Menstrual Product Options and Alternatives

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.