Menstrual Hygiene Products: A Comprehensive Guide

Menstrual hygiene products are essential for maintaining comfort, wellness, good health, and confidence throughout the menstrual cycle. As a result of technological improvements and increasing awareness, individuals today have access to a wide variety of options, ranging from conventional disposable pads and tampons to creative solutions such as menstruation cups, period underwear, and cloth pads that can be reused. Each menstrual/ period product presents distinct advantages and difficulties accommodating a range of lifestyles, preferences, likes, and dislikes, along with environmental sustainability objectives. Gaining insight into the advantages and disadvantages of these menstrual hygiene products and appropriate usage and hygiene practices enables individuals to make well-informed decisions regarding their menstrual health. ​

Menstrual hygiene products have evolved significantly over the years, offering women a range of choices to manage their periods effectively. This article provides a detailed look at the types of products available, their benefits, challenges, and tips for selecting the right one based on health and lifestyle considerations.

Common Types of Menstrual Hygiene Products

Sanitary Pads

The disposable pads/ sanitary napkins that are used for menstruation are among the most widely used products in this category. They are available in a wide range, based on the size, absorption levels, and designs, along with wings that are designed to prevent leakage.

The benefits include:

- It is simple to use, it is readily available, and it is appropriate for people of all ages, including those who are just beginning their menstrual cycle.
- They are easy to use since there is no requirement for placing anything into the vagina.

The drawbacks include:

- If used for an extended time or while the weather/temperature is hot, it has the potential to cause skin irritation.
- The presence of plastic components raises concerns regarding their ecological footprint. Among menstrual products, pads have the most significant environmental impact, as it is said to consist of approximately 90% plastic.
- Certain individuals consider them to be heavy and not very comfortable to use.
- The sanitary napkins can also shift, especially during sports or physical/exercise activities.
- Pads may also irritate the skin of the vulva/vaginal opening.

Usage Recommendations: For optimal hygiene and comfort, it is advisable to change the pads every 4 to 6 hours.

Tampons

Tampons, small, cylindrical products made from a material that absorbs, are inserted into the vagina to gather or absorb menstrual flow.

The benefits include:

The design is subtle and ideal for individuals with an active lifestyle, such as swimmers.

The drawbacks include:

- There is a potential risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS) if it is left inside for an extended period.
Toxic shock syndrome is an uncommon but serious complication that can arise from specific infections caused by bacteria. Factors that may increase the risk of TSS encompass skin wounds, surgical procedures, and the use of tampons along with other devices, including menstrual cups, diaphragms, and contraceptive sponges.
- Tampons are not environment friendly.

Usage Recommendations: Choose the lowest absorbency level required and replace it every four to six hours.

Menstrual Cups

Menstruation cups are reusable cups made from medical-grade silicone or rubber. It is designed to be inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual flow.

The benefits include:

- It is more cost-effective over time.
- It is more environmentally friendly.
- It can hold more flow/fluid than tampons and sanitary pads.
- It is suitable for wear for a duration of up to 12 hours.

The drawbacks include:

- Certain persons may find it difficult to insert or remove the cup.
- It is necessary to ensure that it is properly cleaned and sterilized.
- The use of a menstrual cup can effectively contribute to sustainability, as it has the potential to last for up to 10 years, thereby significantly minimizing waste.​

Period Underwear

It has been specifically developed to be an absorbent, serving as a replacement for or a complement to the existing menstrual products.

The benefits include:

- Comfort
- Ease of use
- Reusability
- A range of styles and adsorption options.

The drawbacks include:

- Frequent washing is necessary.
- It may not be adequate on days with a higher flow rate.
 

Reusable Cloth Pads

These are cloth/fabric pads that can be washed and reused for many years.

The benefits include:

- Being budget-friendly.
- Having a positive impact on the environment.

The drawbacks include:

- The need for washing regularly.
- Potentially lower absorbency compared to disposable options.
 

Discs

The menstrual discs are like Frisbees which are flexible. Discs, like menstrual cups, are more effective at collecting/absorbing blood than tampons and can remain in the vagina for up to 12 hours. There are reusable and disposable period discs that are available.

The benefits include:

- It is possible to engage in sexual activity while the menstrual disc is in place.
- Collects more blood than tampons.
- Can remain in the vagina for nearly twelve hours.

The drawbacks include:

- Can be challenging to position correctly.

Lifestyle and Level of Physical Activity

If you engage in physical activities or sports, you may find that tampons, menstrual cups, or period underwear are more appropriate options compared to pads.

Impact on the Environment

Reusable options like period underwear, menstrual cups, and cloth pads greatly minimize waste in comparison to disposable menstrual products, like pads and tampons.

Cost and Expense

While reusable products such as menstrual cups and period underwear may necessitate a greater initial investment, they prove to be more economical over time when compared to the ongoing monthly expenses of tampons or pads.

Health Concerns and Considerations

For those who are susceptible to infections or irritation, it is important to use unscented and chemical-free products. Menstrual cups cause lesser irritation when compared to other menstrual hygiene products. Menstrual cups are hypoallergenic and free from additives found in some tampons and pads​. ​

Menstrual Products: Hygiene and Safety Tips

Maintaining good menstrual hygiene is essential for preventing infections, minimizing odours, and ensuring comfort throughout your period. Sanitary pads, tampons, menstrual cups, discs, and period underwear are just a few of the many menstruation products available for you to use throughout your monthly cycle. Consider these suggestions when utilizing menstrual products, alongside the instructions provided with each item:

- Please ensure that used disposable menstrual products are disposed of correctly by wrapping them in toilet paper, tissue, or another suitable material before placing them in a trash bin.

- Please refrain from flushing menstrual products down the toilet.

- Sanitary pads: It is advisable to change sanitary pads every few hours, regardless of the flow's lightness. Consider changing them more often if your flow is heavy.

- Do not use toilet paper, tampons, or pads that are scented. Scented hygiene products have the potential to irritate the skin and affect your normal pH balance.

- Please remember to change tampons every four to eight hours.

- Do not use a single tampon for more than 8 hours at a time.

- Please choose the tampon that has the lowest absorbency suitable for your requirements. If you are able to wear a tampon for as long as 8 hours without needing to change it, it might indicate that the absorbency level is excessively high.

- Reusable period underwear is typically machine washable. Please adhere to the product instructions for optimal cleaning methods.

- Menstrual cups should be cleaned daily after each use.

- Menstrual cups should be completely rinsed and then immersed in hot water for a couple of minutes to sanitize them after your period has ended.

- Please ensure to wash your hands both before and after using the restroom, as well as before and after handling a menstrual product.

Conclusion

Factors such as comfort, lifestyle, environmental awareness, and budget considerations shape an individual's choice of menstrual hygiene product. With the right education and access to a range of options, individuals can confidently and sustainably manage their menstrual health. If you are uncertain about the most suitable option, please seek guidance from a healthcare professional for tailored recommendations.