An experimental additive for menstrual products, derived from seaweed, has the potential to revolutionize period care by turning menstrual blood into a jelly-like substance. This groundbreaking innovation aims to address two major concerns: leaks and the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS). The researchers behind this development believe their product could be incorporated into conventional pads or used as a spill-proof lining for menstrual cups. While currently only tested in laboratory experiments, the prototype has shown promising results.
Lead study author, Dr. Hsu, a biomedical scientist at Virginia Tech, explains the potential benefits of this new approach. “The way these products have worked for a long time is to absorb or retain menstrual fluid so that you can remove it later,” he says. “But what if we could improve menstrual care by solidifying menstrual blood? If it’s in a gel form, it’s less likely to leak and spill.” Leaking is a common concern for menstruators, often causing anxiety and inconvenience, especially in public settings. This is because menstrual blood, unlike blood from a vein, doesn’t clot easily due to fibrinolytic enzymes that break down clots.
The researchers hypothesized that a suitable material could solidify menstrual blood, preventing leaks. Their solution: polysaccharides, long chains of sugar molecules known for their thickening properties. They tested various natural sugars, including xanthan gum, alginate, and kappa carrageenan, using pig’s blood modified to prevent clotting.
Alginate, a seaweed-derived polysaccharide, emerged as the most promising candidate due to its excellent gel-forming properties. This phenomenon, known as calcium-mediated crosslinking, occurs when calcium particles in menstrual blood bind to alginate molecules, creating a stable gel network.
To ensure practicality, the researchers incorporated glycerol to help draw blood through the powdered alginate and added an antibacterial substance derived from algae to prevent the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, a bacteria linked to TSS. This antibacterial substance effectively curbed bacterial growth at body temperature without leaching out of the powder.
The team tested a prototype pad containing the new filler against conventional pads, finding it equally effective in absorbing blood but significantly better at retaining it under pressure. They also tested the powder in a menstrual cup, where it successfully reduced spillage when the cup was removed.
The researchers emphasize that further safety testing and manufacturing processes are needed before this product reaches the market. However, they are optimistic that this innovative solution could significantly improve the lives of menstruators by addressing concerns about leaks and TSS, making period management easier and more comfortable.
