The History of Menstrual Products: From Ancient Times to Modern Period Care

Tahli
Sep 12, 2024
4 min read

Updated: Oct 6, 2024

Menstrual products have come a long way from the improvised solutions used thousands of years ago to the diverse, convenient options we have today. From ancient practices to modern-day innovations, the evolution of menstrual care offers insights into how society has addressed menstruation, hygiene, and women’s health over the centuries. Here’s a look at how menstrual products have developed—and where they’re heading.

Ancient Period Care Solutions

Historically, periods were often misunderstood and shrouded in taboos, with people developing creative ways to manage their flow. In ancient Egypt, women reportedly used softened papyrus, while Greek women relied on lint wrapped around small sticks. Other cultures, such as the Romans, used wool, and indigenous communities turned to natural materials like moss or animal pelts. These methods weren’t perfect, but they were functional and reflected the resources available at the time.

The First Commercial Period Products

It wasn’t until the late 19th century that commercially available menstrual products began to appear. In 1888, nurses developed the first disposable sanitary pads using wood pulp bandages—more absorbent than cloth pads and easier to discard. This innovation marked the start of a new era in menstrual care.

By the early 20th century, brands started producing commercial pads, with one of the first, Lister’s Towels, hitting shelves. Though the products were available, the stigma surrounding periods meant they weren’t widely discussed, and many women were hesitant to purchase them openly.

The Introduction of Tampons

In the 1930s, the invention of the modern tampon was a significant milestone in menstrual care. While early tampon-like products had existed for centuries, the tampon as we know it today—with an applicator—was patented by Dr. Earle Haas in 1933. Marketed as "Tampax," it offered an alternative to pads, providing more discretion and comfort, especially for active women.

Despite some initial pushback from conservative groups, tampons quickly gained popularity and became a staple in menstrual care. By the mid-20th century, they were widely accepted, offering women a choice between tampons and pads for managing their periods.

Pads Get a Modern Upgrade

The 1960s brought a major innovation to menstrual products with the introduction of adhesive pads. Prior to this, women used belts to secure pads in place, but adhesive strips eliminated the need for extra attachments, making pads much easier to use.

By the 1970s, super-absorbent materials allowed for thinner, more effective pads, improving comfort without sacrificing performance. With these advancements, menstrual products became more user-friendly, and the conversation around periods began to shift toward more open, normalised discussions.

The Resurgence of Menstrual Cups

Although menstrual cups were first introduced around the same time as tampons in the 1930s, they didn’t gain widespread traction until much later. Early versions of the menstrual cup were made from rubber and weren’t as convenient as modern alternatives. However, as awareness of environmental sustainability grew, so did interest in reusable menstrual products.

Today’s menstrual cups, typically made from medical-grade silicone, are long-lasting, eco-friendly, and gaining popularity among women looking to reduce their environmental impact. They can be worn for up to 12 hours and offer a cost-effective alternative to disposable products.

The Eco-Friendly Movement in Menstrual Care

In recent years, the focus on sustainability has driven a surge in eco-friendly menstrual products. Several brands have introduced period underwear, which contains built-in absorbent layers, while reusable cloth pads have also made a comeback. These options offer a waste-free solution for those looking to reduce their environmental footprint.

Additionally, organic tampons and biodegradable pads have emerged as alternatives to conventional products, which often contain plastic and chemicals. These products provide a more environmentally conscious option for those who prefer disposables but want to minimise their impact on the planet.

The Future of Menstrual Products

As society continues to break down the stigma around menstruation, period products are becoming more diverse and inclusive. There’s also been an increased focus on gender-neutral marketing, recognising that not all people who menstruate identify as women. Today’s market offers a range of options to suit every lifestyle—whether you prefer tampons, pads, cups, or period underwear—and more innovation is on the horizon as we embrace sustainability and inclusivity in period care.

The history of menstrual products is more than just a timeline of invention—it’s a reflection of changing attitudes toward menstruation, women’s health, and environmental awareness. As we continue to move forward, the choices we have for managing periods are becoming more versatile, accessible, and eco-friendly.

Sources:

"The Ancient History of Menstruation." PBS. Retrieved from: PBS History.
"A Brief History of Menstrual Products: From Rags to Riches." History Today. Retrieved from: History of Menstrual Products.
Robinson, Alice. "How Menstrual Cups Are Changing the Period Game." The Guardian. Retrieved from: The Guardian Article.
Vostral, Sharra. Under Wraps: A History of Menstrual Hygiene Technology. Lexington Books, 2008.

Disclaimer:

The information provided on this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions regarding your health or well-being. The content shared on this site reflects research and personal opinions and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Onna Care is not liable for any decisions or actions taken based on the information presented.

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