As a reusable pads manufacturer, I say yes, they are by far the best option. This is as long as the material of choice is super comfortable; the absorbency levels are on point and leakproof.  For example, the Wabibi Pads are by far the best in the market.

We have locally available leak proof material that is stitched together with other fabrics on to the pad. The leak proof material is inside the pad. The Wabibi Pad has the leak proof inbuilt so one doesn’t have to worry about leaking of menstrual blood.

About changing, this depends on one’s flow. Heavy flowers can use the pad for at least six hours. Those with the normal flow can use it for eight hours or even more. As long as one can sense that the pad is almost full, then they won’t stain. Naturally, we can tell when the pad is almost full.

The most important thing is water, soap and sunshine, which is a natural disinfectant. As long as soap and water touch that pad, kweisha. Water and soap are great. Sunshine on the other hand is bonus. The most important part is the washing technique.

Both the Wabibi Pad and Afripad can dry even inside the house. However, exposing it to sunshine would work better magic in terms of disinfecting, especially if one has sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

One has to take caution on washing, because of the flannel cotton fabric in the pad that is 100 percent cotton. It is important to note, there are other brands of reusable pads that are using fleece, which is very easy to wash, but isn’t so comfortable in terms of material choice. Fleece tends to warm up, so if one has skin irritations, then fleece wouldn’t be the best choice.

The issue of water is a clear problem. We have spoken to some communities in Karamoja who have this challenge. Most women mentioned that they can’t fail to find water, because they use cloths to absorb blood when in their menses. We advise parents to endeavour teaching their children basic things like how to thoroughly wash their underwear and that also includes reusable pads.

Also in our menstrual hygiene management interventions, we make sure to emphasis on use and care. Most reusable pads come with instruction manuals that support one with information on use and care for them.

Most importantly, also, what makes reusable pads the best choice is that they are cost effective; and vulnerable communities actually need them even the most due to their sustainability.

The views contained in this post were shared via a Karimojong WhatsApp group in conversation on “Reusable menstruation pads under scrutiny in Uganda” post published on our CPAR Uganda website. Useful grassroots knowledge which feeds well into informing our menstrual hygiene campaign. Click here to read more about it and please do make a donation.

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