Period Products 101: A Breakdown of Pads, Tampons, Menstrual Cups, and More

Managing periods is easier than ever with a variety of menstrual products available today. From traditional pads to eco-friendly menstrual cups, each product has its pros and cons. This guide breaks down the most popular options to help you or your daughter make an informed choice.

What Are They?

Pads are absorbent products worn in underwear to soak up menstrual blood. They are the most widely used period product, especially among beginners.

Types of Pads

• Regular Pads – Suitable for moderate flow.

• Heavy Flow Pads – Designed for extra absorbency.

• Overnight Pads – Longer and more absorbent for nighttime protection.

• Panty Liners – Ultra-thin pads for light spotting or daily freshness.

• Organic Pads – Made from natural materials, free from chemicals.

• Reusable Cloth Pads – Washable and eco-friendly.

Pros

• Easy to use

• No insertion required

• Available in different absorbencies

Cons

• Can feel bulky or uncomfortable

• May cause irritation due to synthetic materials

• Not the most eco-friendly option (unless using cloth pads)

Best Brands

• Always (USA)

• Whisper (India & Global)

• Stayfree (Global)

• Natracare (Organic)

What Are They?

Tampons are small, absorbent plugs inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual blood. They come with or without applicators.

Types of Tampons

• Applicator Tampons – Easier to insert, with a plastic or cardboard applicator.

• Non-Applicator Tampons – Inserted using fingers.

• Organic Tampons – Free from chemicals and synthetic fibers.

Pros

• Provides freedom for sports and swimming

• Compact and discreet

• No bulky feeling like pads

Cons

• Requires insertion, which may be uncomfortable for beginners

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

• Not biodegradable unless using organic tampons

Best Brands

• Tampax (USA)

• Playtex (USA)

• o.b. (Global)

• Sirona (India, Organic)

What Are They?

Menstrual cups are reusable silicone or rubber cups inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood instead of absorbing it.

Types of Menstrual Cups

• Firm Cups – Best for active individuals.

• Soft Cups – Suitable for sensitive users.

• Collapsible Cups – Travel-friendly and compact.

Pros

• Lasts up to 12 hours before needing to be emptied

• Cost-effective (can last for years)

• Eco-friendly and reduces waste

Cons

• Requires practice for insertion and removal

• Not ideal for those uncomfortable with internal products

• Needs to be sterilised between cycles

Best Brands

• DivaCup (USA & Global)

• Saalt Cup (USA)

• Lena Cup (Global)

• Sirona Cup (India)

What Are They?

Period panties are absorbent underwear designed to replace or complement pads and tampons. They absorb menstrual blood without the need for additional products.

Types of Period Panties

• Light Absorbency – For spotting or backup protection.

• Medium Absorbency – Can replace pads/tampons on regular flow days.

• Heavy Absorbency – Suitable for overnight or heavy flow days.

Pros

• Comfortable and reusable

• No risk of leaks when worn correctly

• Great for overnight use

Cons

• Expensive upfront

• Requires washing after each use

Best Brands

• Thinx (USA & Global)

• Modibodi (Australia & Global)

• Adira (India)

What Are They?

Menstrual discs are flexible, disposable rings that sit at the vaginal fornix and collect blood, similar to menstrual cups.

Pros

• Can be worn for up to 12 hours

• Can be used during sex without mess

• Less risk of leaks compared to tampons

Cons

• Requires practice for insertion

• Not reusable unless using special disc brands

Best Brands

• Flex Disc (USA)

• Nixit (Reusable, Global)

• In Western countries, tampons and menstrual cups are widely accepted, and menstrual education begins early.

• In India, pads are the most common period product due to cultural taboos around internal options like tampons and cups. However, awareness is increasing, and eco-friendly alternatives are gaining popularity.

• Nadya Okamoto – Covers period activism and education.

• Put A Cup In It – Reviews all menstrual products.

• Period Nirvana – Detailed discussions on menstrual cups and sustainable options.

• Dr. Jolene Brighten – Hormonal health and menstrual education.

• Sarah Tran – Reviews various menstrual products.

Choosing the right period product depends on comfort, lifestyle, and personal preference. Whether you prefer the convenience of pads, the freedom of tampons, the sustainability of menstrual cups, or the innovation of period panties, there’s a product for everyone. Encourage open conversations about menstrual health so that everyone can make informed choices.