Women and girls need access to menstrual hygiene products in order to safely, hygienically and with dignity manage their periods. Without such products they would resort to using cloth, rags or toilet paper – which may cause infections or smell.
Tampons are used to absorb menstrual blood. If the flow is heavy, tampons should be changed more frequently and changed every few hours or more frequently than necessary.
Sanitary Pads/Napkins
Sanitary pads (sometimes known as menstrual towels or napkins) are rectangular-shaped pieces of absorbent material you can stick onto the inside of your underwear to contain period blood and keep it away from sensitive vaginal linings. With holes inside, sanitary pads allow period blood to drain into it instead of staining your delicate vagina lining directly.
Modern sanitary pads employ technology similar to that used in disposable diapers, using Super Absorbent Polymer (SAP) for absorbency and a nonwoven top sheet made of polyester or polypropylene that keeps skin dry; plus either plastic or paper-based back sheets as back sheets.
Pads are generally easy to use, and some girls opt for them because they believe that they’re healthier for their bodies than tampons. Unfortunately, however, some girls don’t enjoy how sanitary pads can become messy quickly, contributing further to landfill waste in America. Furthermore, they might fear toxic shock syndrome which has been associated with synthetic material pads with high absorbency capacity.
Tampons
Tampons are small cotton-like cylindrical sponges designed to absorb menstrual blood. As one of the most widely-used menstrual hygiene products, tampons provide discreet yet comfortable protection. Available with cardboard applicators to fit inside vagina openings or digital ones that require you to extend and push in (digital tampons), tampons offer discreet yet comfortable protection.
Size and shape of tampons vary; therefore it’s important to select one that fits well and comfortably for you. Always follow package instructions regarding proper insertion and removal so as to reduce leakage, irritation, and potential health risks such as toxic shock syndrome. Furthermore, change it every 4-8 hours for optimal safety measures and leak prevention.
Pads may provide greater comfort during active wear, yet can be more noticeable than tampons. Furthermore, pads often contain chemicals and dyes which could harm the environment if your focus lies elsewhere; organic unbleached pads or menstrual cups could be better options in these circumstances.
Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are reusable devices designed to collect menstrual fluid rather than absorb it during your period, which may cause less irritation and often more comfort than pads or tampons, which have the tendency of folding or sticking to vaginal walls. Furthermore, they’re often easier to insert and remove than their counterparts (1).
Most menstrual cups are composed of medical-grade silicone or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). One, called The Keeper Cup, however is made from natural gum rubber that contains latex; those who are allergic should stay away. (2)
Many women find that menstrual cups hold more blood than pads or tampons and need to be changed less frequently, saving money and decreasing waste from single-use products. Unfortunately, however, some individuals have difficulty inserting and finding an acceptable seal when using menstrual cups – something which may prove challenging in public restrooms; additionally they must also be thoroughly emptied and cleaned after every cycle, which requires considerable care (see tips below for assistance in doing this). (3)
Disposable Pads
Pads contain synthetic materials that are harmful for your health and the environment, not to mention they can cost more in the long run compared with reusable pads, which use less materials while being healthier for both body and skin.
Women and girls are increasingly turning to cloth menstrual products that can be machine-washed, including organic options that utilize plant-based fibers that won’t irritate the bottom like some plastic-based alternatives can. From panty liners to overnight pads with the option for absorbent inserts that can be added when necessary – cloth menstrual products offer convenient protection during menstruation!
As with tampons, reusable pads come in various colors and shapes; therefore it is essential to carefully read their label to find something suitable. Please be aware that due to FDA classification as medical devices, manufacturers are only encouraged but not required to provide full ingredient lists with these products.
