Product test
5 menstrual cups in comparison
by Carina Iten
Swapping tampons for natural sponges – yay or nay?
8.8.2023
Translation: Eva Francis
Pictures: Natalie Hemengül
I stopped using tampons and started using a natural sponge instead. It’s considered an environmentally friendly alternative to the white cotton plugs. Here’s how it went.
Note: After I published this review, Hera Organics sent me an e-mail to inform me that some of the struggles I initially had were soon to be improved. I've mentioned these new features at the end of this article.
First impressions
S about 5 cm × 3 cm
M about 6 cm × 3,5 cm
L about 7 cm × 4 cm
According to the manufacturer, you should only use a sponge for two to three menstrual cycles and then replace it. This makes sponges more sustainable than tampons, at least in terms of waste and degradability. But they’re not nearly as durable as menstrual cups, which you can use for up to ten years, depending on the manufacturer.
Preparation
According to the instructions, I need to carry out this ritual before and after my cycle.
The next morning, more dissolved fibres are floating in the pool of vinegar water. I rinse the sponges thoroughly under running water and, as instructed by the manufacturer, examine them for any natural leftovers such as stones that might be stuck in the holes.
The test phase
What I didn’t expect is that Hera Organics also warns against using a sponge if you have a coil, as the sponge could get caught in it. I’m a bit annoyed for a moment, but then decide to continue the self-experiment at my own risk. At worst, I’ll end up at the gynaecologist.
In and out; in and out...
I make my first attempts in the shower. Unlike a regular tampon, you need to insert the sponge when it’s wet. Squeeze it between your thumb and forefinger and insert it – that’s the theory. My practice leaves a lot to be desired. It takes mental effort for me to insert something that doesn’t have a retractable cord. I briefly consider attaching one to the sponge myself, but then dismiss the idea.
I give the sponge another quick wash and then decide to cut it into the elongated shape of a tampon. This is an option according to the instructions, but turns my size M into an S. Of course I could have opted for an S in the first place, but I’m here to test all options. Also, it’s good to know that you can always cut a larger sponge into a smaller size. Why? Well, there’s no need to order several packages in different sizes.
I give it another go and this time, the sponge is in the right place and I can finally hop out of the shower.
Wearing a sponge
Tip: If you ever have trouble getting the sponge out, the manufacturer recommends a vaginal douche. A fully soaked sponge slides down automatically.
I don’t get to experience wearing it for the mentioned seven hours this week. My maximum is four. I also don’t experiment with different sizes, as each sponge would require me to try out how to best place the shape and size. Besides, I don’t think I can fit anything larger into me than my tailored M sponge. It doesn’t leak once. Throughout the night, however, I prefer using a sanitary pad, as there’s a risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome with natural sponges.
Whenever I sneeze, I feel the sponge. The tension in the pelvic floor makes it slide out a bit. In this case, I recommend checking and, if need, be, reinserting it. This also happens with tampons, but only when they’re completely soaked.
At home, removing and washing out the sponge isn’t a problem. Public toilets are a different story. One option would be to carry a water bottle with you and use it to wash out the sponge over the toilet. That’s not for me.
Plus, how hygienic is a sponge that’s wet throughout the week and is only washed out? I have my doubts.
My verdict
Want to read more about this topic? My colleague Maike recently published an article about Free Bleeding:
Header image: Natalie Hemengül
Natalie Hemengül
Senior Editor
Natalie.Hemenguel@digitecgalaxus.chAs a massive Disney fan, I see the world through rose-tinted glasses. I worship series from the 90s and consider mermaids a religion. When I’m not dancing in glitter rain, I’m either hanging out at pyjama parties or sitting at my make-up table. P.S. I love you, bacon, garlic and onions.
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