WHAT MENSTRUAL PRODUCTS TO USE
PERIOD PRODUCTS
Periods should not interfere with your daily life. Many items are available to keep you dry and comfortable; the one you choose is entirely up to you. There are various elements to consider that can assist you in narrowing your selection, including the activity you will be performing, the cost of the product, its ease of use, and the product’s environmental impact. To assist you in making your choice, we’ve listed the advantages and disadvantages below.
PADS
These are cotton pads that adhere to your underwear to absorb blood and are discarded after usage. They come in different forms and absorbency levels (the amount of blood they can soak up). Never flush pads down the toilet; instead, roll them up in some toilet paper and place them in a sanitary bin near the toilet.
Pros: Pads are simple to use and are readily available at most supermarkets and pharmacies, as well as most dairies and other convenience stores.
Cons: As convenient as pads are, they are not environmentally friendly because they are single-use goods discarded after a few hours of use.
REUSABLE PADS
These are washable and reusable cotton pads. They are often made of an absorbent fabric such as cotton or bamboo and feature snap buttons on the wings to secure them around your underpants. After using the pad, it is recommended that you rinse it, soak it overnight, and then wash it.
Pros: Similar to disposable pads, these are simple to use. They are also considerably more environmentally friendly, as they can be washed and reused.
Cons: They require some effort since they must be rinsed, soaked, washed, and dried between uses. While the initial purchase may appear high, they are reusable means that you will save money in the long term.
TAMPONS
These are cotton pieces with a string attached to one end. You insert them into your vagina to absorb your blood and then remove them with the string. It would help if you changed tampons every 4-6hours, or as needed. You can select from a variety of sizes, depending on the severity of your period.
Pros: Compact and easy to conceal in a backpack or pocket. When used properly, you will be unaware that you are wearing a tampon, making them quite pleasant and convenient. You can swim while wearing a tampon, which is not always possible with other period products.
Cons: When tampons are used, minor risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS) exists. TSS is an uncommon bacterial illness that can result in organ damage. To reduce your risk, always wash your hands before handling and inserting a tampon, use the least absorbent tampon possible for your flow, replace your tampon at least every 8 hours, and always remove the tampon before sleeping.
MENSTRUAL CUPS
These are little, soft silicone or rubber cups inserted into the vagina to collect blood flow. It would assist if you emptied the cup every 8-12 hours, rinsed it under running water, and then re-insert it.
Pros: When properly placed, cups should feel secure and not leak or spill, making them safe for use while exercising, including swimming. They are also significantly more environmentally friendly, as they let you considerably reduce the number of menstruation products you use.
Cons: They might be messy and challenging to insert at first, but with time, they become easier. If you have an aversion or antipathy to blood, this device may not be for you, as it requires washing after each usage.
PERIOD UNDERWEAR
These have the appearance and feel of conventional underwear but are extremely absorbent. You can use them in place of pads or tampons if your flow is light or as a backup if your flow is weighty.
Pros: Extremely convenient, as period underwear feels and fits identically to regular underwear. They are also an environmentally beneficial solution, as they can be washed and reused.
Cons: Because you must build a collection to ensure you have enough to last you through your period day and night, the initial investment may seem high. If you have especially heavy periods, you may need to pair your period underwear with a tampon on your heaviest days to avoid leaks.
SOFT TAMPONS
Tampons made of soft material are an alternative to standard tampons. They are not strung.
Advantages: Stringless. Interfere not with intercourse.
Cons: Because they lack strings, they may be difficult to remove.