A set of reusable cloth pads or a menstrual cup typically pays for itself within three to six months compared to ongoing disposable purchases. Over five years the saving is typically NZ$500 to NZ$1,000 or more depending on product choice. A menstrual cup or disc lasts up to 10 years with proper care.

Yes. Menstrual cups have been available since the 1930s and have a strong safety record when used and cleaned correctly. They are made from medical-grade silicone, latex, or thermoplastic rubber. The main requirements are proper insertion technique, emptying every 4 to 12 hours depending on flow, and sterilising between cycles by boiling in water for 5 minutes.

Rinse pads in cold water immediately after use (hot water can set stains). Machine wash on a warm cycle with your regular laundry, or hand wash with mild soap. Air dry rather than tumble dry to preserve the waterproof layer. Store clean, dry pads in a small pouch or container. Most pads last two to five years of regular use.

Conventional disposable pads and tampons can contain bleaching agents (dioxin residues from chlorine bleaching), synthetic fragrance, superabsorbent polymers, and pesticide residues if made from non-organic cotton. Organic cotton alternatives avoid pesticide residues and bleaching chemicals. Reusable cloth pads and menstrual cups avoid all of these entirely.

Over a lifetime, a person who menstruates uses approximately 11,000 to 17,000 disposable pads or tampons. Most cannot be recycled and end up in landfill or, when flushed, in waterways. Switching to reusable alternatives such as menstrual cups, cloth pads, or period underwear eliminates essentially all of this waste.

Many people use menstrual cups successfully with an IUD, but it requires care with removal to avoid displacing the IUD strings. The consensus is that menstrual cups can be used with an IUD if you: ensure the cup is fully sealed before removal, are gentle during removal, and have your IUD strings checked regularly by your doctor. Consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns.