Woman holding a reusable pad beside another woman
HEAL Health, Environment and Active Living logo with a magenta flower icon and text on a white background.
THE 6-MONTH MONEY-BACK CHALLENGE

Period Problems?
There's a Real Fix.

Switch to Saukhyam reusable pads for 6 months.

Period problems not better?

Return your pads - even used - for a full refund.

Before: Pain & Discomfort After: Comfort & Confidence
77%
Reported pain reduction
81%
Cycle regularity improved
92%
Continued beyond 6 months
74%
Complete shift in 3 months
100% Risk-Free Promise

Try Saukhyam for 6 months. If you're not satisfied, get a full refund. Even used pads.

Woman walking outdoors in nature surrounded by greenery and warm sunlight
⚡ HOW IT WORKS

The HEAL Challenge in 3 Steps

One of the most powerful interventions in women's health - and the simplest.
No pills. No procedures. No side effects.

STEP 01

Make the Switch

Stop using disposable sanitary napkins. Make a 100% shift to Saukhyam reusable pads. If you cannot switch immediately, follow the 2-3-4 formula (explained in Step 2) to transition gradually over 3 months.

✓ Remove the #1 overlooked source of hormonal disruption
100%
Chemical-free switch
2-3-4
Gradual formula available
Why does switching work? →
STEP 02

6 Months. That's All.

Give your body a full 6 months - either a 3-month gradual transition followed by 3 months of complete reusable use, or the full 6 months using Saukhyam exclusively.

✓ Your body needs uninterrupted time to self-correct
3
months transition
3
months complete use
= Healing
Can't switch all at once? See the 2-3-4 Formula →
STEP 03

Money Back. No Questions.

If your period problems have not reduced or improved, return your pads, even used, and we will refund your money completely. No questions asked.

✓ 0.7% refund claims in 2+ years of the HEAL Challenge
0.7%
Refund claims ever
100%
Money-back if no results
How does the refund process work? →
Woman walking outdoors in nature surrounded by greenery and warm sunlight

Ready to Take the HEAL Challenge?

6 months. A complete switch to Saukhyam reusable pads.
A full refund if your period problems don't improve.
Join hundreds of thousands who have already healed.

🧬 THE SCIENCE

Why Switching Heals

PCOS/PMOS is a silent pandemic affecting nearly 7 crore Indian women.
One of its most overlooked triggers is the daily exposure to
hormone-disrupting chemicals through disposable pads. Here is the chain:

01
THE SOURCE

Chemicals in Disposable Pads

Conventional disposable pads contain dioxins, phthalates, VOCs, superabsorbent polymers, fragrances, and synthetic bleaching residues - all confirmed or suspected endocrine disruptors. Found in every tested brand.

Dioxins Phthalates VOCs Fragrances Bleach Residues
02
THE ROUTE

Direct Bloodstream Entry

Vaginal tissue is highly vascular. Unlike food, chemicals here bypass the liver's first-pass metabolism and enter the bloodstream directly.

4-6 days per cycle, every month, for decades
03
THE DAMAGE

Hormonal Disruption

Endocrine disruptors mimic estrogen and interfere with the HPO axis - the body's core hormonal regulator.

PCOS/PMOS Irregular Cycles Heavy Bleeding Severe Cramps
04
THE RESOLUTION

Remove the Source.
Heal.

The menstrual cycle is a tightly regulated, self-correcting system. Remove the primary chemical source - disposable pads - and many women find the body begins to restore its natural hormonal rhythm.

✓ No medication. No procedure. Just removing the source of harm.
CLINICAL INSIGHT

Fertility & PCOS/PMOS - What Doctors Are Now Seeing

70-80% of women with ovulation-related infertility have PCOS/PMOS. Fertility doctors familiar with our work are now prescribing reusable menstrual products as a first-line intervention - before pills or procedures - and reporting real results: more regular periods, PCOS/PMOS symptoms reducing, and in many cases, natural conception.

₹10/mo
FOR REUSABLE PADS
VS ₹15,000-5,00,000 FOR FERTILITY TREATMENT
GRADUAL TRANSITION

The 2-3-4 Formula

Can't switch 100% from day one? That's okay. Use this gradual approach to build confidence over 3 months - then complete your switch and start your healing clock.
The full 6-month challenge still applies.

A
MONTH 1
2
days with reusables

Start on your lightest flow days - usually the last 2 days of your cycle. Use at home, when comfortable.

→
B
MONTH 2
3
days with reusables

Extend to 3 days. You can
still use disposables on the
remaining days of the cycle.

→
C
MONTH 3
4+
days with reusables

Cover most of your cycle.
By now many feel ready
to make a complete shift.

After Month 3: You are ready for a complete shift. Use Saukhyam for every day of your period - for at least 3 more months.This gives your body the uninterrupted, chemical-free environment it needs to self-correct. 

Total: 3 months transition + 3 months complete usage = the full 6-month HEAL Challenge.

Woman smiling while using her smartphone at home.
0.7% refund claims in 2+ years of running the HEAL Challenge

Start the HEAL Challenge

We are confident enough in this challenge to offer a full, no-questions-asked refund. Here is exactly how it works:

1

Enroll Before You Begin

Fill a short form at purchase describing your period problems. This establishes your baseline for the healing journey.

2

Return Used Pads

If after 6 months your problems haven't improved, mail your used pads back to us. No judgment, no awkwardness.

3

Full Refund. Guaranteed.

We process your complete refund. No fine print, no conditions beyond an honest 6-month attempt with reusable pads.

Note: Structural conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, cannot fully resolve from a product switch alone. However, your overall period experience - pain, regularity, comfort - is very likely to improve. The refund applies when period problems do not get better in any measurable way.

✧ REAL STORIES

Real Healing. Documented.

These are case studies from those who shared their journeys publicly - every one of them asked the same question we are asking you to consider.

HEAL FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Browse by topic to find answers about the HEAL Challenge, reusable pads, menstrual health, and more.

Irregular periods can occur due to hormonal imbalances, stress, lifestyle factors, PCOS/PMOS and other health conditions. Cycles that are unpredictable, inconsistent in timing, or sometimes skipped altogether are often early signs that something is off internally.
Menstrual cycles longer than 35 days would be considered irregular and would warrant further evaluation, especially if this happens repeatedly.
Period pain can have many causes. It is also extremely common. In our studies, nearly 3 out of 4 menstruators reported experiencing moderate to severe cramps.
Many girls participating in HEAL have reported that their cramps reduced within a few months of switching to reusable pads.
If your periods are consistently painful, it may be worth taking a closer look at the products and practices that are part of your menstrual routine.
For some girls and women, period pain may be linked to conditions such as dysmenorrhea, endometriosis, fibroids. If your pain is severe or interfering with daily life, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.
This is one of the biggest misconceptions. Mild discomfort is common. Severe pain is not normal.
If pain stops daily activity, requires frequent medication, or worsens over time, it may indicate an underlying issue. Pain is a signal, not something to normalize.
Many girls who have switched to reusable pads have reported that their cramps eased considerably over a period of 3–4 months.
Extremely severe cramps may be a sign of dysmenorrhea or another underlying condition. If your pain is severe, please consult a healthcare professional.
In our studies, nearly 3 out of 4 menstruators reported experiencing moderate to severe cramps. Many HEAL participants report that cramps reduce within a few months of switching to reusables.
If your periods are consistently painful, it may be worth rethinking the menstrual products you use every month.
Common reasons can include:
Stress - even emotional stress can delay ovulation
Hormonal imbalance - if ovulation is delayed, periods are delayed
Lifestyle changes - travel, sleep disruption, diet shifts
Underlying conditions such as PCOS
Heavy bleeding may include soaking pads every 1–2 hours and/or bleeding beyond 7 days. Possible causes can include hormonal imbalance or PCOS. When the body is not exposed to chemicals from disposable sanitary napkins, and its begins to heal, we have seen heavy bleeding symptoms improve. Heavy bleeding can lead to fatigue and its wise to consult a doctor if symptoms persist.
Fatigue during periods can happen due to:
Blood loss, especially in heavy periods
Hormonal drop - estrogen and progesterone decrease
Nutritional factors - iron deficiency is common
Poor sleep or stress
Many girls say "My periods were fine earlier… now something has changed." Changes can be triggered by lifestyle shifts, stress, diet, or environmental exposure. The body is dynamic, but sudden and sustained changes are signals, not coincidences.
Missing a period can happen due to stress, hormonal imbalance, extreme weight changes, PCOS, or illness. If occasional, it is not always concerning. If frequent, it needs deeper understanding.
PCOS, now known as PMOS, is a hormonal condition that can lead to irregular periods and other menstrual health problems. The full form of PCOS is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. PMOS is Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome.
The HEAL Challenge was designed to support girls and women experiencing these kinds of conditions.
PMOS is the new name of PCOS. It is a hormonal condition that can lead to irregular periods and other menstrual health problems. The full form of PMOS is Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome.
The HEAL Challenge was designed to support girls and women experiencing these kinds of conditions.
Common early signs include:
Irregular or missed periods
Painful periods
Abnormally heavy bleeding
AcneUnwanted facial hair
Weight gain
Difficulty conceiving
Possible contributing factors include:
Lifestyle changes — processed food, sedentary routines, poor sleep
Chronic stress disrupting hormonal signaling
Environmental exposure — endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs)
Increased awareness and diagnosis
Doctors say there is no single "cure" for PCOS/PMOS. But many girls and women are able to successfully manage their symptoms and improve their menstrual health through lifestyle changes and interventions like the HEAL Challenge.
Many experience improvements in cycle regularity, period pain, heavy bleeding, and other symptoms. You can also work with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the best approach for your individual situation.
No. Not everyone with PCOS/PMOS has ovarian cysts. PCOS/PMOS is a hormonal condition. Many girls with PCOS/PMOS have irregular periods or other symptoms even when ovarian cysts are not present.
Symptoms may improve with:
Lifestyle changes and better metabolic health
Reduced stress
Improved hormonal balance
Reducing exposure to certain chemicals
No. Irregular periods can be caused by stress, lifestyle changes, thyroid issues, or temporary hormonal fluctuations. PCOS is just one possible cause, not the only one.
Nobody knows the exact cause of PCOS/PMOS. What science does confirm is that endocrine-disrupting chemicals (dioxins, phthalates, VOCs) interfere with the hormonal systems that regulate the menstrual cycle.
The vaginal route of absorption is especially significant because these chemicals bypass the liver and enter the bloodstream directly. Even small trace amounts can have a disproportionate hormonal effect.
Research increasingly shows higher exposure to endocrine disruptors is associated with PCOS/PMOS.
Key areas include:
Nutrition — balanced, whole foods support hormone health
Physical activity — improves insulin sensitivity
Sleep — regulates hormonal cycles
Stress management — reduces hormonal disruption
Reducing exposure — limiting contact with potential endocrine disruptors
Many users began with severe, life-disrupting pain — some required hospital injections or 3–4 painkillers per day. After switching, pain reduced significantly and in some cases disappeared completely.
Others report pain that is not zero but far more manageable without heavy medication.
Users with gaps of months between cycles reported that within 6 months, periods became completely regular without medication. In long-term users, regularity was sustained over years.
Several users with PCOS shared long-term outcomes including reduced pain, improved cycle frequency, and reduction in symptoms like acne and hair fall. In one case, cysts reduced significantly and eventually became cyst-free on ultrasound.
Not every user reported complete elimination of all symptoms. Some still have pain but find it manageable, or underlying conditions still exist. But even then, comfort improved significantly and dependency on medication reduced.
These are real lived experiences across ages 22 to 47, different conditions, and different geographies — not clinical trials, but real change in real lives.
While many menstrual concerns can improve with awareness and lifestyle changes, some situations require medical evaluation. Consider seeing a doctor if your periods are consistently irregular, you experience severe pain, or symptoms interfere with daily life.
Certain symptoms should not be ignored:
Severe or worsening pain
Very heavy bleeding (soaking frequently)
Bleeding lasting more than 7–8 days
Missed periods for several months (not due to pregnancy)
Yes. HEAL can complement medical care by improving awareness, supporting lifestyle changes, and enabling tracking. It is not a replacement — it is a support system.
Doctors help with diagnosis, treatment, and medical management. Self-care (like HEAL) helps with awareness, daily habits, and consistency. The best outcomes often come from combining both.
Severe bleeding and dizziness would require urgent medical attention. You should contact a healthcare professional immediately.
A menstruator may use approximately 8,000–12,000 disposable sanitary napkins during their lifetime. This translates to over 100 kg of menstrual waste.
Disposable pads can take hundreds of years to decompose because plastic does not break down easily and materials are layered and processed. Pads used today may remain in landfills for generations.
The environmental impact comes from raw material extraction, manufacturing, packaging, transportation, and disposal. Each stage contributes to carbon emissions.
One girl who shifts to reusable menstrual products prevents the emission of 5.8 kg carbon dioxide equivalent annually, every year for the rest of her menstruating lifetime.
Your periods are yours. If switching helps you experience more comfortable periods and freedom from period problems, then that one decision can make a big difference over your menstruating lifetime.
The environmental impact is a bonus. What is good for our bodies is what is good for the planet too. One girl who shifts to reusable menstrual products prevents the emission of 5.8 kg carbon dioxide equivalent annually.
Yes. Reusable menstrual products are a climate-positive solution. A single reusable pad can replace hundreds of disposable sanitary napkins over its lifetime, significantly reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills.
By choosing reusables, you are not only reducing your environmental footprint but also helping create a more sustainable future for generations to come.
HEAL sits at the intersection of personal health and environmental sustainability. By shifting products and habits, individual health may improve while environmental impact reduces — creating a dual benefit system.
Yes. One of the most powerful parts of this journey is realizing you are not alone. Many users share similar concerns, face similar challenges, and go through similar transitions.
Yes. HEAL offers WhatsApp-based community support where users can ask questions and share experiences. As part of CARE, we also regularly do offline workshops on college campuses.
Yes. Users can send questions to our doctors. Answers will be provided in your DMs. You can also send your question or experience to the admin who will post it anonymously in the community.
Absolutely. Sharing your story helps others relate, builds trust, and inspires action. Many movements grow through shared experience, not just information.
Menstruation is the monthly shedding of the uterine lining when pregnancy does not occur. Every month, the body prepares for the possibility of pregnancy by building a soft, nutrient-rich lining inside the uterus. If fertilization does not happen, the body releases this lining — that release is what we experience as a period.
It is not a "waste removal process" like urine or feces. It is part of a reproductive cycle designed to support life.
The menstrual cycle is not just "bleeding days." It is a continuous hormonal cycle that typically lasts 21–35 days with four phases:
Menstrual phase – bleeding occurs
Follicular phase – body prepares an egg
Ovulation – egg is released
Luteal phase – body prepares for possible pregnancy
Periods happen because the body is preparing for pregnancy every month. If pregnancy does not occur, hormone levels drop, the uterine lining is no longer needed, and the body sheds it. Menstruation is a sign of an active reproductive system, not a malfunction.
Most girls begin menstruating between 10 and 15 years of age. This first period is called menarche. However, an early start (before 10) or late start (after 15–16) may need attention, especially if accompanied by other symptoms.
Periods usually stop between 45 and 55 years of age. This stage is called menopause, when ovaries stop releasing eggs and hormone levels decline. Before menopause, many women experience perimenopause, where cycles become irregular.
Yes — and this is often misunderstood. Hormonal fluctuations can affect mood, energy levels, appetite, and sleep. This is not "imaginary" — it is biological. However, extreme emotional distress or severe symptoms may need attention.
Menstrual health varies due to:
Hormonal balance — each person's hormone levels and sensitivity differ
Lifestyle factors — diet, sleep, stress, physical activity
Environmental exposure — certain chemicals like endocrine disruptors may affect hormonal balance
Product choice — what you use during periods may influence comfort and exposure
A healthy period is typically:
Regular (predictable cycle)
Manageable (no severe pain)
Balanced (not too heavy or too light)Short (3–7 days)
Yes — periods are often called a "monthly report card" of health. Changes in your cycle can indicate hormonal imbalance, nutritional deficiencies, stress levels, or underlying conditions like PCOS.
For example: irregular cycles may signal hormonal imbalance; heavy bleeding may indicate an underlying issue; missed periods may reflect systemic stress or imbalance.
A normal menstrual cycle is typically between 21 and 35 days long. Day 1 is the first day of bleeding, and the cycle ends the day before the next period begins. Variation is normal, but persistent irregularity would require attention.
No. Menstrual cycles between 21 and 35 days are generally considered normal. Many people assume 28 days is standard, but the key is predictability over time, not perfection.
The menstrual cycle includes four interconnected phases:
Menstrual phase – bleeding occurs, hormones are low
Follicular phase – body prepares an egg, estrogen rises
Ovulation phase – egg is released, peak fertility
Luteal phase – progesterone rises; if no pregnancy, hormones drop and the next period begins
Ovulation is when the ovary releases an egg. It is the central event of the cycle. Regular ovulation indicates healthy hormonal function.
If ovulation does not occur regularly, cycles may become irregular and hormonal imbalance may increase. Many menstrual problems are actually ovulation problems in disguise.
Estrogen builds the uterine lining, increases energy and mood, and is dominant in the first half of the cycle. Progesterone stabilizes the lining, supports calmness, and is dominant in the second half.
When these hormones are balanced, cycles are regular and symptoms are minimal. When disrupted, irregular periods, pain, and mood changes can follow
Cycle changes can happen due to stress, travel, illness, sleep disruption, or dietary changes. Occasional variation is normal, but frequent changes indicate underlying imbalance.
Mark Day 1 as the first day of bleeding. Count until the day before your next period. That number is your cycle length. For example: Day 1 on Jan 1, next period on Jan 29 = 28-day cycle. Tracking this over months reveals patterns.
A regular cycle has consistent length (within 2–3 days variation) and predictable timing. An irregular cycle is unpredictable, frequently missed, or widely varying in length.
Irregularity is one of the earliest signs of hormonal imbalance, stress overload, or conditions like PCOS.
Stress affects the cycle through the brain-hormone connection. The hypothalamus controls hormone release and ovulation timing. When stress increases, cortisol rises and hormonal signals get disrupted.
This can lead to delayed periods, missed ovulation, and irregular cycles. Your cycle is highly sensitive to your environment.
Tracking is not just recording dates. It helps you understand patterns, triggers, and improvements — such as pain reducing over months, cycles becoming regular, or mood stabilizing.
This is exactly why HEAL emphasizes tracking. What gets tracked gets understood. What gets understood can improve.
It's very simple:
Rinse the pad in normal tap water after use. You can also soak it for a few minutes before rinsing
Wash it by hand using soap, just as you would wash your other undergarments
Do not use a brush. Reusable pads do not generally stain, and vigorous brushing can damage the delicate cotton fabric
Dry the pad completely before storing it. Sunlight is ideal, but open-air drying works well too
Store it in a clean, dry place until the next cycle
That's completely normal. Menstrual blood is what nourished us when we were in our mother's womb. It is not a waste product like urine or feces. It does not smell.
If you have spent your entire life using disposable products, the idea of washing a menstrual pad can feel unfamiliar at first. The good news is that most users find the process much easier than they expected. Handling and washing a reusable pad is no different from washing any other undergarment.
No. In fact, this is one of the biggest surprises for new users.
Many girls and women may spend their entire lives thinking periods naturally smell bad. When they switch to reusables, they realize the nasty odor they associated with periods was never the period itself — it was the disposable sanitary napkin.
Absolutely. Sunlight offers one of the best ways to dry reusable pads. But if direct sunlight is not available, drying them in a well-ventilated area works fine. The most important thing is to ensure the pad is completely dry before storing or reusing it.
Hormones are chemical messengers in the body. They travel through the bloodstream and tell different organs what to do. Estrogen and progesterone regulate the menstrual cycle; insulin regulates blood sugar; cortisol responds to stress.
Even small changes in hormone levels can have noticeable effects because hormones work in precise balance, not in isolation.
Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interfere with normal hormone function. They mimic hormones, block hormone signals, or alter the way hormones are produced, transported, or used by the body.
Research has identified known endocrine-disrupting chemicals in disposable sanitary napkins. HEAL is based on the hypothesis that reducing repeated exposure to such chemicals helps support better menstrual health.
Yes. Many studies have detected chemicals such as phthalates, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and dioxins in disposable sanitary napkins. Many of these chemicals are known endocrine disruptors.
They originate from the materials used to manufacture the pad, including plastics, adhesives, fragrances, and absorbent gels. At HEAL, we believe girls and women deserve full transparency about the products they use every month.
Many chemicals found in sanitary napkins are known endocrine disruptors. Studies suggest that repeated exposure to these endocrine-disrupting chemicals would affect hormonal balance over time.
Endocrine disruptors are present in everyday life: plastics, cosmetics, personal care products, food packaging, pesticides, and menstrual products. Exposure is often low-dose but continuous.
There are multiple pathways:
Skin absorption — from products applied on the body
Inhalation — from air, sprays, fragrances
Ingestion — through food and water
Mucosal absorption — especially important for menstrual health; the vaginal area is highly permeable and substances can enter directly into the bloodstream, bypassing some natural detox pathways
In many cases, reducing exposure can support hormonal balance, reduce unnecessary stress on the body, and allow natural regulatory systems to function better. This does not mean instant change, but over time the body may respond positively.
There is no fixed timeline. Hormonal systems take time because they operate in cycles and changes are gradual. For menstrual health, one cycle is roughly one month, and meaningful patterns are often seen over 3–6 cycles. This is why programs like HEAL are designed for 6 months.
Recent peer-reviewed studies have consistently found that disposable menstrual products contain multiple chemical compounds including phthalates, parabens, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), heavy metals, and microplastics.
Several large reviews confirm that exposure pathways exist through skin and mucosal absorption.
Research has identified:
Phthalates (used in plastics and adhesives)
Bisphenols (BPA-like compounds)VOCs (e.g., toluene)
Heavy metals (lead, cadmium, arsenic)
Microplastic particles
Research from 11 peer-reviewed studies reports:
Phthalates — endocrine disruptors linked to early puberty, irregular cycles, and ovarian dysfunction
Dioxins — carcinogenic compounds from chlorine bleaching of pad materials
VOCs (Toluene etc.) — volatile organic compounds causing headaches, dizziness, and hormonal disruption
BPA (Bisphenol A) — linked to PCOS/PMOS in 22 human studies
Heavy metals — lead, cadmium, arsenic, mercury; neurotoxic and accumulate in the body over time
Additional compounds identified in research include:
Parabens — preservatives that mimic estrogen; linked to hormonal imbalance
Pesticide residues — found in Indian brands; linked to chronic inflammation and infertility
Microplastics — shed from pad surfaces during use; long-term effects under study
Fragrances — synthetic chemicals causing allergic reactions and skin sensitization
SAP (Super Absorbent Polymers) — synthetic gel that creates a humid, bacteria-friendly environment
Recent scientific research on disposable sanitary napkins includes:
11 peer-reviewed studies published in leading journals including BJOG, *Environment International, and PLOS ONE
8 countries tested — heavy metals identified in pads from China, Japan, South Korea, India, USA, UK, Australia, and Germany
22 human studies on BPA–PCOS/PMOS link — most reporting higher BPA exposure among women with PCOS/PMOS
Higher chemical load in Indian pads — Indian brands reported higher concentrations compared with products from the US, EU, and Japan
India-focused studies highlight the presence of pesticide residues and heavy metals, with higher concentrations of certain chemicals compared to global benchmarks. These have been associated with hormonal imbalance, inflammation, and reproductive health concerns.
Current scientific position: there is strong evidence of exposure, established endocrine disruption mechanisms, and growing association with reproductive issues. However, direct causal clinical proof specific to pads is still evolving.
The precautionary approach suggests: if a risk is plausible and exposure is avoidable, it is reasonable to reduce unnecessary exposure.
The precautionary principle suggests that if something may pose a risk, it is reasonable to reduce exposure even if full scientific certainty is not yet established. This principle is widely used in public health and environmental policy.
Saukhyam Foundation is an NGO working at the intersection of menstrual health, sustainability, and women's dignity. Saukhyam's flagship innovation, Saukhyam Reusable Pads, is recognised as the world's first reusable sanitary pad using banana fibre as an absorbent.
Inspired by Amma, Sri Mata Amritanandamayi Devi, Saukhyam has consistently pursued menstrual solutions that are safe for the body, non-polluting for the environment, and empowering for women.
Our work is anchored in three flagship initiatives:
CARE (Campus Action for Reusable Essentials) — focused on college campuses
REACH (Rural Empowerment and Community Health) — focused on rural beneficiaries
HEAL (Health.Environment.Active Living.) — focused on girls experiencing menstrual disorders
Saukhyam's innovation and impact have received national and international recognition, including:
Women Transforming India Award by NITI Aayog (2022)
Red Shakti Award (2023)
Impact Innovation Award at IIT Global Conference (2024)
Sheroes Award from Kerala Women's Commission (2024)
Sustainability & Eco-Impact Award at the Annual MHM Conference (2025)
Rural Healthcare Organization of the Year Award, Uttarakhand (2025)
Shreyas Award from Rotary International (2026)
Documented outcomes from 2+ years of the HEAL Challenge include:
5,00,000+ women healed
77% reported pain reduction
81% cycle regularity improved
92% continued beyond 6 months
74% complete shift in 3 months
Only 0.7% refund claims ever
Safety depends on multiple factors. Disposable pads contain synthetic materials and often include chemicals and toxins. Reusable pads are typically made from natural fabrics with zero chemicals.
From a material exposure perspective, reusable options are generally believed to be safer than disposables.
Disposable pads involve recurring monthly cost and continuous purchase. Reusable pads are a one-time purchase used for years. Over 3–5 years, reusable products are significantly more economical.
Comfort is subjective, but patterns emerge. Disposable pads may feel dry initially but can feel plastic-like over time and may cause irritation. Reusable pads offer a softer fabric feel, more breathability, and adapt to body movement. Many users report improved comfort after switching, though an initial adjustment period is common.
Rashes can occur due to moisture retention, friction, or material sensitivity. Reusable pads are breathable and reduce moisture buildup. Most users experience reduction in rashes and irritation.
Disposable pads are single-use, contain plastic and contribute to landfill waste. Reusable pads are used for years and generate minimal waste. One user switching can prevent hundreds of pads from entering landfills.
In two words, awareness and access. Not everyone knows about them and how they can be so much better than disposables, and no reusable pad brand has invested massively into advertising. The products are also mostly available online, limiting access. Common myths like "washing is dirty," "it will leak," or "it is inconvenient" are perception barriers, not product barriers, and we believe will be broken over time.
Absolutely. Reusable pads offer the safest, most comfortable, and totally hygienic way to manage periods. Saukhyam pads are used by more than 30 lakh girls and women across India. Most users say that washing and caring for them is much easier than they initially expected.
At HEAL, we believe periods don't need chemicals, fragrances, or synthetic materials. With a simple wash-and-reuse routine, reusable pads can comfortably become a part of your monthly cycle.
Quite the opposite. While reusable pads cost more upfront, they help reduce recurring spending on menstrual products by up to 90%.
Think of it like buying a reusable water bottle — it costs more than a disposable bottle on day one, but it saves money every time you refill it. The same is true for reusable pads: the investment is made once, then they can be used again and again for years.
Yes — disposables are designed for immediate convenience with no washing or reuse. But convenience comes with recurring cost, waste, repeated exposure, and rashes. Reusable products trade short-term convenience for long-term benefits.
Many users report improved comfort, reduced irritation, and better overall experience. Many also observe improvements in cycle patterns. Results are gradual and vary by individual.
Most girls and women who have completed the HEAL Challenge report benefits such as reduced pain, improved cycle regularity, fewer rashes, and more comfortable periods. The key is to make a 100% shift to reusable menstrual products and stay consistent.
Across users who have used Saukhyam for 6 months to 8+ years, improvements are real but gradual. Experiences vary, but the direction is consistent.
Some girls notice improvements within a few months, while for others it can take 4–6 months. The key is to make a 100% shift to reusable menstrual products and stay consistent. The sooner you make the switch, the sooner your healing begins.
Rashes and irritation are often the first improvements, sometimes visible within weeks.
HEAL stands for Health, Environment & Active Living. It is our program helping girls with period problems switch to reusable pads for better menstrual health.
A 6-month commitment to switch 100% to Saukhyam reusable pads, with a full refund if period problems don't go away in the 6-month period.
You enroll, use reusable pads for 6 months (with an optional 2-3-4 gradual transition), and track your symptoms. If things haven't improved, you can return your pads for a full refund.
Simply purchase Saukhyam reusable pads and after checkout fill out the short enrollment form describing your period problems.
Anyone experiencing period problems such as irregular cycles, cramps, heavy bleeding. Anyone who wants to try a natural, chemical-free approach to healing.
No. HEAL is not a medical treatment and does not replace professional care, especially for structural conditions. It addresses one overlooked factor - chemical exposure from disposable pads.
Many participants have reported more regular cycles, reduced cramps, improved flow and less discomfort within 3-6 months.
Yes, with parental guidance. Reusable pads are safe and suitable for teenagers experiencing period problems.
Yes - our approach is based on peer-reviewed research on endocrine disruptors found in disposable sanitary products.
A gradual transition plan: 2 days with reusables in month 1, 3 days in month 2, and 4+ days in month 3, building up to a full switch.
Disposable pads contain chemicals that can enter the bloodstream directly through vaginal tissue. Removing this exposure allows many women's bodies to self-correct hormonally.
The menstrual and hormonal cycle needs consistent, uninterrupted time to self-correct - 6 months gives the body enough time to show real change.
Partial use still exposes you to the same chemicals on the days you use disposables, which can interfere with results.
That's okay - use the 2-3-4 Formula to transition gradually, but note the refund guarantee only applies to a full 6-month HEAL Challenge attempt.
If your period problems haven't improved after 6 months of full use, we offer a complete, no-questions-asked refund.
Yes - as part of the refund process, you can return your used pads with no judgment.
Typical conditions include:
Completing the 6-month duration.
Maintaining reasonable consistency
Tracking your cycles
The process is designed to be simple: submit a request on the HEAL web app, return products, and receive your refund. No complex procedures - the focus is on trust.
The core principle - removing chemical exposure - will work with any high-quality reusable pad that is cotton-cloth based and uses natural, toxin-free materials. It should work with any reusable period product.
However, Saukhyam is the only product we have 2+ years of documented case studies with. We can only guarantee refunds for our own product.
Structural conditions will not completely resolve from a pad switch alone and we are honest about this. However, your overall period experience (pain levels, regularity, discomfort) is very likely to improve. The experience gets better even if the underlying condition needs separate medical attention.
Ideally yes - healing depends on completely removing the chemical source. But if you cannot switch all at once, use the 2-3-4 formula: 2 days in Month 1, 3 in Month 2, 4+ in Month 3. Allow 3 months for transition + 3 months of complete usage = the full 6-month challenge.
Over nearly a decade of work, Saukhyam Foundation has reached 30 lakh women and girls. However, because of the stigma and taboo surrounding menstruation, it took us time to understand the period-related problems that girls frequently experience.
HEAL, our initiative focused on addressing these problems, is only about two years old. Yet, in this relatively short period, we estimate that HEAL has reached 5 lakh women and girls.
The HEAL Challenge works even for highly irregular cycles. Whenever your period arrives, use reusable pads. The goal is to accumulate at least 2–3 full cycles of reusable use within 6 months. Even if periods come every 2–3 months, the window is designed to give you enough opportunity to see results.
All lifestyle factors contribute to hormonal balance, and we encourage healthy habits. But we are not nutrition or exercise experts, and we do not prescribe these as part of the HEAL Challenge. Our focus is the one intervention that is most overlooked and most impactful: removing the primary environmental toxin source from your period routine.
After you purchase Saukhyam pads for the HEAL Challenge, fill in the enrollment form describing your period problems. If after 6 months you wish to claim a refund, fill in the return form in the HEAL web app and mail your used pads back to us. We process a full refund.
If you are following the 2-3-4 formula, Month 2 means using reusable pads for 3 days of your cycle. Continue building consistency - the full 6-month challenge includes transition time plus complete reusable use to give your body enough time to respond.
HEAL is your period wellness companion. Many of us know more about skincare routines than about what makes for healthy, comfortable periods. HEAL is here to help change that.
Through HEAL, you can learn more about menstrual health and period problems, get answers to your questions, and take part in the HEAL Challenge. Whether you're dealing with cramps, irregular cycles, heavy flow, or simply want to understand your body better, HEAL is here to support you on your journey.
Key features include:
Reminders
Progress dashboard
Guided journey with phased content
Yes — it is on WhatsApp, a platform we are already used to. It focuses on simplicity, minimal inputs, and intuitive flow. Users report feeling guided, not overwhelmed.
We take data privacy very seriously. User data is securely stored, protected, and not shared without consent. You are safe and in control.
Nutrition and lifestyle can influence menstrual health, but HEAL is not qualified to provide expert nutrition advice. For personalized recommendations, it is best to consult a qualified nutritionist or healthcare professional.
HEAL collects structured, user-reported data such as:
Cycle length
Pain levels
Flow patterns
Mood and energy
Product usage
Individually, this helps users understand their own bodies. Collectively, it creates a powerful dataset.
Data is used to:
Identify patterns
Track improvements
Understand trends
Yes. Aggregated data can help:
Identify common patterns
Explore links between lifestyle, exposure, and symptoms
Support future studies — especially in areas where existing research is limited
Over time, structured data can:
Inform healthcare providers
Highlight unmet needs
Support better interventions
Yes — over time. Data can highlight trends, support advocacy, and inform policy decisions. This is especially relevant for menstrual health, product safety, and environmental impact.
Yes. Every user who tracks consistently and participates in the program is contributing to a growing body of knowledge. This makes users participants, not just recipients.
The long-term vision includes building one of the largest menstrual health datasets, improving awareness at scale, enabling preventive health systems, and ultimately changing how menstrual health is understood and managed.
Most systems operate at the individual level or institutional level. HEAL connects both: individual experience → collective insight → systemic change.
For a long time, menstrual health has been personal, data has been limited, and conversations have been fragmented. HEAL creates visibility, structure, and connection — from one cycle, one person, to a shared understanding.
What begins as tracking your own cycle can become contributing to a larger shift in how we understand health, environment, and the connection between them.
Impact scales through more users, more data, and more awareness. Each participant contributes to a larger understanding. As participation grows, insights become stronger.