The Effect of Menstrual Cups on Sustainable Hygiene Management: Revolutionizing Menstrual Health

Abstract

This review article explores the use of menstruation cups to manage period hygiene and promoting environmental sustainability. The primary goal of this paper is to review different types of commonly used menstrual products such as tampons, sanitary pads, reusable cloth pads, menstrual cups, and period underwear, including their affordability, environmental impact, and health effects. Menstrual cups are found out to be a better alternative for managing menstruation because it is reusable, affordable, and does not cause harm to environment and human health. The paper also looks at how menstruation cups empower women and help to eradicate period taboos. Menstrual cups not only offer a sustainable menstrual hygiene solution but also support larger social and cultural changes by giving people the knowledge and ability to make conversant decisions. In this review article, few case studies are discussed which highlights the transforming potential of menstruation cups. The article serves as motivating examples for governments, non-government organizations and businesses to encourage the usage of menstrual cups in female and thereby help in developing a more inclusive and sustainable future. This study also aims towards eliminating period poverty and help in achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs) i.e., SDG 3 (Well-being and Good Health), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Hygiene), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).