Reusable period products are sustainable alternatives to disposable single-use items. They can  be washed and reused many times, helping reduce waste and conserve natural resources.

Choosing period products involves  many considerations, including convenience, comfort, cost and environmental impact.

When choosing between single-use and reusable, consider:

• The average woman will use between 5,000 and 15,000 pads and tampons in their lifetime
• Disposable period products can take between 300-500 years to decompose
• Around 90% of every disposable pad is made from plastic
• Many single-use period products contain harmful chemicals
• Switching to reusable period products can save you money in the long run
• Using reusable products helps reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfill

There are many types of reusable period products available and you may need to try a few before you find products you like.

The Jean Hailes website provides information on period products, including how to use them, how often they need to be changed and how to dispose of them.

Read more information about menstruation and the FAQs by the Commissioner for Children and Young People (CCYP).