 1971 study in the journal Nature, which looked at 135 women in a college dormitory and measured when each woman’s period would start. Seeing “a significant increase in synchronization of onset dates,” the study’s author theorized there might be something phermonal going on. 

More recent studies, however, haven’t been able to replicate these results, nor find any biological reason one person’s period would intentionally match up with another’s. In fact, a 2006 study attempting to replicate the 1971 paper’s results (again studying women living in dorms), found that the 186 women in their sample did not sync up. More tellingly, the researchers revisited the 1971 data and found that any syncing was actually the result of chance. 

So when it feels like biology has purposefully made you sync periods with your roommate, best friend, sibling, or partner, either pairing you with a perfect commiseration partner or getting the misery over in one fell swoop, what really happened is purely math. Mathematically speaking, since menstrual cycles aren’t a perfect, regular 28-days for everyone, your period will eventually cross over with that of anyone else in your house who bleeds.  

Periods attract sharks and/or bears 

While this one might seem too ridiculous to even warrant debunking, it actually has basis in history. According to the National Parks Service, two women camping separately were attacked by grizzly bears in Glacier National Park on August 13, 1967. Following the attacks, there was speculation that the bears were attracted to these women by the smell of menstrual blood. 

A similar myth follows sharks. You may have heard from friends growing up, or from The Cosby Show on Nick at Night (like I did) that sharks can smell period blood — so stay far away from the ocean when you’re on your period. 

Yet, there’s no scientific evidence that either animal will sniff menstrual blood and think, “mmm, dinner!” 

Studies that analyzed hundreds of grizzly bear attacks found no correlation with menstruation, and a study that recorded the responses of 26 black bears to both menstruating women and used tampons found that the bears had no attraction to period blood. Further analysis of bear attacks in Yellowstone National Park between 1979 and 2018 found that of 50 attacks, 78% were on men, and of the 11 women who were hurt in bear attacks, most wandered into the bear’s path on a hike (and the attack had nothing to do with menstruation). 

The same is true of sharks. While sharks do have impeccably good noses (able to sniff out blood at one part per million, according to the American Museum of Natural History), there’s no evidence they’re attracted to period blood.

For one thing, menstrual blood isn’t the same as blood from other parts of your body. It’s a mix of blood, vaginal fluid, and the cells and fluid from the endometrial lining. It’s also not the same as seal’s blood, which is much more likely to attract a shark who likes to eat seals (not people). 

According to the Florida Museum, roughly 80% of recorded shark attacks happen to men, mostly because men are more likely to do sports that put them in the path of sharks (surfing, diving, and spear fishing). Yet, as more women and gender nonconforming people have taken up these sports, there has been no uptick in shark attacks. 

You can’t take a bath when you’re on your period 

Like many period myths, this one lies firmly in the “ew factor” associated with period blood. Some people consider taking a bath when you’re on your period to be unhygienic because blood can leak out and “infect” the bathwater. 

But there’s no real safety risk in taking a bath during your period. John’s Hopkins Children’s Hospital says that blood won’t even leak out most of the time, but if it does “it’s not a big deal.” And the Mayo Clinic actually recommends a hot bath when you’re menstruating. The heat of a bath surrounding your abdominal muscles may be just as effective at relieving menstrual cramps as over-the-counter painkillers, according to the clinic. 

So go ahead, turn on the tap, pour in some bubble bath, and sink into the water. 

Your period will stop when you go swimming

This is one myth that’s actually semi-true. As John’s Hopkins said about baths, most of the time, period blood won’t even leak out. 

That’s because the pressure water puts against the vaginal opening where period blood comes out is often enough to counteract the gravity pulling the blood out when you’re above water. Water pressure is your friend when you want to go swimming without a tampon or menstrual cup.

However, what the myth gets very wrong is that swimming doesn’t stop your period. Even while in the water, you’re shedding your endometrial lining and it’s got to go somewhere. If you cough, sneeze, or move around too much the pressure will change and you will leak small amounts of blood into the water. And when you get out, the blood will start flowing again. 

Periods make you moody

We’ve all heard the barb: “Must be that time of the month.” A common phrase that’s often used to dismiss someone's valid feelings of anger or frustration.

First, let’s address the truth: PMS is a very real medical condition that affects many people who have periods. And it can cause dips in mood that sometimes look like depression or irritability, according to Planned Parenthood. So yes, periods can make you “moody.” 

But let’s go back to that line above — one too many of us have heard from our brothers, male friends, partners, and fathers. PMS is not to blame for every strong emotion we have, and certainly not valid anger. Too often, menstrual cycles are used to brush aside womxn’s anger. We have a right to be angry. 

Period sex is unhealthy 

This is another one that stems deep into the “ew factor” of period blood. Cisgender men interviewed about period sex in the 1930s and 40s said they had learned from friends that sex with someone who was menstruating was not only unsanitary, but would also cause their penises to fall off. More recently, a 2009 study which interviewed 108 women and 12 men found that of those who were sexually active, about half of women said they would never have sex while on their periods. Yet most sexually active men (7 out of 9) said they would have sex with someone who was menstruating. 

Over the years, it seems cisgender men have learned that no, your penis will not fall off if it touches period blood. But there does still seem to be some disgust, and possibly shame, around period sex for cisgender women. 

We know, however, that there is nothing unsanitary about period sex — and as long as everyone involved consents, it’s perfectly safe. In fact, starting in the 1960s, sex education literature made it clear that period sex is totally fine. A 1962 guide stated, “having intercourse even during menstruation can be comforting and good,” according to The Modern Period: Menstruation in Twentieth-Century America. 

Later guides even started explaining the benefits of period sex. Far from being unhealthy, period sex, especially sex that ends in orgasm, can be very helpful in relieving the pain of menstrual cramps! 

You can’t (or shouldn’t) exercise when you’re on your period 

If you, like me, had friends use the period excuse to try to get out of gym, you might start thinking they had a point. How did those gym teachers expect us to run a mile or play volleyball or soccer with menstrual cramps tearing up our insides?

Well, turns out the gym teachers were right — periods are no real reason to skip out on exercise. Research has found no difference in menstruating people’s ability to exercise when they’re on their periods vs. not, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

In fact, some research has suggested that people get fewer menstrual cramps when they exercise regularly. So there’s a chance choosing not to skip your run when you’re on your period could actually make you feel better. However, exercising too much can lead to missed periods or can cause your period to stop altogether. Irregular or missing periods are common in athletes who work out hard, but suddenly starting a vigorous exercise routine when you haven’t been working out before could also lead to missed periods. Be sure to talk with your doctor if this happens to you to make sure you’re exercising safely. 

Periods are just for women 

This myth is as outdated as the gender binary it’s based on. As celebrities like J.K. Rowling insist that only women bleed (by which they mean only cisgender women), they ignore the bodies and experiences of transgender men and nonbinary people who have uteruses. All bodies and all genders are valid, and everyone who experiences menstruation deserves recognition and respect for what their body goes through. 

Kasandra Brabaw is a freelance writer and editor with focus on health, sex, and LGBTQ+ identity. You can find her work at Health, Bustle, Women's Health, Allure, and other publications. 

Photo by Margaret Delamater on Scopio

One of the things that gave me pause when I was first looking into reusables for my period was how to care for them. 

I remember having thoughts like... that’s a lot of blood? Isn’t that kind of gross? How do I clean them? Is it safe to reuse something that’s had my blood on it? What if I’m out and want to change a pad? Or empty out my cup?

I’m here to tell you not to worry! There’s a bit of a learning curve when it comes to reusables, but it really doesn’t take long before the whole process becomes part of your day-to-day routine.

First, the general process for our fabric products (pads, liners, and undies) is, when you’re done with them, rinse them out in cool water and then toss them in the washing machine & dryer with your regular laundry. As with any garment, wash them with like colours. 

Some other tips to extend the lifespan of your pads & undies: 

• Avoid bleach or fabric softener - they will decrease the performance and lifespan of your pads, liners, and undies.
• Don’t leave your pads soaking in water - this can lead to bacterial growth and mold.
• Avoid frequent use of Hydrogen Peroxide and Oxygen bleach products - they might be great for removing blood stains but they’re also super harsh on natural fibers. Instead, try our Stain Eraser.

If you’re only going to be doing laundry once a week, it’s alright to rinse out your pads/undies and leave them somewhere with good airflow until laundry day. 

But what about changing them when I’m out of the house?

We carry wet/dry bags that are great for this! You can also use a toiletries bag.

Fold up some spare pads to bring with you, and then when you need to change, you can swap your used one out for a fresh pad. Here’s how you can fold the used pad to keep the blood on the inside:

I thought they were super absorbent? Why would I need to change it if my flow isn’t that heavy?

This is totally a personal preference thing. For example, sometimes I’m not a huge fan of how a used booster in my undies feels after I go to the washroom when I go to pull them up. (It’s a little too cold for me!) So I just swap out the old booster for a fresh one to feel extra comfortable.

Let’s talk cups.

Yes, let's! Our cup conveniently holds one ounce (30 ml) of fluid and can be worn up to 12 hours a day. Depending on your flow, you may only need to empty out your cup twice a day (once in the morning after you wake up, once before you to bed). If you find your cup consistently overfloweth (not just a small leak, but actually more than 30ml of fluid in small periods of time), you may want to get in touch with your doctor about having a heavy flow.

To clean your cup you should use warm water and a mild, unscented and oil-free soap.

There are some tiny holes located below the rim that should be kept clear and clean. (They help with keeping things leak-proof!) Gently stretch each hole under warm running water to remove any debris.

At the end of your cycle, thoroughly wash, rinse and dry the cup completely. Store it in the cotton bag provided, not in a plastic bag or airtight container.

If you’re out during the day and need to empty your cup in a public washroom, it’s ok to empty it out and clean it off with toilet paper/a paper towel. Wash your hands thoroughly before heading to the stall!

Make sure you check the cup for any pieces of paper that may have stuck to it and remove them before reinserting the cup. Some people also like to bring a small bottle of water with them to rinse out the cup, but it’s not necessary. 

Just remember to give your cup a proper clean the next chance you get!

How often do I need to get a new cup?

Since the Aisle cup is a personal hygiene product, we recommend you inspect it regularly for signs of deterioration such as a sticky or powdery film, severe discoloration or odor, etc. If you detect any of these signs, or you experience irritation, replace it with a new one! 

Depending on factors like vaginal pH, how well and often the cup is cleaned, what you clean it with etc., the lifespan of your cup may vary. Our general guideline is to replace it once a year, but ultimately, it's up to you to decide when you feel it's necessary.

Some discoloration over time is totally normal. Some folks like to sterilize their cup by boiling it at the beginning and end of their cycle for 1-2 minutes. 

Not so bad, right?

If it’s still overwhelming, try adding just one type of reusable product at a time to your roster until you feel like you’ve got a handle on how to use and care for them. (For reference, I started with pads, then the cup, and added undies relatively recently). It’s a big switch! It’s alright to take your time and get comfortable with whatever you choose to use. 

Speaking from personal experience as well, caring for my reusables as part of my daily routine helped me develop a new, healthier, relationship with my period. My blood is no longer something I have to hide away and throw into the garbage like it’s something gross and unnatural. It’s a part of the mundane, day-to-day lived experience, and not gross in any way. (Cramps still suck though, don’t get me wrong).

Feeling stressed recently? You're not alone.

We brought in an expert to answer some questions about how stress can impact your menstrual cycle.

Dr. Heather Irobunda is an OB/GYN (Obstetrician and Gynecologist) based out of NYC. An OB/GYN does a variety of work - delivers babies, takes care of vaginal issues, and probably most relevant to this post, period/menstrual issues. She decided to become an OB/GYN after seeing firsthand the lack of education provided around menstruation, especially in underserved communities.

We're thrilled to have gotten the chance to speak with her and get some detailed answers about what happens to our bodies when we get stressed.

A: How can stress affect your cycle overall?

Stress can have a negative effect on your body, including your period. All kinds of stress can affect your period – physical, mental and emotional stress. Sometimes, we may think that the effect of stress on our period is in our head – and actually it is. There are lots of hormones that are made in your brain (the hypothalamus and pituitary regions of the brain to be exact) that affect how your reproductive organs work. When you’re under great amounts of stress (from any source, including emotional and mental), these hormone levels become altered. Due to these alterations in hormone levels, we may see spacing out of your period (skipping periods) and in times of great stress, you may see absence of your period for an extended amount of time.

A: Can stress increase period problems (like PMS or cramps)?

Stress can definitely increase a variety of period problems. Again, due to changes in many hormones – not only hormones made in your brain but in other parts of your body, you can see worsening of PMS symptoms. There are hormones, like cortisol, that your body makes as a result of stress that cause you to have increase bloating and can negatively affect your mood in high levels. Cortisol can also affect hormones, like estrogen and progesterone that may change the way your uterus acts during your menstrual cycle. These changes can cause you to experience more painful cramps!! OUCH!

A: Should you discuss your stress levels with your gynecologist?

Of course you should! We are here to help. It is SO important to tell your gynecologist any and everything that is bothering you, including stress. We can take better care of you when we know more about you. Stress can negatively affect not only your reproductive health, but your overall health. Make sure to let us know if you have experienced any traumatic experiences, have increased anxiety, or are worried about any changes in your body.

A: Can an extremely stressful event (like a pandemic) cause your cycle to change dramatically?

A pandemic, like the one we are living through right now can change your cycle dramatically, especially if you have increased amount of stress. If you have a severe illness, like COVID-19, that can cause your body to have increased physical stress which can alter your menstrual cycle. Some of the other consequences of the pandemic, job loss, economic instability, distance from your social support system, and overall anxiety can all cause changes in your menstrual cycle as well. It would not be surprising to experience some changes in your period during this time. If you notice these changes, you should inform your gynecologist about them, so that we can help you through this time!

A: How can stress impact your fertility?

Stress can have a negative impact on your fertility. I actually wrote an article about dealing with fertility issues during the pandemic. During this time of great stress and uncertainty, the rise in cortisol levels can affect the hormones (estrogen and progesterone) that cause you to ovulate or produce an egg to be fertilized by sperm. If your ovulation is disrupted, it will decrease your ability to get pregnant.

A: What are some good ways to manage stress for reproductive health?

There are so many great ways to manage stress during this time so that your reproductive health is improved. First, talking about your stress with friends or family that you trust can really help. If you want to have a more neutral person to vent to, seeking help from a therapist can be helpful too. Expressing your feelings, especially those of stress and anxiety can really help you to keep from bottling up negative feelings and also getting help to manage your stress. In addition, doing activities that increase your mindfulness can help too. Oftentimes, stress and anxiety are linked to being fearful of the future. If you can bring your mind back to the present moment, many times, you can break those anxiety provoking thought patterns. Great examples of activities that help with mindfulness are meditation, yoga, and crafting (painting, drawing, doing puzzles). Physical activity, like walking, running, and exercise class (there are many on YouTube), dancing to your favorite songs help with decreasing stress. When you are engaging in physical activity, you are releasing endorphins, which are feel-good hormones that make you feel good and reduce feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression!

Got some more questions or want to know more about Dr. Heather Irobunda and her work? Check out her website and her instagram!

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) has a variety of uses, and is often used by transgender and non-binary humans to help them experience gender-affirming physical changes. Hormones do a lot in our bodies, influencing everything from hair growth (or loss), sex drive, and mood, to fat distribution and the menstrual cycle. This post addresses some of the common questions that people have about HRT and the menstrual cycle, including information about both feminizing and masculinizing hormones. If you're curious about how hormone replacement therapy impacts the menstrual cycle, read on!

If you have other questions about HRT, you can speak with a care provider (often a therapist or a general care practitioner can help get you started or point you in the right direction) or talk to others who have experienced hormonal transition (try a Facebook group, a gender doula, or local/national/global organizations that serve trans individuals).

Feminizing vs. Masculinizing Hormones

There are a variety of HRT regimens that people use to achieve gender-affirming effects. Different people want different things from their HRT and so type and dose of hormone treatment will vary from person-to-person. Gender is truly a spectrum, a galaxy, and labels like "masculine" and "feminine" aren't all that helpful. Thick or coarse hair can be feminine, soft skin can be masculine, and so on. However, when hormones are classified as "feminizing" or "masculinizing", that generally means that feminizing hormones are taken by people who were assigned male at birth or have testosterone-dominant hormones in their system and that masculinizing hormones are taken by people who were assigned female at birth or have estrogen-dominant hormones already in their body.

Feminizing hormones often include several drugs or hormones, including anti-androgens or testosterone blockers that decrease the body's production of testosterone as well as estrogen that will support the body in things like fat redistribution, breast growth, softer skin, smaller pores, slower growth of body hair, genital change, etc.

Masculinizing hormones typically just consist of testosterone, which supports the body in facial and body hair growth, increased muscle mass, vocal changes, body fat redistribution, etc. 

Care providers may recommend progesterone in addition to other HRT for both people taking both feminizing and masculinizing hormones. For people looking to develop breasts, progesterone can cause additional breast growth, and for people seeking to stop a menstrual cycle, progesterone can help suppress ovulation and menstruation.

That brings us to the effects of HRT on the menstrual cycle. Some people wonder whether feminizing hormones can cause a menstrual cycle for transfeminine people and non-binary humans who were assigned male at birth. Unfortunately for the folks who hope this to be true, this isn't possible. To understand why not, as well as to understand more about the effects of masculinizing hormones on the menstrual cycle, let's take a look at what a body needs to have a menstrual cycle.

Elements Necessary for a Menstrual Cycle

To have a menstrual cycle, a person needs several elements. For ease of understanding, you need both the “hardware” and “software” necessary for menstruation, both the organs and the hormones that tell those organs to ovulate and menstruate. Those organs are ovaries that produce eggs, a uterus for an endometrial lining to build up on, and an opening for that lining to shed from the body. The hormones necessary for a menstrual cycle are estrogen and progesterone. Estrogen encourages the body to ovulate, and menstruation typically happens 12-18 after ovulation if the egg(s) released from the ovaries were not fertilized with sperm. 

If all of those elements are in play, a menstrual cycle is likely to happen. If not, the body will not ovulate or menstruate. Because both organs and hormones are necessary to menstruate, if someone does not have those organs (because the organs were removed or they were born without them), they won't menstruate.

Effects of Masculinizing HRT on the Menstrual Cycle

Often, the testosterone that people take as a masculinizing hormone affects the body's production of estrogen and stops the menstrual cycle. This isn't always the case, however, so people might take progesterone or use a hormonal birth control to suppress the ovulation and menstruation process. Even if menstruation doesn't happen, some people report menstrual-like symptoms, like cramps, bloating, or emotional changes that seem to happen in a cycle. Others might choose to have the organs responsible for menstruation removed, and then they'd no longer have a menstrual cycle, no matter what hormones were in their body.

Other than stopping the menstrual cycle altogether, other effects of testosterone on this physical process are:

• Change in the length of your cycles (often longer)
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Increased cramps, discomfort, or pain

Finding the hormones that are right for you and your body can be tricky. Talk with your care provider(s) about your goals for HRT and ask them to help you create the effects that are important to you while avoiding (as much as possible) the side effects that you don't want to experience. If you're taking testosterone as a masculinizing hormone and are experiencing longer, painful, or irregular cycles, you can also talk to someone who specializes in menstruation in addition to your primary care providers, like a doula, midwife, herbalist, acupuncturist, or other health practitioner. Here's to feeling good in your body, mind, and gender!

Beth Rich is a queer educator and full-spectrum cycle doula who works at the thresholds and intersections of menstruation, family-building, pregnancy, birth, loss, and other life transitions. They're a non-binary human who's excited to talk about bodies, periods, birth, and sex in language that holds space for all of us. Discover more of their work at thebethrich.com or on Instagram @thebethrich.

Photo by Zackary Drucker for The Gender Spectrum Collection.

Period sex...some people love it, some folks hate it. In general, it has somewhat of a bad rep and carries a lot of stigma. What feels good in your body is always up to you, and I'm not here to try to change your mind. However, here are some suggestions that may be helpful as you tap into your own period pleasure. Whether you're quarantined alone (unless you're reading from the future—hi! Remember that time in the spring of 2020 when many of us stayed home in the face of a global pandemic?) or just want to experiment with period pleasure on your own before sharing it with a pal (or two, or a bunch!), this piece focuses on pleasure you can offer yourself as you bleed.

Get messy...or minimize it.

The thing that some of us get turned off by when it comes to sex + menstruation is, well, all the blood. You've got a few options here. You can lean into the mess, or minimize it. If you're not sure what would feel good, or are just in the mood to switch things up, try both! 

If you're leaning into all the bloody glory, take time to notice what the blood feels like between your fingers. Let it get all over your skin, your sheets, your toys if you're using them. Make the blood a part of your sexual experience. 

If you're looking to sex up your bleed, but want to avoid the messiness, you've also got options. Consider pleasuring yourself with a menstrual cup or disc in, or use a vibrator over your undies. Put a condom on a vibrator or dildo, or stick to external toys that will give you lots of feels without getting very messy. Get busy in the bathtub, where the water will slow your flow (kind of, your bleed doesn't stop in water, but the counter pressure of the water often stops or slows your blood from leaving your body).

Feel into what feels good.

It's true of all kinds of sex, but especially period sex and masturbation that it's all about what feels good to you, just as you are in that moment. Take the pressure off. Go in without a plan. Just follow what feels good to you and see where it leads. You may or may not have an orgasm. You might go with your oldie but goodie positions, moves, or toys, or maybe you'll discover something completely new.

Think kinky.

Kink is broad, and whether hearing the term feels intimidating or lights you up, period pleasure can be an opportunity to experiment and explore to find what kinks you enjoy. Many types of kink have to do with specific sensations and bleeding bodies are often more sensitive. Play to find what sensations feel good to you while you're menstruating. Does it feel good to be tied up, and if so, do you like the ropes to dig into your skin or do you prefer your bondage to feel like a firm, loving hug? To your comfort level, play with things like cold ice, warm wax, paddles, harnesses, clamps, or chains and notice what feels good. And if you don't have any kink gear on hand, get creative! There are lots of ways to DIY prickly, squeezing, spanky, and other kinky sensations. As you're exploring, do keep safety in mind, and if you aren't sure, seek out a sex or kink educator who can support you in safe and kinky period pleasure.

Be open to the "why" behind your period sex.

There are many reasons why we have sex, and many motivations for seeking period pleasure. Getting curious about your "why" may help you to engage in sex and pleasure that ultimately meets those goals and helps you feel how YOU want to feel. Perhaps you're after an orgasm or are just looking for a way to alleviate cramps. Maybe you want to connect to your body or something about the physical experience of menstruation turns you on. All of your "whys" are valid, and being open to them can help you maximize your period pleasure and create an experience that truly satisfies the needs and desires you're trying to meet.

In summary, period pleasure is all about you and your bleeding body. There are no rules, and there isn't actually one "normal." Whether you're into the blood, or are just in it for the pain relief, your bleed offers a unique opportunity to connect to your body and sexuality. Happy bleeding!

Beth Rich is a queer educator and full-spectrum cycle doula who works at the thresholds and intersections of menstruation, family-building, pregnancy, birth, loss, and other life transitions. They're a non-binary human who's excited to talk about bodies, periods, birth, and sex in language that holds space for all of us. Discover more of their work at thebethrich.com or on Instagram @thebethrich.

Photo by Joanna Kosinska on Unsplash

Have you ever wondered how your beloved menstrual cup compares to traditional tampons in terms of environmental impact? Maybe you’re someone who is still on the fence about reusable period products because you’d like to see some meaningful data on sustainability. This article takes you through the troublesome statistics of disposable menstrual products while also offering some ethical inspiration for those who menstruate. 

Consider this sobering fact: in all likelihood, every single disposable tampon or pad that has ever been used has yet to decompose — or even come close to fully decomposing. In fact, no one alive today will ever witness a total decomposition of these products; scientists hypothesize it will take at least 500 years for disposable pads and tampons to break down completely

On average, folks who menstruate will use 11,000 disposable tampons or pads over the course of their lifetime. To put that into a larger global context, it’s estimated that 100 million people use tampons worldwide. In North America alone, 20 billion disposable menstrual products are thrown out each year. 

Despite the alarming nature of these statistics, it’s important to note that these numbers are gradually shifting. Economists predict the reusable menstrual cup market will have a compound annual growth rate of 5.3 per cent over the next decade. In 2018 the menstrual cup industry, which continues to grow each year, was valued at a little over one billion US dollars.

These numbers focus primarily on environmental impact, but what about means of production and overall sustainability? The production of disposable tampons and menstrual products is reliant on the cotton industry. Cotton is considered a “thirsty crop,” which means it requires a large amount of water to thrive. When grown on an industrial scale, cotton also contributes to soil degradation and erosion while also requiring the heavy use of pesticides and fertilizers — all of which have been shown to have detrimental effects on those working in cotton fields as well as local biodiversity. Most tampons are also made from materials such as rayon and chlorine, all of which can have a detrimental effect on the environment as they sit in landfill sites. Many disposable menstrual products, especially pads, contain polyethylene plastic which is a known environmental pollutant. 

Now for the good news! Here at Aisle we take environmental impact and sustainability seriously. Each year, our loyal customers help to divert 2 million pads and tampons from the landfill each month. Our reusable products are designed to replace at least 150 disposable products and with gentle care can go on to replace many more disposable tampons and pads. 

When discussing reusable menstrual products and sustainability it’s also important to consider economic privilege. In the long run, it makes more financial sense to invest in a reusable menstrual cup. However, for some folks the initial cost is insurmountable. Aisle is a proud participant in several Dignity Projects, with the aim of providing accessible menstrual care products for those who need it most. The use of reusable menstrual products ultimately helps lighten the environmental impact of people who menstruate all over the world, regardless of their financial means. 

Ashley Linkletter is a mental health, food, and nutrition writer based in Vancouver, BC.