Being unprotected during the period is a difficult, if not unimaginable thought for many women, as they are used to pads, tampons, panty liners, and menstrual cups. But that's exactly what Free Flow fans do: they use no hygiene protection during menstruation and let the menstrual blood flow directly into the toilet. In short, they "do" their days just like one does pee. But is that really possible?
Free Flow Instinct: Principle and Advantages
This trend, which originated in the United States, made its breakthrough in France in 2015 thanks to the internet. It initially convinced female bloggers and YouTubers, especially those who were already committed to environmental protection and naturalness. Thus, the method has become particularly well-known through interactions on social networks.
The Free-Flow Instinct is intended to help women experience their period more comfortably, on one hand by gaining better control over their bodies and on the other hand by reducing dependence on industrially produced menstrual hygiene products. Specifically, this means learning to feel the onset of discharge in the vagina and going to the bathroom at the right time to let the blood flow. Once one has experience with this, it is theoretically possible to hold back the flow of blood. In fact, fans of this method say that this holding back happens instinctively. Therefore, they do not leak at night and can sleep without protection: their body takes control spontaneously. Only in the morning, when it is time to go to the bathroom, does the blood start to flow again.
The most important body part in the technique of Free Flow Instinct is the perineum. It is considered an integral part of the sphincter muscle - just like the bladder or the anus - and according to this method, it would be sufficient to contract it to prevent the flow.
This method allows for a sense of security on the first day of menstruation even without protection, as you only need to hold back the flow. It is also practical when you are traveling, have a very busy schedule, or cannot buy menstrual protection at the moment. If you listen to your body, sex will also be more enjoyable.
"Be that as it may, the followers believe that this method is a true liberation. In most testimonials, the same statement can be found: Most women who have tried the Free Flow Instinct experience their menstruation more positively, even those who suffer from pain during their period."
This method also has the advantage of being truly environmentally friendly. Zero waste, no chemical substances or actions that could cause a toxic shock: The Free Flow Instinct seems to be the ideal alternative to traditional menstrual hygiene. Above all, this method is free. Therefore, it is a solution for women who find themselves in a precarious situation every month.
How do you create the Free Flow Instinct?
According to the supporters, it should be possible for all women to learn this technique, even if it may be difficult for some. Women who use the coil or have a heavy period find it harder to control their bleeding. The same applies to women who have given birth and whose vulva has widened or whose perineum is not strong enough. In this case, the supporters of the method recommend targeted pelvic floor training.
Despite such difficulties, there are mothers and women with heavy menstrual bleeding who testify to the effectiveness of the Free Flow Instinct. To master the method, one must train for about three or four cycles without putting pressure on oneself. There is no foolproof technique to achieve this, but the followers offer some advice.
"In your opinion, disposable pads should be avoided. Their presence leads to a sense of complacency and triggers bleeding, as the brain knows that protection is available. It is better to stick to washable pads or an improvised panty liner made from a piece of toilet paper, with the challenge being to avoid staining the toilet paper. A period panty is ideal here to train the Free Flow Instinct. It is worn like regular underwear and prevents you from becoming careless, while also ensuring that no unwanted stains occur in the event of an "accident.""
"It is advisable to start training calmly at home, then at your workplace, and later step by step in other locations. Self-confidence is very important for making progress, and contrary to what one might think, one should avoid constantly tensing the pelvic floor. This is exhausting, creates stress, and is not very effective."
What are the disadvantages?
"While the female supporters enthusiastically talk about the many advantages of the Free-Flow Instinct, specialists from the medical field remain skeptical. For the doctors who have heard about it, it is more of a performance than a method. It is impossible for all women to achieve this performance, as the vagina is not a sphincter. In their view, it cannot be controlled to contract, like one would hold back urine during a strong urge."
Some doctors also warn women about the potential danger of blood stagnating in the vagina. The vagina is not sterile, and there could be an infection. When it comes to the freedom and self-control that fans of the Free Flow Instinct point out, opinions are divided. Wouldn't true freedom be to simply let your blood flow? And wouldn't the desire to control the menstrual flow represent another constraint and a huge mental burden for women?
For Élise Thiébaut, journalist and author of numerous books on menstruation, the fame of the Free-Flow Instinct is explained by the end of the taboo surrounding menstruation and by free expression. This trend shows women's desire to regain control over their bodies. It also reflects the wish to consider healthier and more ecological alternatives to traditional industrially produced menstrual products, especially after traces of pesticides were found in disposable hygiene products.
