Many women rely on menstrual hygiene products such as tampons, pads and menstrual cups to manage their periods effectively.
Feminine hygiene products can be costly for those living in poverty and leave a considerable environmental footprint, but there are alternatives that may reduce both costs and environmental impact.
Pads
Pads are worn externally to absorb menstrual flow. UNICEF procures disposable, fragrance-free pads with wings to prevent leakage and keep the pad in its proper place. Furthermore, UNICEF also provides disposal wrap or bags which seal pads safely for recycling in trash bins – flushing pads down toilets is best avoided as this could clog plumbing systems and potentially cause severe damage.
Pads come in different lengths and absorbencies to fit different needs, from short panty liners to overnight pads. It is important to switch pads out every four hours or as necessary in order to prevent bacteria growth and odor, but finding the ideal menstrual hygiene product might take some trial-and-error; take into consideration your comfort, flow level and lifestyle factors when searching.
Tampons
Tampons are menstrual products used to absorb blood from the vagina during menstruation. Usually fabricated out of rayon or cotton fabric compressed into cylindrical shape, they can also be constructed out of wool cloth and natural sponge material.
Tampons come in various sizes or absorbency strengths that can be chosen depending on a woman’s menstrual flow. Light, regular and super absorbencies are popular choices; using more absorbency than necessary could increase dryness and irritation risk.
Most tampons feature plastic or cardboard applicators to aid with easy insertion. Once worn, an attached string remains outside the body when not being worn; when it’s time for changing or removal of one of your tampons, simply pulling gently on its string will release it from your body and allow you to pull it off easily.
Pantyliners
Menstrual cups are flexible bell-shaped products made from medical-grade silicone, rubber or latex that when inserted create a seal to collect menstrual flow without absorbing it into your vagina. Once worn and in use they can be washed and reused many times over. Menstrual cups offer an alternative for people who do not enjoy using disposable pads and tampons under their clothing – offering protection without disposability worries.
Liners can help protect against leaks, daily sweat and odor discharge, or as tampon back-up for lighter days or spotting. Each liner comes individually packaged and in multiple absorbencies to meet your individual needs.
As it’s essential that we all find what works for ourselves, AWHS strives to increase knowledge about periods, reduce stigmatism and help end period poverty with your help.
Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are silicone or rubber cups designed to capture menstrual blood instead of absorbing it like tampons and pads do, creating an airtight seal against leakage and odor while saving money and time on replacement costs.
Menstrual cups come in both reusable and disposable forms. If you opt for a reusable one, make sure you read and follow its instructions closely; if inserting one proves difficult, add a thin coat of water-based lube around its rim before trying again.
Once finished using your menstrual cup, empty it into the sink or toilet and clean with boiling water or another cleaner designed for this product. You should sanitize and disinfect after every use using either bleach-based cleaners or commercial solutions designed specifically to sanitize menstrual cups.
Menstrual Discs
Menstrual discs (sometimes referred to as menstrual rings) offer another viable solution when it comes to period protection. These circular devices sit beneath the cervix and collect period fluid without cramping like other forms of period protection might do; unlike tampons that often cause cramps.
Menstrual discs typically hold five to six teaspoons of liquid, about four times that of a super tampon. Furthermore, these reusable options like Nixit’s are made to last with medical grade silicone that ensures their long lifespan.
Most women can insert and remove menstrual discs without issue, although some may experience discomfort when doing so. To reduce irritation, always use clean hands during insertion and removal, inspect it regularly for tears and cracks, and replace when necessary. Wearing one also can help prevent leakage during sex and exercise sessions.
