Menstruation care has undergone different stages of metamorphosis, from the times rags and cloths were used to today’s innovative menstrual cups and period innerwear. This article takes a look at the main categories of menstrual products in the market Disposable pads The most commonly used period product, most parents introduce it to teens when they begin their period care journey. Preferred in regions where insertion products are discouraged, it’s placed inside the underwear with the adhesive side down, such that it absorbs the menstrual flow externally. Cost-effective but not so eco-friendly, as it's generally made with low-grade synthetics - even more so in fragranced pads. It needs changing every 4-6 hours as prolonged use can cause skin irritations, rashes, or infections. As there is more open conversation happening around menstruation, many people are moving towards reusable and safer period products, which we will discuss later in this article. Panty liners Used as a supplement in addition to pads or tampons, mainly used for spotting or during mild flows for pre-period or end of the cycle Tampons Small cotton cylinders with catheters on one end are inserted into the vagina from the other to absorb the blood. Generally used in countries with higher levels of period care acceptance, but less so in conservative cultures due to myths surrounding virginity and discomfort with insertion. Poses risk of exposure to harmful synthetics in sensitive areas, resulting in infections and in some serious cases, like Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). Using the least absorbent version of Tampons is generally considered safer, albeit you need to change them often. Menstrual cups A flexible silicone rubber cup folded and inserted into the vagina which forms a seal and collects the blood. It needs to be emptied every 7-10 hours of use, and every use requires thorough sterilized cleaning. An eco-friendly option needing extra care, as repeated insertion/removal causes abrasions inside the vaginal wall. Common misconceptions about loss of virginity exist for both tampons and menstrual cups. Menstrual discs A less invasive version of cups, menstrual discs are flexible discs that sit at the base of the cervix, collecting blood. It is considered easier to use than menstrual cups, but cleaning/handling can be messy. Like cups, thorough sterilized cleaning is essential. Period underwear Specially designed inner-wear with built-in absorbent layers to soak up menstrual blood. Generally a premium product, it’s a discreet and reusable alternative which focuses on comfort and lowers the risk of any infection as compared to others. A reusable product can transform into considerable savings over the years. They are also an alternative to damp underwear and help deal with mild continence and swampy ass. With more choices and awareness than ever before, period care is no longer a single-option market, but is a preference-driven market focusing on comfort, sustainability, and safety.
