While period poverty remains a prevalent challenge, it’s solvable through committed leadership supporting local resources and partners. It’s been our longstanding conviction that the solution to period poverty–menstrual equity–must include both sustainable disposable as well as reusable products, in addition to education, pain management and ending stigma. These solutions must furthermore be socially inclusive and universally accessible. Having been in conversation with multiple partners in the menstrual care and equity space over many years, we’re thrilled to see the Government of Canada taki ..read more

Period underwear is all the rage right now. Designed to absorb menstrual blood, period underwear prevents leaks and stains without feeling wet or bulky. Sounds awesome, right? But does period underwear live up to the hype? How does period underwear even work?!  I’ve been using period underwear for the past 5+ years. I wear it alone — no pads, no tampons, and no cups. Nothing but my trusty period underwear. And no, they've never leaked! As a veteran period underwear user, I can assure you that period underwear is 100% worth it. I’m here to get real about period underwear and answer all you ..read more

POV: You wake up feeling nauseated and can’t figure out why. You think, is it something I ate? The room spins a bit and every time you turn your head the feeling gets a bit worse. You reach for the Advil and your cramp cream while you prepare for the inevitable, and then it happens.  Your period.  This is a picture many of us who get periods understand⎯the sudden onset of PMS symptoms that still take us by surprise. Some people experience PMS symptoms every time, while others have different rhythms and flows (no pun intended) to their periods.  Experiencing n ..read more

Period underwear, period pants, period panties — or period undies as we like to call them here at Aisle - whatever you want to call them, they are having a bit of a moment right now. And, let’s be honest what’s not to like? Comfortable, eco-friendly, and easy-to-use; period underwear really does have it all! Maybe you’ve never tried period underwear before. Maybe you think they’re a myth. You might even think they’re gross (btw they’re not). We’re here to give you the low-down so you can figure out whether they’re the right fit for you. This period-packed guide has everything you need to know ..read more

Signs of menopause can begin to creep up unexpectedly and have you wondering WTF is going on with your body. You’re too young to be going through this, right? RIGHT?! I mean, you’re only in your late 30s/early 40s.  The timing of your period is out of whack, your libido isn’t quite what it used to be and oh my god, why is it so hot in here?! Babe, don’t panic - it could be perimenopause.  What is Perimenopause? Perimenopause, often referred to as the menopausal transition, is a natural phase for people with uteruses that signals the approach of menopause. Menopause itself is the ..read more

Have you ever noticed a surge in your sex drive during your period? Contrary to common misconceptions, feeling hornier during menstruation is not uncommon. Many individuals experience heightened arousal and desire during this time of the month.  And before you say anything about it being gross, or your partner being potentially turned off we need to check our stigma around period sex at the door. While period sex may not be for everybody, and that’s ok, there are some benefits to having period sex that you may not know.  Let's delve into the science behind why you may feel more incli ..read more

Image via @artbyauntflow Note from the author: I have been sober from alcohol for a few years, and own that I am far from ‘neutral’ in my beliefs about alcohol. I am not a medical professional or scientist, and this post is not a replacement for professional medical advice. This is part of my own personal research and exploration, and we hope that you’re able to take from it what you need to. If you or someone you know struggles with an alcohol use disorder, speak to your healthcare provider. head here and here/. not the opinion of Aisle. An increasing number of people are doing Dry January or ..read more

As we saw in a recent post that told the story of Sloan, a fictional university student grappling with period poverty, reusable products have an essential role to play in achieving universal, sustainable menstrual equity. Excitingly, this is playing out in real time across campuses in Canada and the US as student governments and administrators seek to implement inclusive, long-term solutions. The Aisle team has created a new free resource for students, student government leaders and administrators looking to learn about what’s possible on their campuses. Why Post-Secondary Institutions (PSIs ..read more

It’s been with increasing pride that the Aisle team has been watching recent strides by the Canadian government toward ending period poverty. The latest news, that Food Banks Canada will be administering a national pilot to provide free menstrual products as part of a $25 million Menstrual Equity fund, is yet another example of this. Food Banks Canada operates multiple locations across Canada, and is uniquely well-positioned to provide people in need with menstrual products in addition to food. It makes abundant sense that those experiencing food insecurity are similarly dealing with period po ..read more

If figuring out how to wash period underwear or cloth pads seems daunting - good news! Aisle undies and pads are intentionally designed to fit easily into your regular laundry routine. How to wash cloth pads + undies (and actually get them clean) Rinse in cold water until it runs clear Throw them in the washing machine on cold with your regular detergent, and similar colours. Avoid bleach, hydrogen peroxide, fabric softener and scent boosters which may inhibit absorbency and break down the leakproof layers. Pop in the dryer on Low, or if there’s time, hang to dry ..read more