Feelings of twisting ovaries and warm blood are familiar to anyone who menstruates. You’d think something so prevalent in our lives would immediately come with access and care, and yet most of us still stuff pads in our panties and tampons in our bodies, unsustainably made with PFAs and other toxins. Many people don’t even have access to these shoddy materials to soak up the blood.

Cherie Hoeger is the co-founder of Saalt,a company that makes reusable menstrual products, including cups and period underwear, with a focus on sustainability and menstrual equity. Before starting her company, she was just as confused as most people who menstruate by the lack of period product options. A nerve was particularly hit after she spoke with a Venezuelan aunt who couldn’t find menstrual products on…