It can be a little daunting with the variety of goods available to fulfil
the needs of menstruators. In order to assist you in selecting the right
product for you, we've put up a list of some of the most popular period
products that are best for you.
1. Pads
Tampons and menstrual pads are the two most frequently chosen period products.
They come in a wide range of sizes, including thin ones for light bleeding
(pantyliners), standard ones for average bleeding, and thick ones for heavier
bleeding (max, "overnight," or "super" pads). Pads can be used as a backup
product in addition to other menstrual products or as a primary menstrual
product.
Some have wings or flaps that protect the sides of your underwear to prevent
leaks and stains. These are particularly helpful if you have an active
lifestyle and move around a lot.
Most pads are disposable and single-use, but reusable options do exist.
Reusable pads are made from fabric and can be washed and reused for years. To
use reusable pads, you simply place one into your underwear like you would a
disposable pad. Instead of the sticky adhesive, you find on disposable pads,
reusable pads are fastened around your underwear with Velcro or snaps. When
you’ve finished with the pad, simply place it in a waterproof, sealed bag (if
you’re out and about), or immediately toss it in cold water to soak, then run
it through the washing machine. It’s as simple as that!
For most pads (disposable and reusable) it’s suggested that they be changed
every 4-6 hours, or when it’s soaked with blood. This will depend on how heavy
your flow is.
2. Tampons
Tampons can be an excellent alternative to pads if you don't like them or find
that they restrict your movement. In order to absorb menstrual blood, tampons
are cylindrical cotton and/or cellulose inserts that fit into the vaginal
canal. Although the majority of tampons are packaged in plastic applicators,
refillable and reusable applicators are available. Every tampon has a string
that can be pulled out and thrown in the garbage easily. Tampons are
single-use only and shouldn't be worn for longer than 8 hours.
Some of the biggest advantages tampons have over pads and other menstrual
products are their size and availability. Like pads, tampons are easily
accessible in grocery and drug stores and even some public bathrooms. They are
also one of the few menstrual hygiene products you can swim with (in addition
to period swimwear, cups, and discs).
3. Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are reusable funnel-shaped cups made of medical-grade silicone
that suctions to the cervix and collects blood. Similar to tampons, they
require insertion but unlike tampons, they can be worn for up to 12 hours and
are reusable. When cleaned and appropriately stored, cups can last up to 10
years. Additionally, cups can hold significantly more fluid than tampons,
requiring fewer trips to the bathroom and providing you with a stronger peace
of mind.
4. Menstrual Discs
Menstrual discs are similar to cups and tampons in that they require insertion
but differ in their placement. Discs fit back into the vaginal fornix (where
the vaginal canal meets the cervix) and collect blood, rather than sitting
within the vaginal canal like a cup or tampon. Because of this, menstrual
discs are a good option for period protection that allows for participation in
sexual activity. Discs, similar to cups, are made of medical-grade silicone
and can provide up to 12 hours of protection. When cared for correctly, discs
can last up to 10 years. No suction is involved when using a menstrual disc.
5. Period Underwear
Period underwear is just like regular underwear, except they have extra layers
of fabric intended to absorb menstrual blood. You can wear them instead of
other products or in conjunction with other products for extra protection.
Just like pads and liners, most period underwear incorporates anti-microbial
and moisture-wicking properties to help prevent odours. Most period underwear
even if some businesses do provide disposable choices. You can wear period
underwear for up to 12 hours without worrying about leaking, depending on your
flow and the style you choose.
6. Period Swimwear
For complete peace of mind when swimming, whether that be at the beach or the
pool, you may want to try period swimwear. These look like any other swimwear
but are designed to absorb menstrual blood and protect from leaks, eliminating
the need to worry about inserting a product like a tampon, cup, or disc.
You may also look to other period-proof clothes during the warmer days like
Period shorts, which again provide a cute and comfy alternative to traditional
menstrual products.
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