Some of  Reddy's recommendations for woman-friendly, body-loving books, websites, publications.

web sites

www.theredtent.net

The Red Tent online.  Place to hear about  what you would like in your red tent, moontime eats, periods with only one ovary, PMS and getting older; topics change all the time. 

www.redwebfoundation.org

Menstrual Health Advocates Organization 

 The Red Web is an umbrella menstrual health organization “dedicated to creating a positive societal view of the lifelong menstrual cycle through education and community”. The Red Web members form a collective of menstrual advocates and educators, so if you work with girls or women and are looking for a supportive community around menstruation, join the Web. Also a great resource of knowledgeable menstrual health advocates.

One of the MOST comprehensive archives of books, websites, articles, projects, etc - almost anything menstrual 

www.tampontification.com

We are loving this. Seventh Generation are donating chlorine-free pads and tampons to women shelters. All it takes is a click from you to bring it to your state.

Read menstrual stories, check out the Mission Fairies blog, write poetry. They are bringing menstruation out of the closet, for sure!

www.natracare.com

 Our favorite disposable products ever! The genius woman who designed these pads has taken her website to the logical next step - explaining our cycles to us. What a fabulous site to teach girls about their bodies. So sweetly done too. Bravo!

www.seac.org/tampons

Information about the tampon industry 

"Menstrual health activists and the Tampaction Campaign aim to eradicate the use of unhealthy, unsustainable tampons and pads, institutionalize sustainable alternatives into our schools and communities, and infuse healthy attitudes surrounding menstruation into our culture's consciousness." Featuring many tampon send-back actions, the collecting of extensive resources, ...speakers on this topic ..., countless workshops at conferences, community centers and schools.

www.spotsite.org

Great resource for powerful articles on the toxic feminine protection industry

www.onewoman.com

excellent site for info about menstruation that goes beyond the physiology. the site to share with our girls

Museum of Menstruation.  All you'd want to know about the history of menstruation and more.  

www.menstruation.com.au

An Australian site with an unabashed alternative perspective. Lots of practical info but still some info from the 'women's health as deficit" perspective.

Books and Publications

menstruation

*101 ways to celebrate menstruation by Kami McBride.

Kami has mixed grandma advice and millennium reality with flourish, to create a collection of ideas that inspire and challenge us. With so many options, no more excuses for neglecting yourself. Delicious and tender.   

www.livingawareness.com   Also check out her wonderfully woman-nurturing website.

*mother-daughter wisdom by Christine Northrop
Christine seems to channel the mother we all want and want to be. An invaluable tomb embodying guidance on everything - from menstruation to finance to how to hold yourself in the world. For moms and/and/or daughters and more.

*blood, bread, and roses. How menstruation created the world by Judy Grahn

Moonflow Magazine  www.moonflowpower.com   a magazine about our menstrual experience 

women's health

*women's bodies, women's wisdom by Christine Northrop
Also mother-daughter wisdom (see above)

*the new our bodies, ourselves by the Boston women's health book collective

"women, sex and desire" elizabeth davis

*herbal healing for women by Rosemary Gladstar

*the roots of healing: a woman's book of herbs by Deb Soule

*women’s herbs, women’s health by Christopher Hobbs and Kathi Keville

menarche

*Becoming Peers - Mentoring Girls into Womanhood by DeAnna L'am

Having recently walked the walk of a mom of a menarche girl, I cannot recommend enough:
*The Seven Sacred Rites of Menarche: The Spiritual Journey of the Adolescent Girl by Kristi Meisenbach Boylan.
It is a very insightful look at the reality that is our girls’ lives, especially helpful when we can’t remember the subtleties of that time.

*girls like us edited by Gina Misiroglu (not about menarche directly but delightful to share with our girls)

And because we love our sons and want them to be fantastic partners:
*Raising Cain: protecting the emotional life of boys, by Dan Kindlon and Michael Thompson

Hormones and the Female Experience

    "Living life in a female body without understanding what's happening hormonally is like steering a ship without a compass"

 WORKSHOP INCLUDES:

• A fun, easy-to-understand experiential journey through our hormonal cycle

• An exploration of how our hormones FEEL and how we recognize them

 • Tools for tracking our cycles

•  An intuitive understanding of how each hormone contributes to our daily experience

•  A non-judgmental framework from which to explore our relationship with our bodies

• How hormonal literacy deepens our connection to ourselves and other women

VENUE:  CIRCLE CENTER,  FAIRFAX
DATE: SATURDAY, JANUARY 31 2009
TIME:  1 - 5.30         PRICE: $50
MEN AND WOMEN WELCOME

CONTACT INFORMATION
This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it     415.454.7237  

Email to register now. 10% discount for early bird registration - before Dec 25th.

Class size is limited.

I bought the Reddy pads at the San Francisco Green Festival.  I was aware of the benefits but nervous nonetheless.  Wow!  What a joy they are.    I guess it is logical that if I honour my body with being able to detox naturally then I get the benefits of healthy cycles.  Reddy Pads are fabulous.  I find them easy to use and reliable.  Thank you for creating them.

Thanks SO much for such a wonderful product. I have tried many other options over the years, but now I always look forward to putting on my Reddy pad. My first day with RP I walked in the sun for 6 hours and never thought twice about it. So comfortable! And so much better than a scratchy sweaty disposable pad - eeeyuck. Reddy Pads are the best, by far!! ~skl

I'm totally loving these panty-less pads. They feel way better than your typical pad, and better than thong underwear. Not wearing underwear and not having something stuck inside of me while bleeding is so cool. They stay in place, unlike cloth pads that clip (and slip) around underwear, which I've been using for years and have to be careful with, to make sure I don't leak onto my undies. AW

I love your product...I have to admit I was slightly apprehensive at first, but now I think Reddy's pads are nothing but wonderful. I feel so in touch with myself, nature, and for what they do for the environment--I only wish more women were open to the idea of using these--but I do keep spreading the word!!! KM, IN

 I got the pads yesterday, and I saw your note asking if I need a belt to go along with the panty-free pads that I ordered. I just wanted to let you know that I already have a belt and some pads that I got at the Solar Living Center in Hopland last year. I was so happy to find out that I could order more pads online, now that I live in Denver. They're the best pads I've used.  JT, CO

Thanks for offering these products!  MS, MA

 I have one of your pads that I got at a festival...I love it...bought glads and they are not good and leaky...need 6 more of your panty free pads...how should I order...let me know....I can't wait to get more of your pads...they have transformed my period experience and are amazing...want to get them soon! love and thanks, RJ, CA

 Hi! I work at the printing company that made some journals for you earlier this year. The idea of cloth pads has always appealed to me, and after finding this website in the journal I have been convinced. I have ordered a whole set without even trying one first! I am looking forward to their arrival, and thank you!

I was a presenter at the Red Web Conference recently at the JCC - I taught yoga in the afternoon. I purchased on single, and should've gotten more then, but didn't.  KL, CA

I love my lunar calendar and my reddy pads, I use them both every month for over 3 years now! Thanks for everything you have done for women with your blessed products. xo  LL, (Bioneers afficianada)

I'm so glad I found you! I HATE throwing away massive amounts of plastic when I use pads and I also don't like supporting an industry that stereotypes women in their advertisements. Thank you! EF, CA

I emailed Ashley about a month ago about your pads.She was extremely helpful. This is my first experience with cloth pads.  I'm disabled. I ordered a 3 pack of Heavy PF without a belt.  Here are my thoughts:They are pretty, very comfortable, EXTREMELY absorbent. Very simple one piece design, was easy to position no vertical movement.  Because of the width I had some leakage to edging of my underwear. Due to the thickness, slow to air dry. Overall I like them a lot. I would like to order more as my budget permits. J

Hello hello! We are so psyched to find your lovely-looking pads...SO much less bulky than the other cloth ones we've tried, and you offer organics too! Many happy periods to you, and thanks. xoxo L & S,  AZ

Thank you.  I'll be recommending these to my daughter and friends.  Very comfortable and easy.  Great design. JS, 

I ADORE them! They all work just wondefully, and I feel so, so comfortable in them! The panty-free are perfect for night time b/c they just don't budge! Which, after using folded strips of cloth, is a BEAUTIFUL thing. SB, CA

I love the panty-free option. I was surprised I liked the belt idea (as women of a previous generation I know bemoan the days they used belts) but I find it to be extremely comfortable. thanks for an ingenious design. N. OR

Hello Reddy's
I special ordered the pads in white cotton.I want to thank you for your excellent customer service! You made me feel like a friend rather than a customer.Thank you very much, N.

I 'm bleeding and LOVING it. I always do but these are the best pads EVER, and I have tried a whole variety of washables and disposables. So Thank you Ashley. And the belts sizes are great. they are not even at their full width, so they totally work for us larger ladies!! I am looking forward to spreading the good news, especially to all the pregnant Mamas for their postpartum blood. Thanks for the calendar too. My cycle has been unusual since I broke my leg, so it's nice to be charting it again. MF, HI

I have been using cloth pads for years now and the move away from tampons changed my experience of menstrating completely. I stopped having cramps and stopped worrying about TSS. Then few years ago my sister introduced me to your design and I will never buy anything else again. The belt is so comfortable, and I don't have to worry about the pad sliding around like I did with the other pads that clip onto your panties. (I even secretly look forward to my period so that I can wear them.) Thanks.  Michelle

Thanks for getting back to me--I look forward to receiving my order and giving things a try.  I'm impressed by your level of service; not only a personal reply but an offer to "custom tweak"...very good!  It sets you apart from many companies that lack anything slightly resembling "service."  Have a great weekend!  Warm regards, Christa, MO

Great products! The design is far superior to other cloth pads I have tried.I am ordering more! Jennifer, NC

I've been wearing Reddy's for about 3 or 4 years now (just ordering some more). I really am thankful for the meaningful work you do - educating women and supplying a great product. I'm happy to support such ethical and wonderful people. Thanks, Regina

"Everyone loved your pads! Your pads bring healing and beauty into women's lives! Thank you for doing what you do." Kami McBride - author of 101 Ways to Celebrate Menstruation

Dear Kind Woman, I met you at Health and Harmony and called you to order etc. Please exchange this never opened new pad for the same thickness in a panty-free style pad. They are the greatest! Thanks Judy

Can't wait to try them. I've had my eye on your pads for a very longtime. Now I'll be able to show my friends as well as feature them atmy next Menstrual product showing. Tracy,  San Francisco

I was at the Michigan Women’s Fest last summer and got a belt then, with different absorbencies. I just love them, I’ve told lots of women about your site. Thank you!  Tess

 I tried the Reddy’s pad on and it fits awesome. I'm excited to test it out. My moon isn't for another couple of weeks, but as soon as I'm done testing out this pad, I wanna get some more. It was great meeting you today. I hope to run into you again sometime. Chicks like you are way too scarce in my life nowadays.   Nadia

 "B started her period today and she is loving her Reddy’s already." Daniela

 Thank you for the great work you are doing, it is so important. Warm regards, Anastasia

Hello! I bought my first cloth pad at the country fair this year, and I love it! So I'd like to get some more. Jennifer 

Hi, we met last Saturday at SolFest, … I had the chance to read through your … and was very impressed -- I love the way you interweave the many different themes (bodily awareness, environmental issues, comfort, etc) and so matter-of-factly yet respectfully approach the often-taboo topic of menstruation.  Your booth was beautiful and elegant as well -- after walking through the whole show, it was one of a very few that stuck in my mind.  Tara

 Ashley, Thank you for filling my order so quickly. I received the Reddy’s pads over the weekend...they're great. Thank you.  Jennifer

Thank you for getting back to me. I learned about your pads from Kami McBride...she spoke very highly of them!! I can't wait to try them. And thanks for coming out with a female friendly, environmentally friendly product!!  Jennifer

 Hi there. I met you at the Green Fest and bought one of your pads. I love it and want two more. Thank you, Stacey

 I don’t know how I would do without my Reddy’s Pads.  Sophia

 I’ve discovered the miracle that is Reddy’s! I wanted to thank the lovely people responsible for creating these fabulous menstrual pads. I’ve yet to use anything that feels better than my new Reddy’s. I’m spreading the word as fast as I can. Cheers!!!  Regina.

 I am sitting here wearing your pad for the first time… I don’t have cramps today. Usually I’m throwing up. I haven’t had to take Advil or crampbark. They are amazing! Bari

 I am so glad I found your pads! I've used them for over a year and my 13 year old daughter just reached menarche - this order is to up my supply and to provide for her. She is very sensitive and didn't like disposable pads - these are perfect!  CJ, PA

REDDY'S BIRTHING TUBS

Serving the Bay Area and Beyond

Reddy’s Offers the  AquaDoula Birthing and Labor Tub

  WHAT ARE BIRTHING TUBS?

 Birthing Tubs are large portable spa-like tubs especially designed for labor and/or birth at home.

 The tubs are easy to set up in under 20 minutes. No tools are required.

 The tubs are

v     soft yet sturdy

v     deep - to provide buoyancy

v     large -  to comfortably accommodate two adults (mother and helpmate)

v     spacious - for a variety of labor positions.

 After your baby arrives, just drain, clean and repack the tub and call us to pick-up.

 If you wish to enjoy the tub before the baby is born, you will need a second disposable liner to ensure a sanitary tub for delivery. The liners cost $20 each.

WHY USE A TUB IN LABOR?

  Many women are naturally drawn to water, especially during pregnancy and childbirth. Warm water immersion reduces the physical discomforts of labor by providing an atmosphere of deep relaxation, reduced anxiety and pain relief. The buoyancy of water lessens the effects of gravity and increases mobility. The warm water also helps relax the pelvic floor, allowing it to gently stretch, reducing the risk of tissue trauma or the need for episiotomies.

 Birthing tubs have proven to be an effective method of reducing the need for medical intervention and drug intervention during labor.

“Birthing tubs used for labor can make that which seems totally impossible more manageable. The more relaxed you are, the higher your pain threshold.” Bay Area midwife. 

AQUADOULA FEATURES

v     Up to 3 days without replacing the water

v     temperature controlled by a thermostat, which monitors the two wall heaters for a safe and consistent temperature

v     floating thermometer included to accurately determine the water temperature

v     heating system designed to maintain the desired water temperature, although some temperature rise will occur with the cover in place

v     sturdy support - the tubs are designed to take the weight of people leaning on the sides.

v     ample size accommodates 2 to 3 adults with easy access

v     filling takes 40-60 minutes

v     for more detailed description and pictures, please see www.aquadoula.com

SANITIZATION POLICY

 Reddy’s tubs are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized between rentals. We provide disposable liners with the AquaDoula. After use, the liner is easily removed and disposed of by the client.

 When the tubs are returned, they are sterilized with germicidal detergent before being shipped to the next family.

 To avoid contamination, each client provides their own fresh, clean garden hose for filling and draining.

  FEES AND SERVICES

b    Self-Service Rental - WAS $225 plus tax, NOW $175 plus tax - you pick up and drop off the tub yourself (from our Fairfax address).

b    Full-Service Rental - WAS $ 275 plus tax, NOW $225 plus tax includes delivery, set up and pick up.

The rental period is 2-3 weeks before the due date until 1 week after the birth.

RENTAL POLICY

Reservations, Refunds and Security Deposit

 The tub will be delivered to your home, or picked up by you 2-3 weeks before your due date.  To receive the rental agreement, you can call us at 415.454.7237 and leave your name, due date and email address. You can also email us at This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it .

The reservation is confirmed on the receipt of the signed rental contract, payment for the birthing tub and the security deposit. (Payment can be made by credit card for an additional $10).

 We ask for a  $250 security deposit made out on a separate check and postdated 2 weeks after your due date. This will be returned when the birthing tub is returned, inspected and found to be clean and in a satisfactory working condition. The check will be returned within 14 days.

 We recommend reserving your tub as soon as you decide to use one. Tubs are in high demand – it’s reassuring not to worry about tub availability as your due date draws near.

 
THE SMALL PRINT

 Rental reservations are confirmed with a signed AquaDoula Rental Contract prior to delivery. All AD rentals are delivered prepaid.

 Cancellation for tubs will be refunded less a $75 non refundable portion only if cancellation is received 3 weeks prior to the tub’s delivery date.

 Once the tub is received no refunds will be issued for any circumstances. These include: tub not used; complications of pregnancy; practitioner of hospital does not allow use of the tub; tub was used and returned within a short period of time; fill hose couldn’t be connected to plumbing; tub leaked due to faulty set-up; etc.

 The renter agrees to pay the replacement cost and loss of use of any part or equipment which is directly damaged by misuse or negligent handling while in their possession, or not returned with a month of the due date; this financial liability may be up to $1300. This could result from incorrect installation, repositioning the tub after set-up, puncturing or ripping the tub's permanent liner; running the heating unit dry; dropping or cracking the drain pump and damage or loss of provided supplies.

 In the event of possible damage, renter agrees to contact us immediately. This allows us the opportunity to assess the damage and to order replacement parts if needed.

 The security deposit will be refunded in full within 14 days of receiving the complete, clean undamaged birthing tub with all accessories. The replacement cost of any damaged equipment or necessary additional cleaning of the tub will be billed against renter’s deposit, and an invoice itemizing these charges will be mailed to the renter.

In the event of severe damage to the tub itself, an invoice for additional payment will be sent.

 Your rental period ends one week after the birth of your baby.

 Reddy’s and affiliated manufacturers are not responsible or liable for maternal or infant complications or injury connected with the use of the birthing tub that may occur before, during or after the labor or birth.

 SOME RESEARCH

 "Reports reveal that when women float and move freely in a birth pool, their need is reduced for drugs to stimulate uterine activity and for pain relief (and hence the risks of anesthesia); they are less likely to have a bad tear or episiotomy, the rates of intact perinaeum are increased and fewer forceps deliveries and cesarean sections are performed.”

 Kitzinger S. Letter from England: Is waterbirth dangerous?  Birth  1995  22:3  172-3 

"Blood pressure can be reduced within minutes by immersion in warm water." 

Rosenthal M.  Water immersion in labor and birth.  Female Patient  1991  16:35-47 

"Warm water immersion has been shown to decrease edema and increase diuresis." 

Katz V., Ryder R., Cefalo R., Carmichael S., Goolsby R.

“ A comparison of bedrest and immersion for treating the edema of pregnancy.”