Nora and Joud Alorainy, Saudi sisters, founded C., a company selling women-oriented organic and biodegradable menstrual pads. The brand's core principle is to emphasize the interconnectedness of preserving both our bodies and the environment. The name "C." symbolizes "comfort" and "cycle," aligning with the brand's belief that, much like the sea, our bodies undergo natural ebbs and flows.
The sisters recognized a gap in the Saudi market for eco-friendly feminine hygiene products while living in the US. Discovering biodegradable and organic pads' positive impact inspired them to establish C., creating awareness around the significance of utilizing biodegradable menstrual pads. Clinical trials confirmed their products' superior absorbency compared to conventional pads.
Traditional single-use menstrual products contribute to approximately 200,000 tons of global waste annually. C.'s organic pads, along with biodegradable packaging, tackle this problem by eliminating plastic within the pads and casings, thus reducing plastic waste.
The Alorainy sisters recognized that due to cultural taboos, many women in the Arab region lack awareness of the health consequences of using regular conventional pads. Studies have shown that non-organic sanitary pads contain toxic chemicals that can impact reproductive health and lead to irregular periods. C.'s pads are manufactured using organic cotton and are devoid of chlorine bleaching, pesticides, fragrances, polyester, and harmful chemicals. Ethically sourced elements, including food-grade glue and the Japanese Sumitomo Super Absorbent Polymer, are utilized in production.
Initially, the sisters attempted to convince US companies to expand into Saudi Arabia, but the high demand in the domestic market hindered progress. Hence, they took it upon themselves to introduce the product to Saudi Arabia, providing women with a mindful choice for their bodies.
C.'s products have obtained certifications from esteemed global organizations, including the International Organization for Standardization, the US Food and Drug Administration, the Global Organic Textile Standard, and the CE standard, ensuring health, safety, and environmental compliance.
Since the company's launch, the Alorainy sisters have collaborated with gynecologists and medical professionals, conducting quarterly educational sessions to empower women with knowledge about feminine health and mindful sustainable choices.
C. not only offers an eco-friendly product but also spearheads a movement to empower women and foster a deeper connection between women and their bodies and the world around them. The brand aims to break the taboo surrounding menstrual products and encourage open discussions about their impact on both health and the environment.
While there may be limited awareness initially, C. is witnessing positive feedback from users, indicating a growing interest in organic pads and an increasing shift towards sustainable choices among consumers.
