FOR YOUR HEALTH |
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Better for your body
For decades, menstruators have risked serious illness, such as infection and toxic shock syndrome( TSS), because of disposable sanitary products. This is one of the many reasons periodand leak-proof apparel has become so popular, so quickly.
“ TSS is a rare, but serious and lifethreatening illness. It is caused by certain bacterial infections, and sanitary products – such as tampons – that are not changed regularly can directly cause TSS,” says Sydney GP and menstrual health advocate Dr Michela Sorensen( drmichelasorensen. com).“ One benefit of period underwear is it does not carry this risk.” It’ s important to select periodproof underwear carefully, as some fabrics contain potentially harmful synthetic chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances( PFAS). While understanding of the health effects of long-term PFAS exposure is incomplete, there is global concern about their prevalence and potential for harm.
All Modibodi’ s apparel is OKEO-TEX certified, which means it is free from harmful substances, including PFAS. The items you’ ll find at Costco are made from breathable bamboo, which is crafted from timber that is broken down into a pulp, processed into fibres and spun into yarn known as viscose and lyocell.
“ We use bamboo viscose fabric made from cellulose as it is highly breathable, absorbent and luxuriously soft,” explains Cusack.“ It wicks moisture away from the body and is fast-drying, which makes it perfect for next-to-skin underwear.”
Looking for period-proof underwear that’ s breathable is equally important for vaginal health.
“ Natural fibres that breathe are important to maintain good vaginal health,” Dr Sorensen says.“ Synthetic or non-breathable fibres can lead to a disturbance in the vaginal pH and natural bacteria, leading to conditions like bacterial vaginosis or candida [ thrush ].”
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Better for the planet
Costco’ s Health and Beauty buying team is always looking for leading brands and innovators that can help improve the lives of members and the health of the planet.“ Modibodi is an Australian business with incredible growth that is dominating the market,” says Costco Buyer Rafaella Grech.“ Their sustainability, inclusivity and wide product ranging means there’ s something to suit every member.”
Fabric for Modibodi’ s bamboo viscose period-proof underwear is sourced from Forest Stewardship Council-certified suppliers, and the company is committed to following Canopy Planet’ s Bamboo Standard to help protect the world’ s ancient and endangered forests.
Waste reduction is another important factor. Non-profit organisation Clean Up Australia estimates that one menstruator will use up to 15,000 pads and tampons in a lifetime, nearly all of which ends up in landfill. In addition, 90 percent of conventional pads and tampons contain plastic, taking 300 – 500 years to decompose.
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“ We are constantly working to reduce our environmental impact and we have recently achieved B Corp Business Certification in recognition of this,” says Cusack, adding that each item of periodproof apparel is reusable and tested to ensure it lasts and performs even after 100 washes.“ We are committed to creating the most sustainable, reusable, comfortable, effective and scientifically certified health apparel.”
This attention to quality, value and the environment is particularly important for Costco buyers when looking for new suppliers.“ We are always analysing global efficiencies with an eye to sustainability,” says Grech.“ Through our unique global buying power, we can add value to members everywhere and range a product that’ s better for the planet.”
“ Creating a positive impact is embedded into the products we make,” Cusack adds.“ Reusable period-proof underwear is better for our bodies and the planet.”
Jiyan Dessens is a health and lifestyle journalist and the editor of Costco Connection.
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ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF MODIBODI |
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16 | MAY / JUN 2024 COSTCO CONNECTION |