A period product that has been around for decades is now being considered by experts as a possible solution to period poverty. The menstrual cup — first introduced in the 1930s — has gained popularity in recent years as a zero-waste option for women looking to reduce their environmental impact.

But, according to a recent study published in the Lancet Journal of Public Health, the menstrual cup might also be a viable solution for low-income women who can’t afford to buy monthly period products. While the cup is a cost-effective alternative to disposable pads and tampons, is it enough to end period poverty?

On this episode of the podcast, we speak with several experts, including the author of the Lancet study, Penelope Phillips-Howard, to find out if menstrual cups are as promising as they seem.

This episode is part of series on period poverty in the U.S. and around the world. The first two episodes can be found here and here.

Kind Cup donated menstrual cups to Direct Relief for distribution to health centers serving low-income women in the United States.