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Showing posts with the label Period Care

The Downsides of Period Underwear—and How Saalt Wear Solves Them

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Period underwear is getting tons of buzz—for good reason! These leakproof period pants are comfy, reusable, and a great alternative (or backup) to pads, tampons, and cups. But while they sound like a dream, period panties aren’t perfect for everyone. Some common drawbacks include the upfront cost (a single pair can cost $20–$50), and the laundry routine—you’ll need to rinse, wash gently, and air dry them. If you have a heavy flow, you might also need to change pairs during the day, which isn’t always convenient. And like regular underwear, fit really matters—too tight or too loose can lead to discomfort or leaks. Lastly, some brands use synthetic fabrics or chemicals that may not be ideal for sensitive skin or the planet. That’s where Saalt Wear comes in. Made with sustainable, toxin-free materials (like TENCEL™ and recycled fibers), Saalt offers comfy, stylish, and size-inclusive period underwear in absorbencies for every flow. Plus, as a certified B Corp, Saalt gives back 1% of rev...

Choosing the Right Reusable Period Product: A Complete Guide

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In recent years, sustainable menstrual products have revolutionized period care. From menstrual cups to period underwear, these eco-friendly alternatives offer comfort, savings, and environmental benefits. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of reusable period products to find your perfect match. Understanding Your Options Menstrual Cups: The Versatile Classic Menstrual cups have gained tremendous popularity for good reason. These small, flexible silicone or TPE cups collect rather than absorb menstrual flow, offering up to 12 hours of protection. Key benefits: Cost-effective (one cup lasts 3-10 years) Leak protection for all activities, including swimming Reduced risk of irritation compared to tampons Zero waste during use Available in various sizes, firmness levels, and shapes Many first-time users are surprised by how comfortable a properly fitted menstrual cup feels. While there's a learning curve, most people master insertion and removal within 2-3 cycle...

Reusable Menstrual Products Now FSA/HSA Eligible: What to Know

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Interest in reusable menstrual products—like menstrual cups , menstrual discs , and period underwear (also called leakproof underwear)—has grown significantly in recent years. These eco-friendly options offer long-term savings and reduce waste, but their upfront cost can be a barrier. Thanks to a 2020 law change, there’s now a helpful solution: these products are eligible for purchase with FSA (Flexible Spending Account) and HSA (Health Savings Account) funds. Many people are still unaware of this benefit. You can use your FSA/HSA card directly on many retail websites by searching terms like “FSA eligible menstrual cup” or “HSA period pants.” Retailers often label qualifying items to make them easy to find. Menstrual cups and leakproof underwear can cost $30–$50 each. While they save money over time, using pre-tax FSA/HSA funds can reduce the upfront burden and help avoid sales tax—sometimes called the "tampon tax." This is different from the “pink tax,” which refers to inf...

Which Period Product is Right for You? A Complete Comparison Guide

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Navigating the world of modern period products can feel overwhelming with so many innovative options available. From leakproof panties to menstrual cups and discs, each product offers unique benefits that might make it the perfect match for your lifestyle and body. Let's explore the key differences to help you find your ideal period solution. Leakproof Panties & Period Underwear Period underwear and leakproof panties have revolutionized menstrual care with their simplicity and comfort. These absorbent undergarments look and feel like regular underwear but contain special layers that trap moisture and prevent leaks. Best for: Light to moderate flow days, backup protection, overnight wear, or those who prefer external products. Benefits: Wear up to 12 hours depending on flow No insertion required Environmentally friendly alternative to disposables Available in various styles and absorbency levels Perfect for sensitive bodies or those who can't use internal products Menstrual...

How to Prevent Spills when Removing your Menstrual Disc (or Mess-Free Menstrual Disc Removal Tips):

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Using a menstrual disc is a game-changer—hello, comfort, longer wear, and leak protection! But let’s be real: removing it can get messy. Here are some quick tips to keep it clean and stress-free. Wash Your Hands – Keep things hygienic before reaching in. Relax – Tense muscles make removal harder, so take a deep breath. Find Your Position – Sit on the toilet, squat in the shower, or prop a leg up. Hook and Pull – Use a finger to hook the notch or pinch the rim for control. Go Slow & Keep Level – Lean back slightly and pull steadily to avoid spills. Use Period Underwear for Back-up – Residual blood can lead to spotting, so wear a pair of leakproof panties for an extra layer of protection. Optimal Timing for Removal The best time to remove your menstrual disc is when it's not completely full, typically at 70-80% capacity. This gives you more control and reduces spillage risk. Early morning or before bed are ideal times when flow is typically lighter. Anatomical Considerations...

What Period Product is Best for a Tilted Cervix?

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A tilted cervix, also known as a retroverted cervix, occurs when the cervix tilts backward instead of pointing forward toward the vaginal opening. This is a common condition affecting about 25% of those with a uterus, and for most people, it causes no issues. However, it can be an important factor when choosing the best reusable period care products. Most people with a tilted cervix can safely use products like menstrual cups, menstrual discs , or leakproof underwear . Menstrual discs sit under the cervix in the vaginal fornix, which works well for those with a minor tilt. If the cervix is more tilted, adjusting the disc or trying a different size may help with fit. For those with a more pronounced tilt, a menstrual cup might be a better choice, as it sits lower in the vaginal canal and doesn’t require full coverage of the cervix. Cups also come in different sizes and firmness, like the Saalt Soft Cup , to ensure a good fit. Leakproof period underwear is another great option for extr...

Top Period Products for Managing Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

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Managing pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) alongside your period can feel like a lot, but there are products that can make things easier. If you're dealing with PFD, comfort and support are key, and soft menstrual cups, menstrual discs, and period underwear are worth considering. Soft Menstrual Cups like the Saalt Soft Cup are perfect for those with sensitive pelvic floors. Made of flexible silicone, these cups are gentle, leak-proof, and can be worn for up to 12 hours without adding pressure to your pelvic muscles. They sit lower in the vaginal canal, making them more comfortable for those with PFD. Menstrual Discs , such as the Saalt Disc, are another great option. These flat, circular discs sit at the base of your cervix and provide up to 12 hours of protection without creating pressure or suction. They’re comfortable, leak-proof, and can be worn during activities like swimming, yoga, or period sex . For a simpler solution, period underwear like Saalt Wear provides extra comfort...

Understanding Endometriosis

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Endometriosis is a chronic, often painful condition where tissue similar to the endometrium—the lining of the uterus—grows outside of the uterus. Normally, during a menstrual cycle, the endometrium thickens, and then sheds if there’s no pregnancy, causing menstruation. However, in endometriosis, this tissue outside the uterus cannot be shed, leading to inflammation, scar tissue, and severe pain. Endometriosis commonly affects the pelvic and abdominal areas, especially around the reproductive organs. Symptoms include painful periods with excessive cramping, pain during intercourse, painful urination or bowel movements, heavy bleeding, nausea, bloating, and fatigue. People with endometriosis may find it helpful to use a menstrual cup or menstrual disc , which can handle heavy flow and save on disposable products, paired with period underwear for added protection. The exact cause of endometriosis is unknown, but several theories exist. These include the possibility of tissue being sprea...

The Best Period Products for Athletes

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Athletes need period care that’s comfortable, reliable, and can keep up with their active lifestyle. Whether you’re running, swimming, or hitting the gym, reusable period products like menstrual cups, menstrual discs , and period underwear provide the perfect solution. Here's why: Menstrual Cups Best for: High-impact sports like running and weight lifting. Period cups offer up to 12 hours of leak-proof protection. Made of flexible silicone, they form a seal inside the body, collecting menstrual fluid without absorbing it. They’re comfortable, subtle, and stay in place even during intense movements, making them perfect for athletes. Menstrual Discs Best for: Activities like yoga and swimming. Reusable menstrual discs sit lower in the vaginal canal, offering a sublte and slim fit. They provide up to 12 hours of leak-proof protection and are great for high-mobility sports. The design ensures comfort without pressure on the pelvic area, making them ideal for flexibility. Period Unde...

What Causes Breast Swelling During My Period?

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If you've noticed your breasts getting a little bigger, fuller, or more sensitive around your period, you're not alone—it's totally normal! The cause? Hormones. Estrogen and progesterone, which fluctuate throughout your cycle, are responsible for the changes in your breasts. During the first half of your cycle, estrogen peaks, causing your breast tissue to retain more fluid, making them feel fuller. After ovulation, progesterone takes over, which can lead to tenderness and swelling as your body prepares for a potential pregnancy. If pregnancy doesn't occur, hormone levels drop, and your breasts return to their usual size. These hormonal shifts can make your breasts feel heavier or look slightly larger—some people even notice a cup size change. Luckily, this is all temporary. As your period winds down, your hormone levels will balance out and things will go back to normal. To manage breast tenderness, make sure you wear a well-fitted bra or bralette for extra support,...

Sustainable Holiday Gift Guide: Top Period Cups, Menstrual Discs, and Leakproof Underwear

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Tis’ the season… to give the gift of sustainable period care for the holidays! The best gifts can sometimes be the products we (or your loved ones) need the most. To make your holiday shopping a little easier this year, here are holiday gift ideas for the friends and family members in your life! For the teen in your life: Period care designed with teens in mind can be a great gift to get your teen more comfortable with their period product options. For the early 20's hip girl you know: A matching set? Yes please! A matching bralette and period underwear set may be what your friend needs to feel confident and cute during their period. For the granola friend who is into sustainability: We all have that friend who strives to create a better planet for us all, and we love them for that. Period cups and period discs last up to 10 years, saving thousands of tampons from landfill.  For the postpartum mom in your life: There are a lot of changes that happen during the first few months ...

Different Ways to Sanitize Your Menstrual Cup or Disc

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Welcome to the sustainable, comfortable period club! If you're new to using a menstrual cup or menstrual disc , it's important to sanitize your product before and after each cycle. Here’s how to do it easily: Understanding Sanitizing vs. Sterilizing Sanitizing : Reduces germs to safe levels, ideal for home cleaning. Sterilizing : Eliminates all microbial life, usually done in medical settings, often with an autoclave.  Sanitization Methods Boiling Water (Classic Method) Supplies : Pot, water, tongs or whisk.  Steps : Fill a pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Carefully position your secured cup or disc (within tongs or whisk) and boil for 4–5 minutes.  Remove and let cool before storing or wearing.  Compact Sanitizer (Travel-Friendly Method) Supplies :Compact Sanitizer, microwave. Steps : Open the sanitizer, fill with water, and add your cup/disc. Microwave for about 3 minutes until boiling. Let sit for another 3 minutes, then cool and store. Saalt Steam...