There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to menstrual products. What works for one woman might not work for another. This is because we all have different cycle lengths, flow quantities, vaginal conditions, and different comfort levels. So, it’s important to understand and explore different methods of taking care of our period.
See our list of pros and cons of the most popular period products.
Tampons
Tampons are one of the most popular menstrual products today and for good reason. These little cotton bits offer the freedom to feel comfortable and be active without worrying about leaks.
Pros
Discreet
Tampons are small and easy to keep in your handbag or even your pocket. This makes it easy to be prepared and allows for quick and easy changes. Depending on your flow, most tampon brands recommend a tampon change every 4 to 8 hours. So, it’s great to have a discreet and easy-to-use option.
Active
Tampons give you the confidence to be active without feeling any wet sensations. With tampons, you’re free to do exercise, play sport and even swim comfortably.
Cons
Toxic Shock Syndrome
Although rare, Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is still a possibility. TSS can be a fatal condition caused by bacteria getting into the body and releasing harmful toxins. However, changing your tampon within the specified time reduces your risk.
Flow
If you have a very light flow, inserting a tampon may feel uncomfortable. Conversely, a heavy flow can also cause leakage if you’re wearing the wrong tampon or if you’re not changing it often enough.
Menstrual Pads
Pads are another common menstrual product that has its pros and cons. There are a number of different sizes, shapes, and materials of pads.
Pros
Easy to use and safe
Pads are a good kick-off point for those who are starting their period as they are straight forward to use – simply stick them to your underwear. They are also safe to use with fewer precautions and are also safe enough to use overnight without the risk of TSS.
Different flows
Pads come in a variety of different options to accommodate changes in your flow and activities. This is convenient as your flow generally changes day-to-day over the course of your menstruation cycle.
Cons
Risk visibility
Pads are not very discreet as they’re generally bulky, so you risk seeing them through your outfit. There is also a possibility of spillage because they tend to shift out of place as you move. Replacing them isn’t discreet either! They can make some noise when you’re taking them off your underwear.
Underwear limits
Your thongs and G-strings are going to have to take a backseat if you’re going to wear a pad. Because of the design of a pad, they need to stick on to underwear that is big enough to latch on to. Say hello to panty line.
Menstrual Cups
If you’re not into bulky pads or the potential risks of tampons, then there are other options for you. In recent years there has been a lot of buzz around this little silicone menstrual product.
Pros
Environmentally friendly
The menstrual cup is environmentally friendly as you only need to replace it every 1-5 years (depending on the manufacturer) and can be safely emptied and cleaned every 8 to 12 hours. Most cups are also BPA, latex, and phthalate-free making them better for the environment and better for your body.
Safe to use
Menstrual cups collect blood rather than absorbing it, this reduces your risk of TSS. Because of this, it’s also easier to keep your vaginal pH balance and certain beneficial bacteria in place. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about nasty odors because the fluid doesn’t get exposed to air, unlike other popular menstrual products.
Cons
Messy change
If you’re new to menstrual cups, then changing it may be a bit messy in the beginning. What’s more, is that you may feel awkward about cleaning your cup in a public bathroom.
Period panties
Period panties are underwear that absorbs your menstruation period. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with tampons or pads as a backup for leaks. It’s also useful for women with leaking bladders.
Pros
One-time purchase
The period panties are just like regular underwear in that you can wear and reuse them – which means you’re reducing your waste accumulation.
Stain-free
You won’t have to worry about throwing away your underwear once you find a bloodstain as these panties are specifically moisture-wicking and stain-preventing. It also comes in different styles and flows qualities.
Cons
Odor
Because your period is flowing outside your body, there’s a chance of unwanted odors. Additionally, the wet sensation may be uncomfortable for some.
Pricey
Because it was created with special technology and fabric this underwear is more expensive than your average pair of panties. Depending on how long your cycle is and how often you change them, it can add up to quite a lot of money!If you’re looking for other interesting blogs about you and your body, we have a collection of informative and entertaining info for you!
Want to learn more about the female body? See our blog on the Top 7 Ways To Boost Your Libido
