From period underwear to menstrual cups, there are an array of eco-friendly products on the market today that could provide solutions tailored specifically to you. But which are best?
Finding products tailored specifically for your flow can be challenging, but Mayo Clinic gynecologist has some helpful suggestions: consider lifestyle, flow and sustainability preferences when making your selection.
1. Tampons
Tampons and pads are two of the most frequently utilized solutions to managing period blood. Also referred to as sanitary napkins, pads are rectangle-shaped pieces of absorbent material designed to adhere to your underwear and absorb menstrual flow. You should replace your pad every 4 to 6 hours depending on its absorbency level.
Tampons are small cylinders made from absorbent cotton, rayon or organic cotton with strings for removal. Available in various absorbencies to meet your flow needs and sometimes with or without applicators if you prefer not using one.
Before and after inserting tampons, always wash your hands thoroughly to reduce the chance of bacteria entering your vaginal area. Read and follow all instructions provided on the label; never flush a tampon down the toilet as this could result in toxic shock syndrome.
2. Pads
Pads (also referred to as sanitary napkins) are rectangles of absorbent material designed to attach directly to your pants in order to collect menstrual blood. Their size and thickness depend on how heavy your flow is; some even feature “wings” around their edges that help them remain secure without leakage issues.
No matter if you choose disposable or reusable pads, always ensure to wash your hands before and after changing them. Overtime, pads may cause yeast or fungal infections if not regularly changed; additionally they carry more risk for toxic shock syndrome than tampons.
Disposable pads are among the most widely used menstrual products worldwide, but reusable cloth pads can be just as convenient. You can purchase them through Etsy or other online sellers, and there are even patterns you can follow to create your own. Reusable pads tend to be more comfortable and less bulky than disposables but may limit some activities due to being water resistant.
3. Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are reusable period products designed to collect (rather than absorb) your blood, and may be worn up to 12 hours during menstruation. Constructed of medical-grade silicone or latex and designed to fit snugly inside the vagina, menstrual cups help form an airtight seal to stay put inside your body and remain in its place.
Menstrual cups come in various sizes, and newcomers might benefit from starting with one of the smaller cups. Unlike tampons, menstrual cups do not contain cotton or other absorbent materials that may cause irritation and leave residue behind on your skin, and they do not expose your blood to air, reducing both odor and dryness.
When it’s time to change your menstrual cup, simply empty and rinse its contents into the toilet while washing out with warm water or mild soap and following package directions to re-insert your cup. They provide an effective alternative to pads and tampons, particularly those who prefer more natural options or who experience heavy flow.
4. Underwear
Underwear is an indispensable staple of daily life that serves to protect against dirt, keep clothing looking their best, reduce skin chafing and provide a barrier between outside fluids such as vaginal discharge and sweat accumulating beneath them. Furthermore, underwear helps shield genitalia against the bacteria that cause yeast infections (yuck!).
Underwear made of breathable fabrics like cotton can help support vaginal health and help minimize odor. Wearing fresh underwear daily may also decrease the likelihood of infection; laundering with mild detergent regularly and not rewearing can help decrease irritation and discomfort.
Underwear should also be washed regularly if you work in a profession where bodily fluids such as blood or vomit may come into contact with it, such as nurses and doctors. When doing laundry, make sure to separate out underwear with any stains or smears from other clothes as dirty underwear provides the ideal breeding ground for bacteria that could lead to irritation, infections or itching if left alone for too long.
