5 weird and wonderful period accessories

Aika Black-T

What it is: A period-friendly wearable gadget that reaches temperatures of up to 60°C (mmm, heat) and targets cramps by transmitting far infrared (FIR) waves to your aching uterus. A fanny pack this is not.

Weird-o-Meter score: 5

Thinx period panties

What it is: Absorbent underwear that you can free-bleed into. There are models available for your light, medium and heavy days, all of which can be sanitized by a regular cold-water wash.

Weird-o-Meter score: 10

Leaf by BellaBeat

What it is: A Fitbit for your uterus. Well, sort of: This tiny wearable leaf clips to your shirt collar (or doubles as jewellery) and tracks your menstrual cycle, oulation and can even send you reminders to take your birth control.

Weird-o-Meter score: 3

The LoonCup 

What it is: A smart Diva Cup. The silicone insert is Bluetooth-compatible and sends push notifications to your phone when it’s approaching maximum capacity. It can also detect changes in the colour of your flow, which could indicate a health issue.

Weird-o-Meter score: 5/10

Flex menstrual discs

What it is: Looks like a cross between a NuvaRing and a hockey puck, this flexible circular tampon allows you to have sex while on your period and — here’s the real bonus — pose no risk of toxic shock syndrome. According to the brand, one quarter of the back-orders are from men, which is not exactly surprising.

Weird-o-Meter score: 7

First published in 2016, updated in 2017.
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