Free bleeding is a growing trend among Gen Z where menstruating women opt to forgo pads, tampons, or menstrual cups, allowing their blood to flow freely. While once a symbol of feminist protest in the 1970s against toxic shock syndrome concerns, it is gaining renewed popularity through social media platforms like TikTok and Reddit.
Women cite financial relief from expensive period products, environmental benefits from reduced waste, body empowerment, and physical comfort as reasons for embracing free bleeding. It also removes practical difficulties related to inserting menstrual products, appealing to those with mobility or dexterity issues.
Medical experts caution that as long as hygiene is maintained—regular cleaning and changing of clothes—the risk of infection remains low. However, prolonged exposure to menstrual blood on the skin can lead to bacterial buildup causing odor, skin irritation, and potential infections.
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Other concerns include increased laundry, stain removal challenges, and mental stress related to managing the social and practical implications of bleeding freely.
The trend remains divisive as some view it as liberating and natural, while others see it as unhygienic and impractical.
