Period products include tampons and pads that should be regularly changed (ideally every 4-6 hours) in order to prevent odor, irritation and bacterial growth.
Participants of our AWHS have reported using regular tampons, sanitary napkins or pads, panty liners and superabsorbent tampons as their most preferred menstrual hygiene products; some women use multiple items at once.
Pads
Pads are rectangles made of absorbent material that attach to your underwear to absorb menstrual blood and keep you comfortable during periods. Also referred to as sanitary pads or napkins, these disposable rectangles come in different sizes to meet every flow pattern and should always be stored in containers with lids that minimize odor while protecting it from curious children peering inside it. Some pads feature wings which fold over at their edges for extra security when folded over, while some even come equipped with built-in disposal flaps or wrappers which help seal closed used pads before throwing it out – you should select these when buying your next supply from an online source as they could even save yourself some flies from peering inside it!
Some girls prefer tampons, which feature plastic applicators that you insert directly into your vagina with your index finger. Tampons are less noticeable under clothing and can even be worn while swimming or doing sports – however, too long in can pose toxic shock syndrome (TSS), leading to irritation or infection; always follow label directions and replace your tampon every 4-6 hours to minimise risk of TSS.
Tampons
Tampons are discreet menstrual products designed to absorb blood during menstrual flow. Available in various absorbency levels (referred to as an absorbency), these tampons should be regularly changed in order to prevent leakage and toxic shock syndrome.
As opposed to pads, tampons can be applied either manually or using an applicator. To insert a tampon properly, first wash your hands and find an ideal position – be it squatting, sitting on the toilet with legs apart or standing up and straddling a chair – that best fits you. It is wise to read over any instructions on the box beforehand!
At first, tampon use may feel challenging and take practice to master. This is due to how they expand with blood and vaginal secretions being absorbed, taking time for women to learn how to insert correctly and follow directions exactly if one feels uncomfortable or painful – otherwise change immediately!
Menstrual cups
Menstrual cups are convenient, user-friendly period products that allow women to collect more blood without it leaking out, without any risks of leakage. With proper care they’re also reusable – with some lasting up to 10 years with use!
These products don’t leak or require frequent changes like pads and tampons do, saving both time and money. Plus they’re safe to wear while swimming or working out and even during sex! (2)
Menstrual cups don’t increase your risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare infection which occurs when Staphylococcus or Streptococcus bacteria enter deeper into your vagina. (2)
Menstrual cups require some practice before you can become proficient at using one. You must learn to insert and remove it correctly, which some women may find difficult or uncomfortable. Furthermore, those with an abnormal uterus or low cervix might find that their cup doesn’t fit them well enough (2).
Underwear
Menstrual underwear is a special kind of lingerie specifically created to manage periods. It covers women, including their hymen, and can be combined with pads or tampons to contain bleeding and prevent leaks.
At menstruation time, people frequently use both external feminine hygiene products like sanitary napkins or pads/tampons and internal menstrual cups/period underwear to stay clean and protect their vagina from leakage. A pantyliner may also be worn to offer extra backup protection from leaks during menstruation.
No matter how light your flow is, it is crucial that tampons or menstrual cups be changed regularly to protect yourself against toxic shock syndrome – an extremely rare but potentially life-threatening condition. Before and after handling new or used tampons/cups always wash hands thoroughly after handling and dispose of used ones correctly. When selecting absorbency for use be sure to choose the lowest absorbency necessary according to flow rates – always read labels.
