A SOUTHAMPTON business woman has won an award for her environmentally friendly business.

Teresa Francis won the Venus Awards Green Business of the Year 2013 for Feminine Wear.

She started the online shop selling reusable menstrual products in 2008.

She founded the business after discovering washable cloth menstrual pads on the Internet.

“They were hidden on a washable nappy website,” said Teresa.

“I bought one there and then and just carried on buying more. They were really hard to source and I found very little information on the internet about them. So, I decided to set up a business to sell and promote them as an alternative to disposable menstrual products. I then discovered menstrual cups, which are made of silicone. They are a reusable alternative to tampons.”

Teresa says there are a number of reasons for the growing popularity of reusable menstrual products.

They are better for the environment, reducing waste. Some women find they cause less irritation than conventional menstrual products. Also, they can save money – after the initial investment it doesn’t take long for a saving to be seen, compared to disposable items.

Teresa said: “Thank you to everyone that nominated Feminine Wear for the Venus Award. I am passionate about my business and the products that I sell. Reusable menstrual products are the way forward, as we work towards a greener, more environmentally friendly lifestyle.”

Feminine Wear sells 20 different brands of cloth pads and 19 brands of menstrual cup, as well as sponge and cloth tampons and accessories.