Choosing the Right Menstrual Products

Menstruation is a natural part of life, yet many young girls feel overwhelmed and confused when selecting their first menstrual product. With so many options available like pads, tampons, menstrual cups, period underwear, and discs, choosing the right one can seem daunting.

As a menstrual health expert, I believe that education and informed choices empower young menstruators to manage their periods with confidence and ease. Parents play a vital role in guiding their children through this journey, ensuring they select a product that suits their comfort, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

In this article, I’ll explain the different types of menstrual products, discuss factors to consider when choosing one, and provide practical tips for parents to help their children navigate their first period with confidence.

Best For: Beginners, light to heavy flow, overnight use

Pads are one of the most commonly used menstrual products. They come in various sizes and thicknesses to accommodate different flow levels. Some have wings for extra protection against leaks.

Pros

• Easy to use, especially for first-time menstruators

• No risk of insertion-related discomfort

• Available in disposable and reusable (cloth) options

Cons

• Can feel bulky or uncomfortable

• May cause rashes or irritation if not changed regularly

• Not ideal for swimming or high-intensity sports

Tip for Parents: If your child is new to periods, start with pads to help them get used to managing their menstrual flow.

Best For: Active individuals, swimming, moderate to heavy flow

Tampons are small, absorbent cylinders inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual blood. They come with or without applicators and in different absorbency levels (light, regular, super).

Pros

• Discreet and comfortable once inserted properly

• Allows for activities like swimming and sports

• Less risk of leaks compared to pads

Cons

• Requires proper insertion, which may feel uncomfortable for beginners

• Needs to be changed every 4-8 hours to prevent Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)

• May not be the best option for those who are uncomfortable with vaginal insertion

Tip for Parents: If your child wants to try tampons, teach them proper insertion techniques and emphasize the importance of changing them regularly.

Best For: Eco-conscious users, heavy flow, long wear time

Menstrual cups are flexible, medical-grade silicone or rubber cups inserted into the vagina to collect rather than absorb menstrual blood. They can be worn for up to 12 hours before needing to be emptied and cleaned.

Pros

• Cost-effective and reusable (lasts 5-10 years)

• Holds more fluid than tampons or pads, making it ideal for heavy flow

• Environmentally friendly

Cons

• Requires practice for proper insertion and removal

• May feel uncomfortable for first-time users

• Needs to be sterilised between cycles

Tip for Parents: If your child is open to trying a menstrual cup, help them research the right size and practice insertion techniques with patience.

Best For: Beginners, overnight protection, light to moderate flow

Period underwear looks like regular underwear but has built-in absorbent layers to soak up menstrual blood. It can be worn alone or as a backup with other menstrual products.

Pros

• Comfortable and hassle-free

• Reusable and eco-friendly

• Great for overnight protection

Cons

• May not be absorbent enough for heavy flow

• Requires washing after each use

• Higher initial cost compared to disposable options

Tip for Parents: Period underwear is a great starting option for kids who feel uncomfortable using pads or tampons.

Best For: Heavy flow, comfortable long wear, intimate activities

Menstrual discs are flexible, disc-shaped devices placed at the vaginal fornix (deeper than menstrual cups) to collect period blood. They offer leak-proof protection for up to 12 hours.

Pros

• Can hold more fluid than tampons and pads

• Comfortable for those who prefer internal protection

• Safe to use during intimacy (unlike tampons and cups)

Cons

• Requires more effort for insertion and removal

• Not widely available compared to other menstrual products

• May be messy during removal

Tip for Parents: If your child is considering a menstrual disc, let them explore their comfort level and make an informed choice.

Selecting the best menstrual product depends on several factors:

1. Comfort Level: Some individuals prefer external protection (pads, period underwear), while others may be comfortable with internal options (tampons, cups, discs).

2. Flow Type: Light flow may require thinner pads or light-absorbency tampons, while heavy flow may need super-absorbency tampons, cups, or period underwear.

3. Lifestyle & Activity Level: Active individuals may prefer tampons or menstrual cups, while those who prefer simplicity may opt for pads or period underwear.

4. Eco-Friendliness: If sustainability is a priority, reusable options like menstrual cups and period underwear are great choices.

5. Health & Hygiene: Some individuals may have sensitivities to certain materials in pads and tampons, making organic or reusable options a better choice.

Tip for Parents: Encourage your child to experiment with different options and choose what feels most comfortable for them.

1. Start the Conversation Early – Talk about periods before they experience their first one.

2. Provide a Variety of Options – Let your child explore different products and see what works best for them.

3. Teach Proper Hygiene – Emphasize the importance of changing products regularly and washing reusable products properly.

4. Normalize the Experience – Encourage open discussions to remove stigma and ensure they feel comfortable asking questions.

5. Respect Their Choice – Let your child decide which product feels best for them instead of pushing a specific option.

Choosing the right menstrual product is a personal decision, and the best choice is the one that makes your child feel comfortable, confident, and supported. By providing accurate information, fostering open discussions, and respecting their choices, parents can help their children navigate their menstrual health without fear or confusion.

Periods should never feel like a burden, they are a natural part of life. Let’s work together to empower young menstruators to embrace their bodies with confidence and dignity!