Menstruation is a major aspect of any woman's life, yet most of us are uncomfortable speaking about it openly. So much so that we resist saying the word ‘period’ out loud and prefer calling it that time of the month.
And if you are thinking that this game of secrecy stops here, you are wrong. There were and still are so many taboos around menstruation. Remember those black plastic bags your local pharmacist used to hand over when you purchased pads?
Yes! Now you know what we are talking about.
But did you know that menstrual illness and improper sanitation are responsible for the deaths of almost 800,000 women around the world in a single year?
Well, as shocking as it may sound it is really the fifth-biggest killer of women in the world. And this is why we should all (not only women!) pay extra heed to this ‘blood-y subject’, no matter how busy we are not talking about it.
So, if the cruciality of this issue concerns you, take it as a cue to be extra safe during your periods. And by care, we mean choosing the right menstrual products which are comfortable and body-safe. But the main question arises- How does one choose between pads, menstrual cups, tampons, and why? Now, before we begin to answer this let’s understand these products separately.
Tampons
Tampons are disposable, small, and cylindrical-shaped period products made using absorbent materials. Similar to regular pads, they come in different sizes depending on the absorbent capacity. But, unlike pads, they are supposed to be inserted into your vagina like a small plug to absorb all the period blood.
Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are cups made of silicone or rubber that are now most commonly used by women during periods. These cups are to be inserted inside your vagina just like a tampon. However, unlike a tampon, it collects the blood and does not absorb it. Fascinatingly, menstrual cups are also known to shorten your period process.
Regular Pads
Regular pads are been used by women from the very beginning. These sanitary napkins are made of blood absorbent materials that require to be changed more frequently during periods. However, an evident shift can be seen towards tampons & menstrual cups as women are getting to know more about them.
5 Factors You Need To Think About Before Choosing Between Menstrual Cups, Pads, or Tampons
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Comfort tops all the other priorities. Tampons and menstrual cups are to be inserted inside your vagina and due to this many of you might see it as an uncomfortable alternative to regular pads. However, with time and a better knowledge of how to use them, you can get a hang of it.
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One menstrual cup on an average basis can be used for at least 6 -10 months (or even years if kept well). Therefore, if you are a little tired of your monthly purchases or concerned about the environment, this is your hint to try menstrual cups or tampons.
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Cleaning is another important factor. While sanitary napkins and tampons are for one-time use and throw purposes, you can escape the hackles of repetitive cleaning like in the case of menstrual cups.
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In case you are traveling or indulging in any physical activity like exercising, then menstrual cups can be a comfortable choice as you do not have to change them often like pads.
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Bodysensitivityisanotheraspectyoumustlookinto.Menstrualcupsare mostly made of silicone or latex, but the material might not suit everybody and may cause rash or infections. In this case, regular pads or tampons should be the right choice.
Else, you can ensure that the products are body-safe and doctor-backed.
The list of factors doesn’t stop here and there are so many more things you should consider before making finalizing one menstrual product. Therefore, do your research and know your menstrual needs inside out.
And above all, let’s stop treating ‘Aunty Flo’ like a secret, rather start talking about it more often. Or maybe all the time? ;)
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