This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Australia, which closed in 2021.

It Might Be Time To Break Up With Your Tampon

First of all, they are expensive.
Feminine hygiene
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Feminine hygiene

Menstrual blood is really cool. Did you know, for example, that stem cells from menstrual blood are more powerful than those found in bone marrow?

Tampons, on the other hand, leave much to be desired. According to ASAP Science, 81 percent of women wear tampons during their menstrual cycle. But the evidence to ditch the tampon is mounting.

Not only are tampons expensive (thanks, luxury tax), they’re also environmentally unfriendly: Plastic applicators are not biodegradable and contribute nearly 300 pounds of waste in one woman’s lifetime, according to the video.

Tampons can also contribute to bacterial infections, including the very rare, but potentially fatal toxic shock syndrome, which is caused by Staphylococcus aureus or streptococcus bacteria.

So what’s a person to do? The best alternative to a tampon, in this case, just might be the menstrual cup. It’s cheaper, worn longer than a tampon and reusable. Another option? “Period panties.” Or there’s always good, old-fashioned pads.

Thinking of jumping ship? Check out the video for more.

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