Self-Cleaning Menstrual Cups with Plant-Based Biodegradable Superabsorbent Fibrous Tablets for Hygienic and...

Menstrual cups are a sustainable and reusable alternative to pads and tampons, offering reduced waste and lower risks of allergies, infections, and toxic shock syndrome. However, their widespread adoption and long-term use are hindered by hygiene concerns, specifically biofouling and the need for messy removal. We report a self-cleaning menstrual cup with a biocompatible silicone oil-infused coating combined with a biodegradable plant-based tablet composed of superabsorbent fibers. The absorbent fibers were designed with cross-linked alginate and optimized to achieve high absorption capacities (8 mL water or 15 mL blood per gram fiber) within 8 h. At the same time, the lubricant-infused cups prolonged clotting times and exhibited self-cleaning properties, with little blood detected on the treated cups and a significant reduction in bacterial adhesion/biofilm formation. The fibrous tablet retained blood in an amount equivalent to the full capacity of the menstrual cup, eliminating spillage during removal and facilitating easy emptying. By removing barriers to comfort and convenience, our design and developed materials present a simple and effective advancement in feminine hygiene products that tip the scale in favor of reusable products and advance global environmental stewardship.