Pads
Pads are most common in the disposable variety, but reusable ones are also an option. Reusable pads have wings with Velcro or buttons instead of the adhesive on the wings of a disposable pad. When using a disposable or a reusable one it is recommended to change the pad every 4-6 hours or when the pad has a heavy amount of blood within it. With a disposable pad, unstick it from your underwear, roll it up in toilet paper, and dispose of it in the trash can. For a reusable pad it is recommended to put it into a waterproof bag so it can be washed when you return home.​
Many people use this as their first period product. They come in many different sizes and absorbency levels. These range from panty liners for spotting, all the way to overnight/max/super pads depending on the brand. On pads you can also choose if you want wings on them or not. The wings are two side flaps that wrap around the side/crotch area of the underwear. They help keep the pad in place when active and moving.
Tampons
Another form of period product is a tampon. These are an internal period product and are most used with active people who find pads restrictive. They are also used when going swimming, to a water park, or somewhere you are unable to wear a pad. The tampon is inserted into the vagina with the provided applicator, is pushed through the applicator, and leave the string outside the vagina. When removing the tampon pull the string and wrap it in toilet paper to throw away in the trash. A tampon should not be used for more than 8 hours at a time. There are reusable, and refillable applicators that may be bought if you prefer those as well. Tampons are available in a variety of sizes, absorbent materials, and absorbency levels.
Menstrual Cups
These are reusable cups that look like a funnel in shape and is made of silicone that is “medical-grade”. The cup is inserted like a tampon and collects blood inside of the dip of the cup. The cup can be worn up to 12 hours depending on how heavy the person’s flow is. The cup must be cleaned and stored a specific way depending on which kind you purchase. People prefer these because it holds more fluid than a tampon and is reusable. There are some disposable cups available on the market, but most are reusable. To insert the cup, it is either folded or put in an applicator. It is than inserted in the vagina and opens like a cup inside the cervix, holding place with suction.
Menstrual Disks
This product is inserted into the vagina but is placed further up and closer to the cervix compared to a cup or tampon. It is made of “medical-grade” silicone and is recommended for 12 hours of use depending on the flow amount.
Period Underwear
The period underwear looks externally the same as other types of underwear. Different styles and fits depend on the brand you purchase. Within the underwear there are extra layers of materials that act like an internal section of pad in the underwear. It absorbs the blood and can be used with another product or by itself depending on the person’s flow. These can be bought in disposable and reusable varieties, and depending on the brand, can be worn up to 12 hours before being washed or disposed of.
Period Swimwear
This product is preferred for many people who want to swim while on their period but do not want to wear other products like a tampon or a period cup. They are designed much like period underwear and prevent leaks while swimming.
