Let’s be honest – periods are the bane of womankind all over the world. They’re uncomfortable, inconvenient, and sometimes downright painful. Still, it’s one thing to get your period at home. But what if it hits while you’re trekking Kilimanjaro?
Altitude and the physical demands of trekking can throw your menstrual cycle off completely. Your period might come early, last longer, or be heavier than usual. Even if your cycle is normally regular, expect the unexpected and come prepared.
How Does Altitude Affect Your Period?
Altitude can be a tricky beast, and it has one particularly nasty trick up its sleeve for women. High altitude can disrupt your hormones and play havoc on your menstrual cycle.
This means your period might start when you least expect it, or be heavier or longer than usual. Even if you have a super regular cycle, altitude can mess everything up.
Top tip: Bring enough supplies, even if your period isn’t due and you think it won’t start on the trek.
Can I Use Tampons or Menstrual Cups on Kilimanjaro?
At Earth’s Edge, we’re big fans of environmentally friendly products like menstrual cups and period pants. In fact, it’s been known to be a hot topic of conversation in our group chat! But on Kilimanjaro, these are (unfortunately!) not the most practical option.
Without reliable access to hot water to clean them properly, we don’t recommend menstrual cups, reusable pads, or period pants on this trek.
Instead, opt for disposable tampons or pads.
And remember: you won’t find a pharmacy on the mountain, so always carry enough supplies for the entire journey.
How Do I Dispose of Menstrual Products on the Mountain?
Kilimanjaro has a strict leave-no-trace policy, and that includes sanitary waste. You can’t leave anything behind, not even in long drop toilets.
Here’s what to do instead:
- Bring biodegradable sanitary bags to pack out your used products.
- Keep them in a larger zip-lock bag for cleanliness and smell-proof storage.
- Dispose of them properly at the end of the trek.
It’s not glamorous, but it’s part of being a responsible trekker.
Managing period pain on Kilimanjaro
Period cramps can be brutal at the best of times, but they’re even worse when you’re cold, tired, and camping. Pack your preferred painkillers and bring enough to last for the entire expedition.
If your cramps are severe, talk to your GP before your trip. They may be able to prescribe medication to make things more manageable on the mountain.
Want more advice? Check out our full Girls’ Guide to Climbing Kilimanjaro. It covers all the essentials, from managing your period to dealing with personal hygiene and toilets on the mountain.
Or, explore our Kilimanjaro expedition page if you’re ready to take on this epic adventure – periods and all!
