Adapted, natural sponges work as feminine absorbents. Is the option safe?
Menstrual marine sponges are a new alternative for those who are in those days... But there is a lot of controversy involved
Disposable pads are practical for women in the menstrual cycle, but very harmful to the environment (see more in "Disposable pads: history, environmental impacts and alternatives"). There are a number of more sustainable alternatives, such as using cloth absorbents, biodegradables and silicone collection cups... But did you know that it is possible to transform marine sponges into absorbents?
The use of marine sponges during the menstrual period is not a very popular method in Brazil, but it is efficient, according to a BBC report, since the sponge absorbs liquids very well. There is, however, an important controversial issue in this regard.
Is it safe or not?
According to gynecologist Raquel Dardik, from NYU Langone Medical Center, in New York, USA, "they are absolutely safe". But there are also professionals who reject the use of this type of object, precisely because they do not know the cleaning methods used by manufacturers - thus, sponges could, for example, contain potentially harmful bacteria. Canadian gynecologist Jen Guntar advises against using sponges as tampons. "They didn't pass even the most basic security tests," he says in a post referenced in studies on his personal blog.
preparation and use
Manufacturers say the process consists of collecting, adapting, drying and disinfecting the sponges before selling them; they are not harmful to the environment, can be reused and are biodegradable. To use the item, just soak it in hot water and squeeze it as much as possible, introducing it into the vagina. When coming into contact with water, the sponge expands and adapts to the shape of each woman's intimate region.
Once placed, the sponge must be removed after three or four hours and washed, and can be reused for a period of six to 12 months, depending on the manufacturer's specifications - when the period is over, the user needs to buy another one. In the menstrual cycle, after the aforementioned three or four hours, the sponge should be kept immersed in a natural cleaning solution (sold by the manufacturers) overnight; before being stored, it needs to be very dry. It should never be washed with washing powder or detergent - water is sufficient. It is also important to allow it to dry normally.
There are different sizes of sponges and it is possible to use more than one during the same period according to the amount of flow. Inserting the item is simple, but removing it is more complicated.
Recommendations
The option looks interesting and it really is an environmentally friendly alternative. But it is always important to take into account the precautionary principle. If you decide to use it, search the manufacturer's website and verify that the product has been tested and found not to cause potential damage. Do not use an ordinary natural sponge as an absorbent - this can cause accidents. A good alternative while natural sponges are still shrouded in controversy is to test menstrual collectors made of medical silicone (they are available at eCycle store)!
