Contributed by – Harleen kaur
Introduction
When it comes to managing menstrual flow, there are several options available to choose from, including menstrual cups, tampons, and pads. Each of these options has its advantages and disadvantages, and what works best for a woman may not work well for another.
Menstrual cups are becoming an increasingly popular option due to their eco-friendliness and the fact that they can be reused for years. They are made of medical-grade silicone or latex and are inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood.
Tampons, on the other hand, are made of absorbent material and are inserted into the vagina to soak up menstrual blood. They come in different sizes and absorbencies to suit different flow levels.
Pads are another option, and they are worn outside the body to collect menstrual blood as it flows out. They come in different sizes and absorbencies as well.
It’s important to try out different options to see which one works best for you and your lifestyle. In this blog, we will explore each of these options in more detail to help you make an informed decision.
Tampons
A tampon is a feminine hygiene product designed to absorb menstrual blood from the vagina during menstruation. Tampons are typically made of soft, absorbent materials, such as cotton or rayon, and are inserted into the vaginal canal using a plastic or cardboard applicator, or by using the fingers.
Pros:
- Comfort: Tampons are discreet, and lightweight, and can provide more comfort than bulky pads during physical activities or exercise.
- Lower risk of leaks: Tampons can be more effective at preventing leaks than pads, especially when fitted properly and changed frequently.
- Better hygiene: Tampons can reduce the risk of odour and bacterial growth, as they absorb menstrual blood before it leaves the body.
Cons:
- Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS): TSS is a rare but serious bacterial infection that can be associated with tampon use, particularly if tampons are left in for too long or if higher absorbency tampons are used.
- Cost: Tampons can be more expensive than pads, particularly for higher absorbency options.
- Environmental impact: Tampons are often made from synthetic materials and can create a significant amount of waste.
Menstrual cup
A menstrual cup is a reusable alternative to traditional disposable menstrual products such as pads and tampons. It is a small, flexible cup made of medical-grade silicone or rubber that is inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood.
Here are some pros and cons of using a menstrual cup:
Pros:
- Environmentally friendly: Menstrual cups are reusable and can last for several years, which makes them an eco-friendly option that reduces waste.
- Cost-effective: While the initial cost of a menstrual cup may be higher than disposable products, it can save money in the long run as they can be reused for several years.
- Comfortable: Once inserted properly, menstrual cups are comfortable to wear and can be worn for up to 12 hours without needing to be emptied.
- Reduced risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS): Menstrual cups do not increase the risk of TSS, a rare but serious bacterial infection that can be associated with tampon use.
Cons:
- Learning curve: It can take some time to get used to inserting and removing the menstrual cup properly.
- Not suitable for all: Some women may find menstrual cups uncomfortable or difficult to use, and they may not be suitable for women with certain medical conditions.
- Size: There are different sizes and shapes of menstrual cups available, and finding the right fit can take some trial and error.
Sanitary pads
Sanitary pads, also known as menstrual pads or simple pads, are absorbent materials to manage the menstrual flow. These pads are typically made of a soft, absorbent material, such as cotton or wood pulp, and are designed to be attached to underwear.
Pros:
- Pads are widely available and can be found in most drugstores and supermarkets.
- They come in different sizes and absorbencies, so it’s easy to find one that suits your needs.
- Pads are easy to use, and there’s no risk of TSS (toxic shock syndrome) as there is with tampons.
- Pads are less likely to cause vaginal dryness or irritation than tampons or menstrual cups.
- Pads are suitable for people who are new to menstruation.
Cons:
- Pads can feel bulky and uncomfortable, especially if you need to wear them for a long time.
- They can shift around and become misaligned, leading to leaks and stains.
- Pads can be visible through tight-fitting clothing, which some people may find embarrassing.
- They generate a lot of waste, as most pads are disposable and need to be thrown away after each use.
- Pads can be expensive over time, especially if you need to change them frequently.
Final thoughts
Ultimately, the choice between menstrual cups, tampons, and pads comes down to personal preference. While each option has its own benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider.
For example, some people may find tampons uncomfortable or difficult to insert, while others may find pads bulky and inconvenient. Menstrual cups can also take some time to get used to, and some people may find them difficult to insert or remove.
While each option has its own merits and demerits, you may want to explore different options and find what works best for your body and your lifestyle.
