Menstrual cups and reusable sanitary pads

Menstrual cups are made of 100% soft medical silicone. The cup is folded according to instructions and pushed up into the vagina, where it sits like a tampon. The menstrual cup collects the blood until it is taken out and then emptied and put back again. When the cup unfolds inside the vagina, it forms a vacuum which keeps it completely tight. If it is placed correctly, it does not feel and is not visible from the outside. Depending on how abundant the menstruation is, the cup can stay inside for up to 12 hours. This means that girls can go to school without having to worry about managing their period during the school day or worrying about leakage.

Reusable sanitary pads is another option. These are handed out to the girls along with panties and soap for washing the pads. To start with, just sanitary pads and soap was included and distributed. But, through questions from some girls on the handling of pads, our partner Annie found out that some girls also lacked panties. Then these were added to the package. Treated carefully, the pads can last for 2-3 years. For many, disposable sanitary napkins are not an option for financial reasons. Disposable sanitary pads also contribute to waste problems in poor areas. In schools with toilets, sanitary pads are often thrown in the drains as taboos around menstruation prevent girls from throwing used pads in the trash.

We think that everyone has the right to choose which menstrual protection suits them best. That is why we also support our partners' work with sanitary pads and menstrual cups.

We can buy our menstrual cups at a subsidized price and add our own, special made, manuals.

Ebby Weyime, menstruation activist in Kenya tells about how the menstrual cup is used