Most women with uteruses will experience Aunt Flow at some point during their reproductive lives, and while there are various options available to them when it comes to period care products, pads, tampons and reusable menstrual cups tend to be popular choices.
Pads (also called sanitary towels) are narrow strips designed to stick securely against your underwear and absorb menstrual blood. You should replace them every 4-8 hours depending on your flow rate.
Pads
Pads (commonly referred to as sanitary napkins) are external menstrual products designed to provide protection during periods. Available in an array of sizes and absorbencies to accommodate different flow levels, comfort preferences, and cycle lengths – they’re ideal for protecting both you and the underwear!
Pads are simple to use and present a low risk for Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), making them a popular option among girls and women alike. Furthermore, eco-friendly versions that reduce waste by replacing disposable with reusable options that can be washed between uses also remain available to consumers.
No matter which option you select – traditional pads or eco-friendly alternatives – it is essential that you read labels and pay close attention to ingredients used during manufacturing. Traditional pads often contain chemicals like dioxins and chlorine which may cause rashes and other menstrual symptoms; organic alternatives with no chemicals could reduce such risks.
Tampons
Tampons are small flexible cylinders used to absorb menstrual blood before it leaves the body during menstruation. Available in various sizes or absorbencies to match your flow intensity, these tampons feature an attached string which can be pulled for removal. Most come with an applicator wraparound them which makes insertion easier; however those looking for less plastic or cardboard use may opt for non-applicated options instead. It’s important to wash hands prior to and after inserting any tampon as poorly placed ones can cause irritation or even leakage of its contents into its contents causing leakage or worse tampon leakage of leakage of its contents onto surfaces resulting in leakage from its internal construction resulting in leakage from within its core material tampon.
Tampons offer many advantages for on-the-go protection, including their small size that enables them to fit easily in your purse or wallet for instantaneous protection. Plus, their discreet nature allows women to participate in more intense daily activities like sports or swimming safely and privately. Many women find that using both pads and tampons together works best, with adjustments made based on activity level and flow intensity.
Cups
Menstrual cups are flexible rubber or silicone funnel-shaped devices designed to collect period blood. Menstrual cups have been proven to reduce leaks and offer better coverage than pads; in addition, they may decrease the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS).
Cups, like tampons, come in various absorbencies; however, superabsorbent tampons have been linked with TSS (Transient Syphilis Syndrome) infection – though any prolonged wear increases your risk. TSS is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening bacterial infection.
Menstrual cups take some getting used to, but once you get used to using one they may prove more comfortable than tampons. Plus they are reusable and easily cleaned by simply rinsing or boiling!
Underwear
Underwear may seem like an insignificant component of our wardrobes, but it plays an integral role in how we feel. According to Dr. Erica Newlin of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Specialist Services in Denver Colorado, “underwear creates a barrier between your skin and clothes that prevent rubbing and irritation”, providing relief against rubbing or irritation caused by clothing. Furthermore, underwear absorbs vaginal discharge without leaving marks behind such as chafing or staining pants!
Cotton underwear is ideal for helping reduce yeast infections that cause itching and discomfort down there, helping you avoid itchy discomfort caused by them. Choose between briefs, boxer briefs, thongs, lacey bralettes or anything in-between!
Choose soft, comfortable fabric that feels like second skin, such as Shinesty’s signature Micro-Modal Air fabric which is more breathable and moisture wicking than classic Micro-Modal. Use detergent specifically formulated for sensitive skin to clean it frequently to minimize bacteria accumulation.
