Biocom develops alternative to sanitary napkins, tampons

SAN DIEGO — Regional life sciences association Biocom has introduced a new eco-friendly alternative to sanitary napkins and tampons. Enter FemmyCycle, a product from member FemCap.



The FemmyCycle was granted clearance by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Nov. 16. FemmyCycle creator Alfred Shihata is familiar with developing feminine products. His FDA-approved FemCap is one of the few hormone-free, woman-controlled contraceptive methods available.



"When I developed the FemCap, my goal was to provide women with a safe, effective, hormone-free birth control device. The motivation behind the FemmyCycle was much the same: to provide a safer, more convenient alternative to pads and tampons at a lower economic and environmental cost," Shihata stated.



The FemmyCycle's nonspill design collects and holds menstrual flow for up to 12 hours. Collecting menstrual flow rather than absorbing it eliminates the risk of toxic shock syndrome associated with tampons. In addition, women using the device reported an absence of odor and leaks as the device keeps menstrual fluid away from vaginal walls and vulva and unexposed to air, the company stated.



The FemmyCycle can be worn during exercise and other daily activities. It is a reusable device made of soft, medical grade silicone and lasts for a year or more, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to tampons and pads. The FemmyCycle costs $39.95 per twin pack and will be available online and in stores in early 2013.