healthy side-effects of using cloth pads

[quirkothetrade]

Can anyone tell me how using cloth affected them in this way? Especially if you have PCOS (me, here) or endrometriosis, or the like.

I'm switching regardless (still in-progress of making a few to try), but I want to know if it has happened for anyone or anyone they know, too.

Comments

[burntbuffalo]

The healthy side effect I've had from switching to cloth (usually cloth back up for my cup) is that I no longer suffer diaper rash. I used to get the worst irritation and I thought I was getting UTI's every month. Switched to cloth and haven't had a problem since.

I don't have PCOS or endometriosis so I don't know about that. I do have a history of sever cramps and I feel more comfortable in cloth than disposable. Not quite sure why, but it's at least a comfort thing if nothing else. Mentally, I'm not grossed out by cloth pads like I am with disposable, and I have a much healthy attitude towards my period and my entire cycle than I did before. But, I started reading Taking Charge of your Fertility and practicing FAM right about the same time I switched from disposable tampons and pads to cloth and cup, so that probably helped, too.

[quirkothetrade]

I'm glad to hear it wasn't a UTI you were getting every month, and to hear your experience! I've never heard of that book; I think I'll be putting it on my reading list. Thank you!

[matersum]

I personally didn't notice a great difference except I was much more comfortable and I didn't seem to have as many cramps.

[quirkothetrade]

Comfort is a big, big plus with me. I'm glad your cramps aren't so many any more

[fireaphid]

I switched to cloth due to an allergy to the fragrances in "unscented" pads, and, indeed, my health has improved! Actually, it might not have been an allergy. I found out soon after I switched that I have psoriasis, and I don't doubt that the fragrances would have been a trigger for it, and it would explain why the rash would persist so long after exposure. In any case, cloth totally solved the problem.

That being said, PCOS is a hormonal thing, so I'm not sure how cloth pads would help beside making menstruation more comfortable, unless you think pad/tampon companies are actively adding dangerous things (hormones?) to their products.

[quirkothetrade]

Cool!

I think I was reading an article about the chemicals in plastics affecting hormone levels, but I can't remember the article name. I'm not switching for that anyway, just wondering if anyone noticed a difference when they switched if they had a condition similar to mine or not.

I mainly expect to be more comfortable. Anything else would be icing on the cake, so to speak.

[quirkothetrade]

Wow. That IS something to appreciate! Thanks for the feedback!

[quirkothetrade]

Congratulations on your new baby! <3

I was wondering how a transition period went for some ladies, and now I'm more curious. Hmmm... did they not want you to bring your own postpartum pads to the birthing for afterward?

[quirkothetrade]

My sympathies on the unexpected trip. I do see about the upkeep being out of your league all that time, as well. You already had your hands full!

I like acupuncture- I like most alternative therapies. A friend introduced me to it, and it's really helped.