Disabilities and periods have a lot of misinformation and misunderstandings about them out there. Were you aware that one of the most popular searches on Google regarding handicapped women and menstruation is "do disabled people get their period"?
The answer to that is yes, they do get their period. When we hear the word menstruation, we mostly think about hygiene or product safety. We think about cramps and how we can’t wait for it to be over. We have tons of talks about these topics.
The thing is, menstrual health talks typically leave disabled individuals out. Periods may be a complex matter for disabled persons — particularly when these chronic diseases are menstruation-associated. The likelihood of people with disabilities living in poverty is double that of their non-disabled counterparts. The price of tampons and pads amounts to close to 60 dollars per year, which might in the first place, make purchasing these products unaffordable.
People with disabilities can have periods and do so, but the optimal way to manage their periods differs. Pads, tampons, menstruation cups, and period underwear pertain to the four major product options.
Let’s start with pads. Pads are available in numerous styles, shapes, and sizes, so the options can be pretty overwhelming. The simplicity of the wings makes pads the most apparent choice for handicapped women and the least invasive product during your period. Reusable pads are becoming the latest approach to manage your period in recent times. This is a fantastic idea and it is ecologically and economically friendlier than most throwaway pads, however, it is not unproblematic. Some handicapped women may not have the strength or ability to wash the pads before or after they are used.
Next, we’re talking about menstrual cups. Menstrual cups are a reusable product that will save you money and be practical, dependable, and friendlier on the body. Cups may be useful for those with good dexterity in their hands, arms, wrists, and fingers. However, a closer look reveals that it is a period product that not all women can use. If you have a disability, you most likely might find it difficult to use a menstrual cup.
Moving on to period underwear, or also known as period panties. Period underwear works similarly to a pad but has more fabric incorporated into the crotch. A single underwear pair may absorb a blood value of 1-2 tampons. This apparel might be a good alternative for those with light periods or who wish to have a further protective layer. But it may be costly. A single pair of underwear may price between 20-35$ on average and it must be replaced as frequently as a pad or tampon. For some disabled ladies, they can be difficult to clean. You must rinse them in cold water until the water runs clear. Then wash them as usual in the washing machine. It might be challenging for some disabled people to rinse them.
Lastly, we have tampons. Although they are very convenient, tampons aren’t always easy for disabled women to use, especially if there are physical limitations. Also, it may also be a highly invasive and uncomfortable exercise to take help for if you cannot put tampons in and take them out alone. Tampons are therefore not the easiest solution for disabled women, even if there are easy applicators.
Reusable menstruation products exist in many forms and sizes, from cloth to silicone. For anyone, reusables are neither feasible nor practicable. Hygiene items that are disposable are vital supplies and have helped make periods much more tolerable. Any product that demands even some dexterity in fingers, hands, and arms and that requires a minimum muscle strength is going to be difficult to use for disabled women.
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