Choosing the menstrual product that’s right for you
Introduction
Did you know that 5000 years ago, ancient Egyptians used softened papyrus, a material made from the stems of water plants, to absorb their menstrual flow? Fortunately, nowadays we have access to a wide range of period products like pads, tampons, menstrual cups, even period underwear! Finding the product that works best for you when surrounded by so many options can be overwhelming, which is why we dedicated this page to explaining each product (well not every product, as much as we would love to talk about all the niche products out there—we chose to focus this article on the more universally popular products). Remember that a product that works well for someone else–a friend, parent, or aunt–might not always be the right choice for you. It all comes down to what works best for your body.
Getting to know the options
Pads
Absorbent strips that stick to the inside of your underwear (a little like a narrow diaper!), and absorb blood when it exits your vagina. Pads can be anywhere from 6 to 14 inches in length, depending on whether they are designed for day or night usage and 2 to 3 inches across.
Wear length: 4-8 hours
Average cost per pad: $0.20-$1.00
Material: typically bleached rayon (cellulose made from wood pulp), cotton, and plastics
Internal or external: external
Recommended pad brands: U by Kotex (pads designed for teenage bodies!)
| Pros | Cons |
| Perfect for your first period because they’re simple and easy to use! Relatively inexpensive Mainstream and easy to find at stores | Can’t use while swimming Some pad options are bulkier and show through tighter clothing |
Tampons
Absorbent cylinders that can be inserted into your vagina and absorb the blood before it exits your body. Tampons typically have a string attached to the bottom end (nearest your underwear when inserted) that can be pulled to remove the tampon. While the idea of tampons might be daunting at first–know that there is no pressure to use them, especially if it’s something you don’t feel comfortable with; however, tampons can be a great option for many womxn too, it all depends on personal preference!
Wear length: 4-8 hours
Average cost per tampon: ~$0.20
Material: typically cotton and rayon
Internal or external: internal
| Pros | Cons |
| Can be worn while swimming or in water Won’t show through tighter clothing (unlike some pad options) Mainstream and easy to find at stores | Risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (a bacterial infection that can result from wearing a tampon for longer than its intended usage) Can be difficult to use for the first time |
Menstrual Cups
Flexible cups that sit a few inches below your cervix (in your vagina) and catch menstrual blood before it exits your body. While less commonly used–menstrual cups can be a more sustainable option as they are washed and reused. It’s important when choosing a menstrual cup to get one that’s right for you–sizing can depend on your age, heaviness of flow, and genetics.
Wear length: 6-12 hours
Average cost per cup: $20-$40
Material: medical grade silicone
Internal or external: internal
| Pros | Cons |
| Can be worn while swimming or in water Won’t show through tighter clothing (unlike some pad options) Cheaper in the long run Sustainable option | Can be difficult to use for the first time Expensive in the short term |
Period Underwear
Everyday underwear with a sewn-in pad. After use the underwear can be thrown in the wash and reused: it’s as simple as that! For many, period underwear is the most comfortable option as it mimics normal everyday underwear—but as with anything, everyone has different opinions on what works best for their body!
Wear length: 8-12 hours
Average cost per underwear: $15-$30
Material: typically microfiber polyester
Internal or external: external
| Pros | Cons |
| Sustainable option Can be more comfortable or “hassle” free than other alternatives Comes in both overnight and daytime varieties | Can’t be worn while swimming or in waterMore expensive |
Conclusion
Choosing the right period product for you might seem like a big choice–but remember that you don’t have to figure it all out right away. Take your time–try out different options–and find what works best for your body. Remember that you are surrounded by a whole network of womxn and girls who are going through the same thing–so don’t be afraid to ask for help! And as always, if you have any questions please feel free to reach out (even anonymously) to our email at theredpoppyinitiative@gmail.com.
Citations:
https://onlinenursing.duq.edu/master-science-nursing/the-ultimate-guide-to-feminine-hygiene/
The Red Poppy Initiative 
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