India, July 13 -- Reusable cloth sanitary pads are increasingly being marketed as a sustainable, affordable alternative to disposable pads. But before making the switch, obstetrician-gynaecologist Dr Ankita Shahasane says women should understand the hygiene measures needed to minimise the risk of infections.

In a July 13 Instagram video, Dr Shahasane explained that while she supports sustainability, reusable cloth pads may pose health risks if they are not washed, dried and stored correctly. "For years, we have told women not to use cloth during menstruation. And now, in 2026, we're back to cloth. We've simply stitched it in the shape of a sanitary pad, added a few layers and labelled it as 'antibacterial'," she said.

According to Dr Sh...