Feminine Hygiene Products
Sanitary Pads vs Tampons vs Menstrual Cups
Periods fall into a special category of those mandatory monthly guests we wish not to have, yet are always relieved when they say hello to us! They must be treated with proper respect, care and hygiene. Now how best to deal with them is the question!
Various types of feminine hygiene products are available in the market that make our lives easier- but what suits us, needs to be analysed.
Sanitary Napkins
Pros
- Available in different sizes (in shapes too) and absorbency levels
- Easy to use and change, comfortable to wear if put properly
- Very reliable and trusted
Cons
- Can’t be worn in water, and can cause rashes if worn for long hours
- Are non- reusable and are not environment- friendly
- Are not comfortable while playing sports and can shift from their position
How to use
Remove the plastic slip and stick the pad firmly in the underwear. Most pads these days have wings, which give more security and protection against leakage. Wear pads according to the level of your flow. For example: Cotton pads on less flow, and thin gel pads on heavy flow.
Tampons
Pros
- Portable and lightweight in use
- Gives a dry feeling and can be worn for swimming
- Tampons create no mess and are cleaner to remove
Cons
- Tampons can be difficult to insert and can cause discomfort
- Small in size, it requires you to change frequently to avoid leakage
- Like pads, tampons too are non-eco-friendly
How to use
If you are using tampons for the first time, squat down gently, open your vaginal folds and lightly push the tampon inside in a way that the string is on the bottom. The string should hang outside the vagina. Avoid taking scented tampons as they create an imbalance in the pH level of your vagina.
Menstrual Cups
Pros
- Made of silicone, cups do not cause any vaginal drying
- Easy on your budget, as the cups are reusable up to 5 years
- Do not leave behind any foul odour
Cons
- If you are on birth control devices like IUD, the use of cups is forbidden
- For young virgins, the insertion of the cup can cause pain and should be avoided
- You have to sterilize it after every use
How to use
Menstrual cups need to be folded and inserted inside the vagina. While removing, pinch the base of the cup to release the air. Do not try to pull and remove the menstrual cup as it might get uncomfortable. You have to sterile the menstrual cup before using each time. It can hold the maximum flow, up to 6 hrs.
Each woman is different; therefore, it’s impractical to pick the best one for all. So, go ahead, and try out these options and discover what’s best for your health. Remember to wash your hands before and after using any menstrual products.
