Adeline Bondoc began with a simple desire: relief from a persistent, irritating period rash. Commercial sanitary pads left her skin inflamed, a discomfort she initially sought to solve just for herself and her daughter.
The solution arrived in the form of cloth pads, a surprisingly effective remedy. But this wasn’t just about personal comfort; it sparked a realization. She wasn’t alone in her struggle, and a much larger issue lay hidden beneath the surface of everyday discomfort.
Losing her job during the pandemic became an unexpected turning point. Armed with YouTube tutorials, Adeline began crafting her own cloth pads, using vibrant, deadstock fabrics she loved. What started as a personal project quickly evolved into something far more significant.
She discovered the pervasive stigma surrounding menstruation, the hushed tones and unspoken discomfort. Women freely discussed relationships, yet shied away from openly addressing their periods. This silence, she realized, masked a deeper problem: period poverty.
Research revealed a heartbreaking truth. Countless girls and women lacked access to basic sanitary products, forcing them to miss school, abandon their education, and become trapped in a cycle of poverty. A period shouldn’t dictate a future, yet for many, it did.
Adeline’s pads aren’t just an alternative; they’re a sustainable solution. While disposable pads can take centuries to decompose, releasing microplastics into the environment, her washable pads are designed to last for years – two to three, potentially even a decade with proper care.
She meticulously instructs users on proper care: change pads frequently, use well-fitting underwear for optimal absorption, and avoid fabric conditioners that can hinder absorbency. Thorough drying is crucial to prevent mildew and maintain hygiene.
Beyond individual health, Adeline’s work extends to disaster relief. She recognized that even amidst chaos and loss, a woman’s period doesn’t pause. Her pads are now included in care packages, acknowledging a fundamental need often overlooked.
The impact extends to those battling serious illness. Adeline shared the story of a cancer patient whose skin suffered from prolonged bleeding and irritation caused by commercial pads. Relieving that discomfort allowed the patient to focus on her fight for life, not a secondary rash.
Adeline now conducts workshops, empowering girls to create their own cloth pads and potentially establish their own small businesses. She believes in the power of self-sufficiency and the ripple effect of empowering women.
“When you empower a woman,” she says with conviction, “she raises empowered children.” It’s a simple yet profound truth, a beacon of hope in a world often shadowed by inequality and silence. Her journey began with a rash, but blossomed into a powerful advocacy for dignity, sustainability, and a future where every woman can manage her period with comfort and respect.
She’s learned a valuable lesson throughout this journey: women possess an innate nurturing spirit and an exceptional attention to detail, qualities often underestimated but essential for creating positive change.
