Overview

• Over 12 billion disposable pads and 7 billion tampons enter U.S. landfills each year where they can persist for up to 800 years
• Reusable silicone cups and menstrual discs hold several tampon volumes and can remain in place for up to 12 hours
• Health experts report a significantly lower risk of toxic shock syndrome with cups and discs versus traditional tampons
• Increased experimentation during the pandemic has accelerated mainstream retail availability and consumer willingness to switch
• Regular cleaning in shared restrooms, insertion technique learning curves and potential IUD dislodgement are cited as key barriers