When we think of period products, most people think of pads and tampons. These products are often marketed online, and talked about among peers, however, pads and tampons are not the only options. Everyone's cycle is unique, and with that comes many forms of period care. Today's market has a variety of disposable and reusable period products so that every individual can find what works best for them.
An overview of period products
Pads: Pads are made of absorbent material and are meant to be worn on top of underwear. There are many different options when it comes to pads. All pads have different fits and absorbency levels. For lighter flows there are panty liners (very thin layer of material for light flows, discharge, or spotting) or thinner, less absorbent pads. Heavier flows may require thicker, more absorbent pads, sometimes called maxi-pads, overnight pads, or super pads. Pads come in different lengths, fits, and materials. Some pads are winged - meaning they have extra material that can be folded around the sides of underwear. In addition to choosing the right fit, you have the option to choose if you would like unscented pads or organic cotton material. Some pads are reusable, meaning they can be washed and kept for years. Reusable pads help reduce waste and may be more affordable.
Tampons: Tampons are also made of absorbent material, and just like pads, they come in a variety of fits and materials. What makes tampons different from pads is that they are worn internally. Many tampons come with applicators to help with easy insertion. Depending on flow, there are light, medium, and heavy flow tampons. Tampons should be changed every 4 - 6 hours or as soon as they fill up. Tampons come in many different forms, with the choice of fragrance, or organic materials. Once a tampon is inserted, you should not be able to feel it. Tampons can be a great option for active individuals who can't wear a pad during sports! Just like pads, there are some reusable tampon options. These tampons can be a great option for the environment and help save money. Reusable tampons still need to be changed frequently and washed correctly, making them not right for everyone.
Menstrual cup: A menstrual cup is a small, reusable cup made of a rubber or silicon material. Menstrual cups collect blood, instead of absorbing it. They can hold multiple tampons worth of fluid and can be a more sustainable period option. They are durable, making it so they can last many years which can save money. There are many different types, sizes, and designs of period cups. Menstrual cups are worn internally, and are typically inserted by folding the rim of the cup to make it more compact.
Menstrual disc: A menstrual disc also collects blood instead of absorbing it. Discs are shaped a little differently, with wider rims and a shallower "bowl". Discs sit below the cervix, behind the pubic bone, slightly higher than cups. A menstrual disc has many of the same benefits as a menstrual cup. Many are reusable and hold more fluid than a tampon. Discs hold more fluid than cups, making them perfect for those with heavier flows. Again there are many different varieties of discs, from disposable discs to different sizes, removal strings / hooks, and rim shape. Because many discs are reusable, they can be a good way to save money and be sustainable.
Period underwear: There are many options when it comes to period underwear. Period underwear can come as boxers, underwear, and even waterproof swimsuits. These are a great option for someone who is less comfortable using internal products. Period underwear sometimes absorbs fluid better than a regular pad, making them a dry, mess-free experience. Because they are reusable they are a great way to save money and be sustainable.
My story
For me personally, I found that tampons frequently irritated me, but pads didn't provide enough protection during sports. That's when I decided to try a disc. Because discs are designed to catch blood instead of absorb it, I found they irritated me less. It took some getting used to, and in the beginning I occasionally had some leaks. I'd recommend pairing the disc with a panty liner while first getting used to it. For me it has been the perfect solution! I leave the disc in all day, and it keeps me comfortable during school and sports. Most discs can stay in for up to 12 hours and hold several tampons worth of flow. There are several different discs on the market, each with different insertion methods, removal aids, and leak proof designs. Through some trial and error I found one that works best for me! My advice to anyone looking to try new period products is to be patient and open to experimenting. Periods don't need to be any more uncomfortable than they already are.
PS: Trying new products can be intimidating, especially when it comes to insertion. Most websites that sell discs or cups have an information section with tips and tricks to help with successful insertion. If tampons or pads aren't working for you, don't be afraid to experiment with new products.