Science & technology | Periods
A scientific discovery could lead to leak-free period products
Polymers from algae can turn menstrual blood into a gel
BLEEDING THROUGH a tampon or pad never makes for a good time. The risk of leaks is annoying and stressful for all women who bleed, and especially for the 20% to 30% whose menstrual flow is so heavy that they sometimes must change their tampons or pads every hour. Some dread leaving their homes for fear of getting caught out.
This article appeared in the Science & technology section of the print edition under the headline “Against the flow”
More from Science & technology
Particles that damage satellites can be flushed out of orbit
All it takes is very long radio waves
A common food dye can make skin transparent
The discovery allows scientists to see inside live animals
Fewer babies are born in the months following hot days
The effect is small but consistent
New tech can make air-conditioning less harmful to the planet
The key is energy efficiency
The noisome economics of dung beetles
They are worth millions a year to cattle ranchers
Digital twins are making companies more efficient
They will also help them reap the benefits of advances in AI