Saathi Pads

Biodegradable material of banana tree fiber, with plant-based plastics and banana fibre Absorbency level is almost double what current standards asks for.^{Interview with representative} Indian government established standard for absorbency; Saathi pads meet the standard for absorbency and nearly doubles what the standard asks for with the latest design.^{Interview with representative}

Expert comments on biodegradability: Polypropylene nonwovens, which are used for the cover and polyethylene films, which are used for the barrier are not biodegradable, neither are positioning adhesives (i.e. the adhesive to stick the pad to the underwear). Additionally, biodegradability per se does not mean that a product would actually biodegrade under all circumstances. Same as for compostability, the environment for degradation has to be right; e.g. PLA, a corn derived plastic is compostable in commercial hot composting facilities but would not decompose when littered.

Provided by the manufacturer

Up to 8 hours, though varies by woman based upon menstrual flow. Typically 4-6 hours of use. ^{Interview with representative}

The product has undergone extensive research and testing, both within India and also in MIT’s D-Lab. The Saathi team has ensured that the pads follow government standards and may have plans to run clinical trials with interested gynecologists and other clinicians. ^{Interview with representative}

Pad should not be used beyond the recommended time period of 8-10 hours.