In the evolving landscape of feminine care, menstrual products, from period underwear to menstrual discs and cups, have received significant attention. A recent study dived deep into their capacity to measure menstrual blood loss, bringing forward interesting insights. But where do cloth menstrual pads, a traditional yet eco-friendly option, fit into this?
The Study Findings:
1. Underestimation of Menstrual Blood Loss: The study indicated that relying on modern menstrual products to determine if an individual has Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (HMB) or needs treatment for acute bleeding might not give a complete picture. These products may underrepresent the actual blood loss.
2. Discrepancy with Product Labelling: A notable difference was found between the study’s outcomes and the capacity labeling of these menstrual products. This could be because manufacturers often test these products using non-blood liquids, like saline, which don’t simulate the nature of menstrual blood.
3. Nature of Menstrual Blood: Menstrual blood, unlike standard blood or packed Red Blood Cells (RBCs), is thicker. It's a mix of blood, vaginal secretions, and endometrial cells. For individuals with HMB, their menstrual blood may also contain clots, which can sometimes cause leaks in certain menstrual hygiene products.
The Role of Cloth Menstrual Pads:
Cloth menstrual pads have been a long-standing option for many. Their absorbency is different from synthetic products, and they offer a tactile feedback that might help users gauge their blood flow better. Since cloth pads can be rinsed and observed directly, they might offer a more accurate visual assessment of blood loss, allowing menstruators to track changes over time.
Moreover, cloth pads, being washable and reusable, encourage users to be more in tune with their cycles, potentially aiding in better self-assessment of menstrual health.
Why This Matters:
Accurate assessment of menstrual blood loss is not just about preventing leaks or ensuring comfort—it has broader health ramifications. If healthcare professionals base diagnoses like HMB solely on the volume captured by modern products, critical signs may be overlooked.
In Conclusion:
While modern menstrual products bring convenience, the study emphasizes the importance of understanding their limitations in assessing menstrual blood loss. Cloth menstrual pads, due to their unique nature, may bridge this gap to some extent. Both menstruators and healthcare professionals need to consider the type of menstrual hygiene product used when evaluating health conditions to ensure the most accurate diagnosis and treatment.