Menstrual hygiene products may seem like basic necessities, yet many women and girls overlook them. These products help ensure women and girls remain clean, safe and confident as they go about their day-to-day lives.
Access to proper sanitation facilities and education about menstruation can prevent girls from missing school during their period, thus increasing attendance rates at schools. Supplying adequate supplies of menstrual hygiene products helps break the stigma surrounding menstruation while supporting overall health and wellbeing.
Pads
Pads are rectangular menstrual hygiene products designed to stick securely underwear. Available in various shapes, sizes and absorbencies – from short slender panty liners to overnight pads designed to manage heavy flow or postpartum bleeding – pads come in many varieties for your period-care needs.
Some pads feature wings to provide additional security when worn under undergarment. Most pads also display their absorbency level through color or word on their package; additionally, there may be wetness indicators to notify when its time to change it out.
Change them every 4-6 hours to prevent leaks and remain comfortable. Make sure to wrap used pads in toilet paper or dispose them via special disposal bags when disposing of them; never flush a pad down the toilet as this contains body fluids that could spread germs or cause infections; always wash your hands after handling one and before or after using another pad.
Tampons
Tampons are small cylindrical absorbent materials shaped into thin tubes which are placed into the vagina during periods to soak up menstrual blood. There are various absorbencies available, making tampons an excellent choice for light periods and those concerned about TSS risks; however they may cause discomfort for some users.
Most tampons feature an applicator – typically made of thin plastic or cardboard tube – for easier insertion and to ensure it does not slip inside. Some individuals, however, prefer non-applicator versions which may be easier and more eco-friendly.
Tampons pose a slight risk of toxic shock syndrome when left in for too long, so it is crucial that users follow packaging guidelines and change them regularly. To lower this risk, select one with low absorbency that matches your flow, with rounded tips to decrease chances of irritation, as well as using self-sealing disposal bags when throwing away used tampons containing bodily fluids that could pose harm.
Menstrual cups
Menstrual cups are small, flexible bell-shaped cups made of latex or silicone that women insert into their vagina during menstruation to collect menstrual fluid and store it away for collection during later use. Wearing one for up to 12 hours allows it to collect enough menstrual fluid before it needs to be removed and emptied; thereafter it should be rinsed clean using warm water and soap between uses and sterilized at least once each cycle with boiling water sterilization.
Some women report less leakage and infections when using menstrual cups; however, not all find them comfortable or effective. There can be a bit of a learning curve involved; it may take multiple tries before becoming comfortable using one.
Reusable menstrual cups can significantly lower environmental impact by replacing pads and tampons (a Huffington Post article estimates 9,120 used annually). Read and follow insertion and cleaning instructions carefully, trying different brands until finding one suitable to you; these reusable options typically cost $20-40 and last 10+ years.
Period underwear
Period underwear is designed to look and feel similar to regular underwear, yet incorporates absorbency for light or moderate flow. Ideal for those new to menstrual hygiene or who find inserting products into their bodies uncomfortable, period underwear provides additional layers of protection.
Most are made from cotton and feature a moisture barrier to help you feel dry throughout the day, with an additional layer of protection against leaks. Select one that fits comfortably without being too tight or loose; many brands are certified OEKO-TEX free of chemicals such as PFOS and PFOA.
Period underwear does not offer as much absorbency compared to pads and tampons, making them best used as an additional backup on heavy flow days and overnight. Furthermore, they require frequent washing and may cost more upfront; but have the added bonus of being low waste and reusable!
