Periods aren’t our favourite time of the month, but what if they could be easier, healthier, and far less wasteful? The average woman uses between 9,000 and 11,000 disposable period products in her lifetime. All destined for landfill with most containing plastic and chemicals that don’t break down. Yikes!

At Go For Zero, we believe in doing better for our bodies and the planet. That’s why we’re big advocates for natural period products that cut down waste, save money, and avoid the nasties found in many single-use options.

PFAS in Period Care Products

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are over 12,000 synthetic chemicals used for their stain, heat and water-resistant properties. Nicknamed “forever chemicals,” they don’t break down in the environment or our bodies. Research shows nearly nine in ten Australians aged 12+ have PFAS in their blood, with exposure linked to cancer, hormone disruption, immune issues and developmental effects in children.

Studies on PFAS in period care products are ongoing, but these chemicals have already been detected in some tampons, pads, period underwear, and even their wrappers and applicators. One analysis found PFAS in 48% of sanitary pads, 22% of tampons and 65% of period underwear. The good news? PFAS-free options already exist, proving it’s absolutely possible to make safe, sustainable period care products without these chemicals of concern. 

PFAS-Free Period Care Options 

Whether you’re new to the idea or already curious about safe and sustainable period care alternatives, here are five game-changing and PFAS-free swaps that will have you wondering why you didn’t start sooner.

1. Menstrual Discs

Let’s kick things off one of our latest arrives at Go For Zero, the My Mimi Reusable Menstrual Disc. Made from 100% medical-grade silicone, this BPA-free disc gives you up to 12 hours of leak-resistant protection, whether you’re working, sleeping, swimming, or hitting the gym. Unlike cups, discs don’t create suction, making them IUD friendly and easier for many to remove thanks to the clever handle design.

Available in two sizes (small for those under 30 or who haven’t given birth vaginally, and large for those over 30 or who have), it’s an Australian-designed, TGA and FDA approved product built to last more than five years. That’s thousands of single-use products avoided and a whole lot of peace of mind gained. 

2. Period Underwear

If you like the idea of reusables but want something that feels familiar, period underwear could be your perfect match. Designed to look and feel like regular underwear, these Tom Organic Period Briefs have four absorbent layers built in. No leaks, no stress. Depending on your flow, you can comfortably wear them for up to 8 hours, and absorb up to 3 tampons of fluid. 

Perfect for busy lifestyles, travelling, or simply feeling secure on your heaviest days. With good care, this PFAS-free period underwear will last you 2–3 years, hello huge financial savings!

3. Menstrual Cups

A true pioneer in reusable period care, menstrual cups have been around for decades and continue to change lives. The Tom Organic Period Cup is made from medical-grade silicone and is BPA and plastic free. 

Like the period disc, this handy cup also comes in 2 different sizes (regular for those under 30 or who haven’t given birth vaginally, and super for those have, or are over 30). With no strings or wings this period cup can be worn overnight keeping you leak-free for up to 8 hours (2 to 3 times longer than a tampon or pad). Once you’ve got the hang of it, you only need to empty it twice a day. Plus with good care it will last you many years, making it one of the most convenient and cost-friendly reusable options.

4. Reusable Pads

For those who prefer a pad-style product, The Bare and Boho Reusable Cloth Pads are a gentle, eco-conscious swap. Crafted with an inner lining of bamboo and cotton fleece and a leak-proof and PFAS-free polyester outer layer, they’re machine washable, toxin free, and come in a range of sizes ranging from light to ultra/ maternity.  

If you don’t love the white lining, you can level up your period care with the Femme Organic Reusable Organic Cotton Pad. It is fully black, ultra-comfy, and designed to give you sustainable protection with zero waste. Crafted from GOTS Certified Organic Cotton, it's hypoallergenic, breathable, and free from pesticides, bleach, and other harsh chemicals. These reusable pad alternatives will soak up 5 x more than a regular tampon and will last years, depending on care.

5. Organic Cotton Tampons & Pads

Not quite ready for reusables? No worries. Femme Organic’s Organic Cotton Pads and Tampons are the perfect first step. Made from 100% certified organic cotton and wrapped plastic-free, they’re hypoallergenic, chemical free, and fully biodegradable. Unlike mainstream pads that can take over 300 years to break down, Femme Organic’s products typically begin breaking down within 12 months. Available in different absorbencies to suit your flow, they offer breathable comfort without plastic, bleach, or harsh synthetics.

Period Care That Feels Good

Switching to natural and low-waste period products can feel a little daunting at first, but trust us, once you make the leap, you’ll never look back. From the convenience of menstrual discs to the freedom of period underwear and reusable pads, there’s a sustainable solution for everyone.

Every swap you make is a win for your health, your wallet, and the planet. Small changes add up to big impact, and your cycle is the perfect place to start. Ready to give it a go? Your body (and the Earth) will thank you.

Shop our full range of eco-friendly and PFAS free period care essentials here! 

With Love, 
Ellie xoxo