Discover Your Perfect Period Product: A Comprehensive Guide!
Choosing the right menstrual product can significantly impact comfort, health and the environment. With various options available, it’s essential to understand the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision. There’s so many options out there, it can become very overwhelming. Here, we’ll explore different types of menstrual products to help decide what’s best for you.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links (marked with an *), meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.
mainstream Tampons
Commercial mainstream disposable tampons are made from rayon, cotton or a blend of both. They often contain added fragrances and chemicals for absorbency and odour control.
Pros:
Convenient and widely available.
Discreet and easy to use.
Compact.
Absorbent.
Cons:
Potential exposure to chemicals and synthetic materials. Our vaginas are incredibly absorbent and so chemicals placed in there can be easily absorbed into our bodies.
Risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
Environmental impact due to plastic applicators and packaging.
Can increase menstrual flow.
Blocks downward chi/qi/energy.
Organic/Chemical-Free Tampons
These tampons are made from 100% organic cotton and are free from synthetic materials, fragrances and chemicals.
Pros:
Lower risk of chemical exposure.
Biodegradable and more environmentally friendly.
Reduced risk of TSS compared to commercial tampons.
Cons:
Typically more expensive than commercial tampons.
May be less absorbent than their synthetic counterparts.
Blocks downward chi/qi/energy.
MAINSTREAM DISPOSABLE Pads
Disposable pads made from a combination of synthetic materials, super-absorbent polymers and sometimes fragrances.
Pros:
Easy to use and widely available.
Various sizes and absorbencies to suit different flow levels.
Absorbent.
Cons:
Potential for skin irritation from synthetic materials and chemicals.
Non-biodegradable, contributing to landfill waste.
Can increase menstrual flow.
Organic/Chemical-Free Pads
These pads are made from natural materials like organic cotton and are free from synthetic chemicals and fragrances.
Pros:
Reduced risk of skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Biodegradable and more environmentally friendly.
Cons:
Generally more expensive than commercial pads.
May need to be changed more frequently due to lower absorbency.
Reusable Pads
Reusable pads are made from cloth materials like cotton, bamboo, microfibre or hemp. They can be washed and reused for years.
Pros:
Cost-effective in the long run.
Eco-friendly as they reduce landfill waste.
Available in various sizes and absorbencies.
Simple to wash.
Cons:
Initial cost can be higher.
Requires washing and drying, which may not be convenient for everyone.
Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are flexible, bell-shaped devices made from medical-grade silicone, latex or rubber that are inserted into the vagina to collect the menstrual blood.
Recommended: Mooncup*
Pro:
Reusable and cost-effective over time.
Hold more fluid than tampons or pads, allowing for longer wear time.
Environmentally friendly.
Free from chemicals, dyes, and fragrances commonly found in tampons and pads, reducing the risk of irritation and allergic reactions.
Carry a lower risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS) compared to tampons.
Unlike tampons, menstrual cups do not absorb moisture, which helps maintain natural vaginal lubrication.
Ideal for active lifestyles, including sports and swimming.
Cons:
Learning curve for insertion and removal.
Requires regular cleaning and sterilisation.
Blocks downward chi/qi/energy.
Not always readily available in all stores, although they can be purchased online.
Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as prolapse, may find menstrual cups unsuitable.
Menstrual Discs
Menstrual discs are flexible, flat discs made from medical-grade silicone or polymer that sit at the base of the cervix to collect the menstrual blood.
Pros:
Can be worn for up to 12 hours.
Reusable and cost-effective over time.
Environmentally friendly.
Suitable for people with a high cervix.
Cons:
Can be messy to remove and empty.
Learning curve for insertion and removal.
Not as widely available as other products.
Blocks downward chi/qi/energy.
Menstrual Sponges
Natural sea sponges that can be inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual blood.
Pros:
Natural and biodegradable.
Reusable and can be trimmed to fit.
Cons:
Requires regular cleaning and sterilisation.
Potential for bacterial growth if not properly maintained.
Not regulated, leading to variability in quality and safety.
Free Bleeding
The practice of intentionally menstruating without using any products to collect or absorb menstrual blood, such as tampons, pads, cups, discs or sponges. This approach embraces the natural flow of menstruation without interference.
Recommended: Squirt Blanket* from Yoni Pleasure Palace (Australia based - worldwide shipping), Free Bleed blanket (USA based - worldwide shipping)
Pros:
Economical option as no costs associated with purchasing menstrual products.
Eliminates waste and the environmental impact associated with manufacturing and disposing of menstrual products.
Some menstruators find it more comfortable not to use any products, avoiding potential irritation or allergic reactions.
Encourages greater awareness and acceptance of one's body and natural menstrual flow.
Cons:
May not be practical in all situations, especially in public or professional settings where menstrual blood could stain clothing or furniture.
Those with a heavier flow might find free bleeding more challenging to manage, as it could result in frequent changes of clothing and bedding.
Not be socially accepted in all communities or cultures.
The sensation of free bleeding may feel uncomfortable to some.
Period Underwear
Period underwear is specially designed with multiple layers of absorbent and leak-proof fabric to manage menstrual flow. They can be worn alone or as backup protection with other menstrual products. Period underwear is reusable, comfortable, and comes in various styles to suit different preferences. They provide a sustainable and hassle-free option for menstrual management.
Recommended: Cheeky Wipes period pants*, Moove period pants*
Pros
Period underwear is reusable.
Many brands use sustainable and ethically sourced materials.
Although the initial investment is higher, period underwear can save money over time as it eliminates the need for monthly purchases of disposable products.
Period underwear is typically made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials that can help reduce the risk of infections and discomfort.
Unlike pads, period underwear stays in place, providing reliable protection without the discomfort of shifting or bunching.
Depending on the absorbency level, period underwear can be worn for several hours or even all day, reducing the need for frequent changes.
Period underwear looks and feels like regular underwear.
Available in various styles to suit personal preferences and different outfits.
Can be used alone for lighter days or as a backup with other menstrual products for heavier days.
Cons
The cost of period underwear can be high initially.
Period underwear may not hold as much fluid as some other menstrual products.
Requires proper washing and drying to maintain absorbency and hygiene.
Some period underwear may require specific washing instructions, such as hand washing or avoiding fabric softeners, to preserve their effectiveness.
Finding the right fit and style that provides both comfort and adequate protection can take some trial and error.
Some period underwear can feel bulkier than regular underwear, especially if designed for heavier flows.
Not all stores carry period underwear, which may limit accessibility.
Bonus recommendations:
Save My Knickers* (award winning blood stain remover)
Your Remedy CBD oil* (helps with menstrual mood swings)
Pain-Free Periods Playbook (e-book)
Conclusion
Selecting the right menstrual product is a personal choice that depends on individual needs, preferences and lifestyle. Whether you prioritise convenience, cost, health, or environmental impact. Exploring different options can help you find the most comfortable and effective solution for your menstrual care.
Let’s break free from societal norms and create a world where menstruation is celebrated as a source of strength.
