Gen Z’s ‘Free Bleeding’ Movement Draws Praise and Concern From Experts

A growing number of Gen Z women are turning to “free bleeding” — ditching pads, tampons, and cups — in the name of comfort and liberation. But while advocates describe it as empowering, health specialists are cautioning that the trend may carry hidden downsides.

A Trend Revived

Free bleeding isn’t new. It stretches back as far as menstruation itself and resurfaced strongly during the feminist wave of the 1970s, when women protested tampons over fears of toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Now, fueled by TikTok challenges and online communities, the practice has become a cultural flashpoint once again.

Why Some Women Choose It

According to physician assistant Katherine Murad of the Cleveland Clinic, there are several reasons women are abandoning traditional period products:

• Cost savings: U.S. women spend around $3 billion annually on pads and tampons. Skipping them helps avoid the so-called “pink tax.”

• Eco-consciousness: Fewer disposables mean less waste in landfills.

• Body confidence: Supporters argue it normalizes menstruation and breaks social stigma.

• Comfort: Pads and tampons can irritate, cause dryness, or trigger dermatitis.

• Accessibility: Free bleeding avoids the hassle of inserting, adjusting, or replacing products throughout the day.

Medically, Murad notes the practice is “generally safe” if proper hygiene is maintained.

Risks Experts Flag

Even with its benefits, free bleeding isn’t without drawbacks:

• Hygiene & odor: Moisture can encourage bacterial buildup and unpleasant smells.

• Bloodborne illness: Though the risk is low, menstrual blood can carry infections; disinfecting surfaces is recommended.

• Skin irritation: Sitting in damp clothing can cause rashes unless breathable fabrics and frequent changes are used.

• Extra laundry: Stains, odor, and constant clothing changes are inevitable.

• Mental load: Worrying about leaks and appearances can lead to stress rather than freedom.

Voices From Both Sides

Supporters say it’s a powerful statement. One Reddit user shared: “I love free bleeding… I use a towel all day so I don’t stain anything. It feels freeing.” Another wrote: “At the beach, it connects me with nature and reminds me that periods are magical.”

On TikTok, Ellie Stiles went viral declaring: “Blood isn’t an inconvenience, it’s a gift. You die each month and are reborn.”

But critics are equally vocal. Some call it “gross” and “unnecessary,” arguing it only creates extra cleaning and ruined clothes. One woman wrote bluntly: “It’s plain stupid. Pads exist for a reason.”

The Divide

For some, free bleeding is a form of empowerment. For others, it’s inconvenient or unhygienic. As with many modern lifestyle trends, what feels liberating to one person may feel impractical to another.

Would you try free bleeding, or do you think it’s going too far? Share your view and let us know what side you’re on.