The reality of the tampon shortage is sinking in at checkout counters and in bathrooms across the country.
Supply chain issues and inflation have teamed up to make an already complicated time of the month increasingly stressful.
Youve probably noticed the roughly 10% price jump on your favorite tampons.
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Maybe your go-to brand is sold out all together and youve had to resort to a different variety.
Or, perhaps youve driven from store to store in search of what you need.
Many products are unavailable online, too.
The term refers to the markup on products marketed to women compared to similar items marketed to men.
So, what can you do to see yourself through the tampon shortage?
Weve done the research on alternatives to tampons and came up with a robust list.
You might actually opt to stay with the new product and continue to save money.
Our team has compiled alist of creative waysyou can fatten your bank account this week.
This is a long list, so dont get overwhelmed.
Well keep it updated as offers changes or expire.
The Menstrual Cup
A menstrual cup is a reusable bell-shaped cup, typically made of rubber or silicone.
When properly maintained, most cups last for 10 years.
We did the math, so you dont have to.
Say a period lasts (on average) four days.
Thats 12 to 24 tampons.
Did you know?
If you change tampons more often or have a longer period, your savings kick in earlier.
The Menstrual Disc
The menstrual disc is a saucer-shaped disc usually made from silicone.
While smaller than its cup cousin, the disc is no less mighty.
And you guessed it, its also reusable.
Since these little saucers are reusable, they are an excellent cost effective alternative to tampons.
Still, a cost saving alternative to tampons.
Period Underwear
Period underwear looks like normal bikinis, boxers or boy shorts but feature a built-in pad.
After some rinsing, they can be laundered with the rest of your clothes.
Cloth Pads
Cloth pads are reusable menstrual pads made from natural fibers such as cotton, bamboo and hemp.
Disposable Pads
Ah, the old standby where many of us started our period journeys.
Disposable pads are typically made from synthetic or semi-synthetic fibers.
And with sustainable brands likeCoraandJoniyou can still feel good about disposing of your pads.
Which Tampon Alternative Is Right For You?
Put a Cup In Itoffers product comparisons and thisuseful quizto help you identify the right cup for you.
But especially right now, the most popular alternatives are sure to save you money.
And some function like pads, but are washable and consequently, reusable.
When used and maintained as directed, they are a safe and healthy choice.
Although some reusable alternatives are made with plastic, they can last up to 10 years.
Contributor Veronica Matthews writes on lifestyle topics from North Carolina.
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