Every period is unique, and understanding how yours works can help you plan and find the right products to contain and control your flow.
Let’s dive in!
External feminine hygiene products, such as pads and feminine hygiene underwear, refer to those worn outside the body. These products are typically easier to use and require less of a learning curve, making them great options for those just starting their period journey.
Sanitary Pads, or sanitary napkins, are absorbent items worn in your underwear during menstruation. The underside of the pad has a sticky adhesive that sticks to the underwear. Most sanitary pads have “wings” that fold over the edges of the underwear to help keep it in place and prevent leaks.
Pads are generally very easy to use, making them an excellent option for period beginners. Pads also make it easy to monitor your period flow and help you know when to change to a new pad because you can see (and feel) how they absorb over time. Your flow will dictate when it’s time to change your pad. Even if you have a lighter flow and it may not seem like you need a new sanitary pad, changing it every 3-4 hours is still best practice to prevent odor, irritation, and bacteria growth.
Pads come in many shapes and sizes. You may have to experiment with several types and brands of pads to find the size and absorbency that works best for you. Below are some different pad options:
While you may see many scented pads on the market, avoiding any feminine hygiene products with added perfumes or fragrances is best. These products have added chemicals that can irritate the vaginal and vulva skin. If you have sensitive skin or notice your skin reacting to pads, opting for an unscented, 100% cotton-based pad is your best option.
Are you just starting your period journey? Check out our comprehensive “My First Period Guide” here for all the information you need to become a period expert!
Reusable menstrual underwear are an eco-friendly alternative to disposable pads and tampons. They are designed to absorb menstrual flow and can be worn, washed, and reused like normal underwear. Menstrual underwear typically features multiple layers, including a moisture-wicking layer to keep you dry, an absorbent core to capture and hold menstrual fluid, and a leak-resistant outer layer.
The frequency of change varies depending on the type of menstrual underwear you wear and how heavy your flow is. On a light flow day, you may be able to wear your menstrual underwear for up to 12 hours. Heavier flow days may require a change every 4-6 hours. Overnight menstrual underwear are designed to be worn overnight. If used as a backup to tampons or menstrual cups, you may be able to wear your menstrual underwear all day. Ultimately, it's time to change your menstrual underwear if you feel damp or uncomfortable or notice leaks.
Just like pads, menstrual underwear comes in various styles and absorbencies. And just like regular underwear, they come in many different style types, allowing you to choose what is most comfortable for your body.
Some of the different styles of menstrual underwear include:
When cleaning your menstrual underwear, following the manufacturer’s instructions is best to ensure their longevity and absorbency. Generally speaking, you should clean your menstrual underwear by doing the following steps:
Learn about the different types of menstrual cycle problems that can affect a woman’s natural flow. Read our blog post!
Internal feminine hygiene products are inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual flow. While they may require a bit of practice, they offer advantages like being able to swim during your period.
Tampons are popular for their convenience and discreteness. Tampons are menstrual products that absorb blood when inserted into the vaginal canal. The absorbent material inside the tampon expands as it soaks up the fluid. Tampons are typically made with cotton, rayon, or a mix of both materials.
Learning to use tampons, like any new skill, may be tricky at first. The more you practice using tampons, the more familiar you'll become with your body and how to insert a tampon in the way that best works for you. However, tampons should not be painful. If you are uncomfortable wearing a tampon, try taking it out and inserting a new one. You may need to change the angle you are inserting the tampon.
Most tampons come with an applicator that can be thrown away once inserted. Tampons have a range of applicators, including:
Tampons have a string attached that remains on the outside of the body after insertion. When it’s time to remove and change your tampon, gently and firmly pulling on the string will allow it to slide out.
Dive into our informative blog post to learn about the four phases of the menstrual cycle. Read the blog post now!
The frequency of changing a tampon depends on your flow and the absorbency of the tampon. Generally, tampons should be changed every 4-6 hours for a light to moderate flow and every 2-4 hours for a heavy flow. Tampons can be worn overnight but should be changed right before bed and immediately after waking up. Even if your flow is light, it is not advised to wear a tampon for over 8 hours, as your risk of leaks and toxic shock syndrome (TSS) increases.
It may be inconvenient to change a tampon during your busy day. Still, it’s important to be consistent with changing to prevent bacteria growth and keep your body healthy during your period.
Tampons should only be worn when menstruating, and you should never use a tampon for spotting or discharge. Using a tampon outside of your period may lead to discomfort, infection, or Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). While tampons come in scented options, it is best to avoid them as some may find them irritating and can disrupt your pH balance.
Tampons generally come in three different absorbances. The lighter the absorbance, the smaller the tampon will be.
It’s best to always use the lowest absorbency rating possible during your period. You should choose a tampon that provides the right absorbency for your flow, not the one that will absorb for the most extended time. Selecting the best absorbency for your menstrual flow is essential because super absorbency tampons are most often linked to TSS. However, keeping any tampon in for longer than advised can also increase your risk of TSS.
Menstrual cups are a reusable period product designed to collect period blood when menstruating. They are flexible bell-shaped cups made from medical-grade silicone, rubber, latex, or elastomer. Menstrual cups offer an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to disposable pads and tampons.
Like tampons, menstrual cups are inserted inside the vagina. The cup creates a seal against the vaginal walls, preventing leaks and allowing the fluid to collect within the cup. Once full, the cup can be removed, emptied, washed, and reinserted.
Because they take a while to get used to and can be difficult to insert correctly, menstrual cups can be inconvenient to some. If you are starting your menstrual cup journey, carrying a tampon or pad as a backup is best. Although, once you get beyond the learning curve of using a menstrual cup, they are typically easy to insert and remove. Menstrual cups also have an added convenience: users can leave them in for a longer time in comparison to tampons.
The frequency of changing a menstrual cup depends on your flow and the capacity of the cup. Menstrual cups should be changed every 10-12 hours or if you’re experiencing any leaks, which may indicate the cup is full. You can wash and reinsert it once you empty it into the toilet.
Like all other period products, menstrual cups come in various shapes and sizes. Period cup brands typically come in two sizes: small and large. Some brands even have three to four sizes, including smaller teen options. Menstrual cups are not a one-size-fits-all product, and they may feel uncomfortable or leak unless you wear the correct size.
Take a look at our blog to learn five key yoga poses that can help ease painful menstrual cramps.
Maintaining proper menstrual hygiene is crucial for your health and comfort during your period. Follow these best practices to minimize bacteria, odors, and pH imbalances:
Check out our complete vaginal and vulva care guide here!
It's important to remember that everyone’s body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. The most important consideration is to find the best, most comfortable, and safest option for you!
Consider comfort, convenience, flow level, and lifestyle factors when choosing a feminine hygiene product. For example, you may prefer a menstrual cup during the start of your period when your flow is heaviest and pads near the end of the cycle when it lightens up. Or if you live an active lifestyle, you may find tampons work best for you. Sometimes, it takes trial and error to find the right product. Don't be discouraged if your first choice isn't perfect. You can always try something else or a combination of several period products.
Have questions or concerns about your body and periods?
The providers at Moreland OB-GYN are here to help as your trusted resource and partner in reproductive health. Schedule an appointment today to discuss any concerns or questions about your period or health.