As a controversial new trend continues to grip the internet, one expert has today issued a vital warning about the risks of 'free bleeding'.
For those unfamiliar with the term, it has seemingly been coined in recent years by members of the Gen Z community, to describe the phenomena which sees women and people who menstruate ditching period products for good.
This isn't just exclusive to tampons or menstrual cups, however - it also includes bidding adieu to sanitary towels and panty liners.
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Basically, free bleeding is the act of freely menstruating without the use of anything designed to soak up your flow.
While some people opt to ditch the tampons and other sanitary products for reasons such as preference, comfort or health - others partake in free bleeding as part of a larger movement, possibly for political or environmental reasons.
And as we say, the trend is now ramping up in popularity - particularly for individuals aged between 12 and 27 - despite the act still finding itself at the centre of controversial debate on and hygiene, health and societal norms.
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Chiming in on this debate this week is gynaecologist Anna Targonskaya.
The licensed medic, who works primarily on the hormone tracking app, Hormona, spoke exclusively to Tyla this week about some of the effects of free bleeding - both positive and negative.
And though she fully supports any individuals' right to do what they want with their own bodies, she urged those considering trying free bleeding to consider one vital aspect first and foremost.
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"Free bleeding is typically safe for the person doing it, but it's crucial to be considerate of others," she explained.
"I would advise to begin by trying free bleeding at home first to understand your flow and identify the heaviest days of your cycle before deciding when and where it suits you best.
"The stress of managing menstrual flow without products can affect mental well-being, potentially leading to anxiety or discomfort in public settings."
She adds that those who choose to partake in free bleeding will need to 'adjust their clothes changing and washing routine, as blood is not an easy substance to remove completely', - which everyone who has had a period can surely testify towards.
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As well as issuing her warning, however, Targonskaya also used her platform to emphasise the positive effects of free bleeding.
"From a positive perspective, a person may find free bleeding more convenient compared to using hygiene products," she said.
"Especially if their experience with those products is negative due to skin irritation when using pads, or discomfort caused by inserting a menstrual cup or tampons for the first time."
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The gynaecologist continued to say: "Free bleeding also alleviates concerns about potential health risks associated with certain chemicals found in some menstrual products."
Her final point follows an alarming study which determined that numerous toxic chemicals have been found inside women's tampons.
According to researchers at the University of California, who examined a batch of 30 tampons from 14 different brands, a total of 16 metals were detected inside women's hygiene products back in June.
Aside from the toxins found inside period products, free bleeding also has several other benefits.
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"On the positive side, free bleeding is seen by some as a liberating and more natural approach to menstruation, reminiscent of how menstruation occurred historically," Targonskaya said.
"It also eliminates the reliance on disposable menstrual products like tampons and pads, which are both a significant expense and a major source of environmental pollution due to the plastic waste they generate."
She added: "With the average person with a uterus experiencing around 400 periods in their lifetime, the environmental impact of traditional menstrual products is considerable.
"Free bleeding can offer a sustainable alternative, helping to reduce waste and lessen your environmental footprint."
It will also save you money not to fork out on pricey period products every month, and some people have suggested that they've felt less cramps, too.
However, she acknowledges that it isn't for everyone as it could potentially lead to 'leaks, discomfort, and awkward situations'.
"Ultimately, the choice between free bleeding, using period underwear as part of free bleeding, and other methods is a deeply personal one. It’s important for each individual to consider their lifestyle, comfort level, and environmental impact when deciding what’s best for them." Targonskaya concluded.
Topics: Periods, Health, Social Media, Gen Z, Life, True Life
Rhianna Benson