Period Products 101

Period Products 101

There are many different types of products you can use to manage your menstrual bleeding and provide comfort for period symptoms.

Below are some of the most common products used to manage periods...

BY: VAGINAL HEALTH

UPDATED: 16/10/2023

Periods . Puberty

Sanitary Pads (Period Pads):

Tampons

• Description:

  • Sanitary pads, or period pads, are absorbent materials attached to an adhesive backing. They are designed to be placed inside underwear to absorb menstrual blood.

• Types:

  • Pads come in various sizes, thicknesses, and absorbency levels, including ultra-thin, regular, and overnight pads.

  • You can also find reusable pads that have thick absorbent materials and can be cleaned in the wash.

• Usage:

  • Pads are straightforward to use. Peel off the backing and press the pad onto the crotch of your underwear. They should be changed regularly to prevent leakage, typically every 4-6 hours.

• Advantages:

  • Pads are easy to find, comfortable, and suitable for people of all ages.

  • They can be disposable but also come in eco-friendly and reusable options!

• Description:

  • Tampons are soft cotton products that are inserted into the vagina to absrob period blood.

• Types:

  • Tampons come in different sizes and absorbency levels, including regular, super, and super plus.

• Usage:

  • To use a tampon, insert it into the vagina using an applicator or by using a finger. You will typically need to change a tampon every 4 - 6 hours.

• Advantages:

  • Tampons are discreet and can be worn while swimming or during physical activities. They are available with or without applicators.

Menstrual Cups

• Description:

  • Menstrual cups are flexible, bell-shaped cups made of silicone like materials. They are inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood.

• Types:

  • There are various brands and sizes of menstrual cups, catering to different body shapes and flow levels.

• Usage:

  • To use a menstrual cup, fold it and insert it into the vagina. The cup creates a seal to prevent leaks and can be worn for up to 12 hours. Empty the cup, rinse it, and reinsert as needed.

• Advantages:

  • Menstrual cups are reusable, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective over time. They can last for several years with proper care and cleaning.

FYI make sure to sterilise your cup in-between periods. It is fine to simply rinse your cup in-between insertions, however when not in use, the cup may sit and collect bacteria. To prevent infections it is recommended to sterilise your cup by letting it sit in a pan of boiling water for a few minutes.

Period Underwear

• Description:

  • Period underwear is specially designed underwear with built-in absorbent layers to manage menstrual flow.

• Types:

  • Period underwear comes in various styles, including briefs, bikini, and hipster, and is available in different absorbency levels.

• Usage:

  • Simply wear period underwear as you would regular underwear. Depending on the absorbency level, they can be used alone or as backup with other period products.

• Advantages: Period underwear is reusable, reducing waste. It is comfortable and can provide leak protection. They are available in eco-friendly options.