Do you want to help develop the menstrual protection of the future?

Many people who menstruate know the stress of finding a toilet in time to change their menstrual product – especially in places with limited access to clean restrooms. Researchers at Mid Sweden University want to change that.

In collaboration with innovation company Sibship and strong partners like Lindex and Stadium, they are developing a new type of tampon – one that can be used for longer than the current 4–6 hour recommendation, without negative effects on the body. The goal is also to ensure the product has minimal environmental impact throughout its entire life cycle.

"We want to create a menstrual product that works in real life – whether you're out in the mountains, at work in a toilet stall without a sink, or in long meetings. There are so many situations where today’s products just don’t meet people’s needs", says Amanda Mattson, researcher at FSCN Research Centre.

From documentary film to international standard

The idea was born after Louise Berg, initiator of the project and founder of Sibship, made a documentary film about menstruation and everyday life. She saw clearly how limiting periods could be, especially in environments where it is difficult to change or handle menstrual products in a hygienic and discreet way.

"I started to think: can't you make a menstrual product that both works better in everyday life and doesn't harm the environment? That's how it all started," says Louise.

The Next Period project has grown from an idea to an interdisciplinary research initiative, where the FSCN Research Centre at Mid Sweden University is the research partner and project owner.

The research is particularly important for women in low-wage countries, where a lack of clean water and toilets makes it particularly difficult to manage menstruation in a hygienic and dignified way.

The research project has also initiated a global effort to develop the first international standard for menstrual protection. Today, there are neither clear requirements for what products may contain nor for how they should be tested. The work has involved around 70 member states, where researchers from FSCN are involved in the work. 

Amanda Mattson, researcher at FSCN Research Centre, is looking for participants who want to test the menstrual products. Photo: Mid Sweden University.

How the tests work

The researchers are now looking for at least five menstruating people, between the ages of 20 and 40, who want to participate in the testing phase of the tampon. A pilot study has already been done and shown that the product is safe.

To be able to participate, you need to live in Sundsvall, not use birth control pills or have an ongoing infection, and be prepared to use the menstrual protection during two menstrual cycles. During the two menstrual cycles, the participants must submit samples to Mid Sweden University four days in a row and keep a menstrual diary.

"What we want now is a few people who see the value of helping to develop something new. These tests are important for us to get a larger statistical basis that shows that the product works in practice," says Amanda Mattson.

These tests are planned for autumn 2025. After that, more user tests await – with a focus on movement, activity and experience.

On the way to the market

The dream is that in a few years, the tampon will be available on the market, both in Sweden and internationally. Then it can hopefully make a difference for millions of menstruating people – and for the environment.

"It's time for such a basic aid as menstrual protection to get the research, consideration and development it deserves," says Amanda Mattson.

Do you want to be part of shaping the future of menstrual protection?

Send your expression of interest to Linn Madsen, linn.madsen@proandpro.se
Linn Madsen is the external process manager in the project. 

Read more about the work to develop the first international standard for menstrual products:

The world's first global standard for menstrual products is taking shape | miun.se