Questions about alternative menstrual products!

[somethinguseful.livejournal.com]

I have been thinking of making the gradual move to using a more environmentally friendly menstrual product but I have some hesitation with a few.

I was thinking about using the pads that you can use over, wash, etc. but I live in the dorms most of the year with a roommate and since I have a very, very, VERY busy schedule (20+ hours of work + 20 credit hours + club meetings, scholars, etc.) I will never get around to cleaning them out until the end of the week.

I also gave the Diva a thought. Now don't get all Diva-praising on me, I know it is a great product, but not for everyone. I have reservations about ANYTHING inside me. I can't even use tampons. I don't particularly care for sex (but that could be because I can't orgasm from anything either heh). None of it feels very natural. I walk funny with tampons in me and I constantly have to check and pull them out and put a new one in out of paranoia. And as much as I love my body, I have a huge fear of germs, so I don't care much for touching myself even in a bathroom setting.

Any suggestions? Anything that should make me reconsider those two options? Or should I stick with conventional disposable pads, etc?

Comments

[lost-almost.livejournal.com]

I totally understand your reservations towards any insertable stuff - I am the same way. I got one reusable pad from Whole Foods (about $9) and some of the Natracare disposable pads and used them in the second half of my period. Both are a significant improvement in comfort over regular disposables. I liked the reusable one better, the Natracare pads get a little bunched up and caused some staining. I suggest you take it a little slow and not stretch things beyond your comfort threshold in your very first attempt.