Pads, Tampons, or Cups? Let’s Break Down Your Best Options

Have you ever had one of those moments where you just stop and think, Oh my gosh! Maybe it’s something surprising someone said, or maybe it’s realizing you’re totally unprepared for your period. Trust me, we’ve all been there. But don’t worry—whether you’re new to menstruation or just looking for a refresher, this guide will walk you through the basics of pads, tampons, and cups.

These are the most common products people use during their periods, and knowing how to use them can make your cycle so much easier to manage.

Period Newbie? Which Menstrual Product is Right for You? 

At the end of the day, the best menstrual product is the one that makes you feel the most comfortable and confident. Whether you’re team pad, team tampon, or team cup, the key is to be prepared.

Menstrual Pads

Let’s start with menstrual pads. These are probably the most straightforward options out there. You just stick the pad on the inside of your underwear, and it sits there, ready to absorb menstrual fluid as it leaves your vagina. No fuss, no complicated steps—just peel, stick, and go.

• Pads come in a variety of sizes, from thin liners for light days to thicker ones for heavier flows.
• Change your pad every 3-4 hours to stay fresh and avoid discomfort.
• Dispose of used menstrual pads properly: wrap them in toilet paper and throw them in the trash. Never flush pads down the toilet!

Pads are a great choice if you’re looking for something simple and easy to use. They’re especially helpful if you’re new to menstruation or prefer not to use internal products.

Menstrual Cups

If you’re someone who likes to think about the environment (or just wants to save money in the long run), menstrual cups might be your new best friend. These little cups are made for internal use, which means you insert them into your vagina. They collect menstrual fluid instead of absorbing it, and they’re reusable, so you can use the same cup for up to a year.

• Cups can be worn for up to 12 hours, making them super convenient for busy days.
• Clean your cup thoroughly between uses with water.
• No applicator is included, so you’ll need to be comfortable using your hands to insert and remove it.

Menstrual cups are a fantastic option if you’re looking for something sustainable and cost-effective. Plus, they’re perfect for overnight use or long days when you don’t want to worry about changing your product frequently.

Tampons

Tampons are another popular option, especially if you’re looking for something discreet. They’re designed for internal use, just like menstrual cups, but instead of collecting fluid, they absorb it before it leaves your body. This makes them a great choice if you’re into sports or swimming or just want a product that stays out of sight.

• Tampons come in different sizes: start with slim or thin ones if you’re a beginner.
• Change your tampon every 4-6 hours or sooner if it’s full.
• Never flush tampons down the toilet—wrap them up and toss them in the trash.

Some tampons come with applicators to make insertion easier, while others don’t. It’s all about what feels most comfortable for you. Tampons are ideal for active lifestyles or when you need something that won’t get in the way.

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Final Thoughts

Don’t wait until the last minute to think, Oh my gosh, what should I do? Keep your favorite products on hand, and you’ll be ready for anything your cycle throws at you.

Here’s a quick recap of what to remember:

• Pads: Simple, external, and easy to use. Change every 3-4 hours.
• Cups: Eco-friendly, reusable, and long-lasting. Change every 12 hours.
• Tampons: Discreet, convenient, and great for active lifestyles. Change every 4-6 hours.

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