7 Questions Answered about Feminine Hygiene in the Outdoors
Guest Authors: Becca and Dani, co-founders of YourYuckies, a plant-based solution for managing hygiene waste in the outdoors.
When heading outdoors, managing hygiene needs can be a worry for many people, whether you're a seasoned adventurer or just starting out. To boost your confidence and preparedness, we’ve compiled a simple FAQs guide that addresses some frequently asked questions we’ve gotten about managing menstruation and toilet breaks while in the outdoors.
7 Answers to Help you Feel More Prepared as you Head Outdoors!
Q1: What’s your number one tip for peeing in the outdoors?
Location, Location, Location! Popping a squat sounds simple but to follow Leave No Trace principles and be a good steward of the outdoors, pick a spot 200 feet (70 steps) from the trail, water source or campsite. Look for a spot with good drainage like gravel or sandy soil and avoid areas with sensitive vegetation or fragile plants. Oh, and point your feet downhill so you don’t pee on your shoes.
Q2: The wipe vs. drip dry debate after a pee break?
Yes, the great debate continues… really it all comes down to personal preference and what works for you. That being said, women need to pay special attention since they are more prone than guys to having pee-related hygiene and health issues on a trip. You want to do everything you can to keep things clean and dry down there to avoid yeast infections or UTIs. So if you drip dry, do it well! If you wipe, consider using biodegradable toilet paper which you pack out or a reusable pee rag. For women who struggle with a bit of urinary incontinence, especially during exercise, a pair of reusable leakage underwear is game changing. And lastly if you find yourself with nothing handy to wipe with, you can always turn to nature. Moss and plants like Common Mullein, aka Cowboy Toilet Paper, have been around forever.
Q3: What the heck is a cathole and why do I need one?
If you are outdoors and need to poop and there are no facilities or portable toilets available, you'll need to dig a “cathole” to make your deposit.
Choose a spot at least 200 feet (about 70 adult steps) away from water sources, trails, and your campsite to minimize environmental impact.
Using a small trowel or a stick, dig a hole 6-8 inches deep and about 4-6 inches in diameter.
Do your business in the hole.
Cover the waste with soil and organic material (leaves, sticks, etc.) to help it decompose.
Pack out used toilet paper in a sealed plastic bag. Do not bury it.
Q3: Should I postpone my hike if I have my period?
No way! Menstruation shouldn't affect your outdoor activities. With proper preparation and a few adjustments, you can continue enjoying nature. Pack essential supplies like menstrual products, disposal bags, and bio wet wipes. Choose comfortable and moisture-wicking clothing to stay dry and prevent discomfort.
Q4: What menstrual products are the best for outdoor activities?
Choose the product that makes you feel the most comfortable. There are a lot of options out there like tampons, pads, menstrual cups, and period underwear.
Many brands, like Viv, offer a selection of biodegradable products. Consider factors like ease of disposal, comfort, and duration of your outdoor adventure.
Q5: Should I be concerned about attracting bears when I'm on my period in the great outdoors?
There's no evidence to suggest that menstruating attracts wildlife. Yes, this includes bears! However, to minimize any potential risk, use unscented period and hygiene products and store your hygiene kit properly in a bear canister or bear hang overnight. You can also put some coffee grounds or a dry tea bag in your waste storage bag to keep any potential odors at bay.
Q6: Can I just bury my tampons while on the trail?
Never bury or leave menstrual products behind, as this can harm the environment. Follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out all used menstrual products. YourYuckies offers an easy all-in-one plant-based solution allowing you to carry in and carry out your products with ease.
Q7: How do you clean a menstrual cup on an overnight hike?
Pour the contents into a toilet, or if not available, dig and pour into a cathole, 6-8 inches deep, located 200 feet from camp, trail or water source. Using biodegradable soap and drinking water, wash your hands and then your cup, pouring the waste into your cathole.
Hope these answers to common hygiene questions in the outdoors help you feel more confident as you head outside. If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out at info@youryuckies.com.
Happy Trails!
Becca and Dani, Co-Founders of YourYuckies, a plant-based solution for managing hygiene waste in the outdoors.