Historical Menstrual Hygiene: Traditional Practices & Materials

- Menstrual rags/cloths: These were pieces of cloth or fabric used to absorb menstrual blood. They would be washed and reused by women multiple times.

- Animal skins or fur: These were also used as an alternative to menstrual rags, especially in colder climates.

- Wool, moss or plant fibres: Some cultures used wool, moss or other natural materials to make pads or inserts.

- Disposable items: Some cultures would use disposable materials, such as leaves, grass or sand.

- Specialized vessels or containers: In some cases, women would use containers or vessels to collect menstrual blood. For instance, in ancient Rome, women used a type of terracotta vessel called a "cupula."