Learn more about selecting a menstrual cup and how to determine which ones. Of all of the products I asked Rosas about, there was only one she hadnt tried: menstrual sea sponges.
We went on our regular scour of the internet and found some handy alternatives you can try when you run out of sanitary napkins or tampons.
Its a common misconception that tampons are better and hold more blood than their reusable counterparts, says Kim Rosas, an expert in the reusable period care space, from Period Nirvana. You can expect to pay between $25 to $40 per pair, depending on the brand. A single reusable disc or cup, for instance, only costs $30 to $40 to start and can last up to 10 years, which ends up way cheaper than buying new tampons and pads each month. We are available 24 hours a day / 7 days a week. Even with a few of the wrong purchases, though, you may still save money. These products are all washable, which means theyre not only preferable to some women but also better for the environment. The pads from Aisle felt much less bulky than the ones from Simfamily, and they didnt tend to slide around as much either. She explained that, like disposable pads, these pads can also shift around throughout the day, which may leave you feeling a bit self-conscious. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. I first tried (opens in a new tab)Ziggy(opens in a new tab), a reusable menstrual disc by the brand Intimina, as well as disposable discs from (opens in a new tab)Flex(opens in a new tab) and (opens in a new tab)Softdisc(opens in a new tab). Here's how it works, potential side effects, and more. The right alternative for you depends on what youre looking for and what youre comfortable with. All rights reserved. The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox. The problem is, menstrual sponges aren'tfederally-regulatedor a top pick among medical professionals. Your email address will not be published. Kim Rosas, menstrual product expert and founder of (opens in a new tab)Period Nirvana(opens in a new tab), a site that helps people better understand and shop for menstrual products, noted that even a perfectly sized cup will take a few cycles to work out the kinks. 2022 Mashable, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 
But you should aim to change your pad at least daily. *All Shipping prices displayed are for the lower 48 states only. The Ziggy felt more comfortable to me than the disposable discs I tried, since its rim is made with super soft silicone rather than firm plastic. 
With the right care, you may reuse menstrual cups from six months to ten years. However, if youre intimidated by the idea of inserting a cup or disc, you could try period panties. Many brands suggest slim or small options for someone like me (under 30, hasnt carried a full-term pregnancy), but those are just suggestions. Rosas agreed, describing the feeling of the petals as like a constant wedgie. Without a dedicated laundering bag, these were also a pain to wash, and got lost in the nooks and crannies of my dryer. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. To make our product selections, we did extensive online research and read customer reviews. They are available in reusable and one-time use options. Each product has its pros and cons, and it might take some trial and error to decide which one works best for you. (Disclosure: I didn't try them, either. We are human, after all. I didnt love the disposable discs (the rim was more firm and noticeable once inserted, and the crinkly plastic was off-putting) or the waste they create, but since discs can be worn for up to 12 hours at a time, they still create less waste than tampons. Rosas said that the unregulated nature of products like sea sponges and homemade tampons gives her pause. menstrual underwear or period pantiesis another period product to replace tampons and sanitary pads. Mashable, MashBash and Mashable House are among the federally registered trademarks of Ziff Davis, LLC and may not be used by third parties without explicit permission. Between birth control, tampons, sanitary pads, pain killers, heating pads, and other necessities, you could easily spend more than $18,000 on period products throughout your life, according to aHuffington Post report. 2005-2022 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Heres how, With so many options available, it can be tough to know where to start. The Period Nirvana quiz asks you relevant questions and gives you a few options that match your needs. The clear choice As technology continues to march forward, there are even more innovative ways to greet Aunt Flo when she comes to town. When I looked into menstrual sponges for myself, I found that the FDA also classifies menstrual sponges as significant risk devices, which can pose serious potential risks to the health and welfare of the user. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. One of the biggest downsides of menstrual discs is the cost. Another cool feature is its extra long stem, which helps you find the cup with your fingers for removal and can be trimmed for comfort. Tampons are accessible for many, they come in a range of sizes and absorbencies, and they get the job done without much mess. How important is a reusable product to me? We avoid using tertiary references. So now that you know a few tips, share it with your friends and family so that this can be helpful to every woman out there. By signing up to the Mashable newsletter you agree to receive electronic communications As with anything else you might put in your body, it's always a good idea to do your own research or consult with your doctor before making major changes to your period routine. The downside is you may need to buy more than one pair to last your entire cycle without daily washes. Crocheted or cloth tampons are untested, unregulated, and can potentially cause dangerous problems including toxic shock syndrome, which is what happens when there is an overgrowth of staph bacteria in the vagina causing your body to go into shock, Gupta said. When it comes to choosing the best tampon alternative for you, there are a few things youll want to consider. Stephanie Barnes is a front-end/iOS engineer and freelance writer whose work has been featured on The Huffington Post, MindBodyGreen, and more. Most users who switch would say that their experience with a cup or disc has been better than with tampons, this has a lot to do with how comfortable they are. Here's what I learned in writing this story: The general shape of a cup is typically the same between different brands, but some are longer than others to account for higher or lower cervixes. With corrective eyewear from daily contacts to fashionable lenses from top brands all guaranteed eligible.
Cups and discs are both worn inside the vagina. But the placement is really what differentiates them. According to theOffice on Women's Health, periods can last three to seven days per monthfrom age 12 to 52. Maybe youll find that you prefer menstrual cups or maybe period panties are more your speed. The best way to clean a cup in between uses is to dump its contents in the toilet, then rinse it clean in a sink before reinserting it, but you can wipe it down with toilet paper or disposable wipes(opens in a new tab) if you dont have access to a sink. See you at your inbox! Your body may not tolerate a menstrual cup, eitherand it may cause vaginal irritation. The Flex cup had a cool pull tab design that unseals the cup so you dont have to pinch the cups base, but overall Id still be too spooked about the risks to my IUD to use these regularly. Last medically reviewed on April 27, 2022, If you maintain daily cleaning during your period, as well as monthly sterilization, youll keep your menstrual cup in pristine condition. 20 Birth Control Side Effects Every Woman Should Know. As with most cups, the stem is merely used to find the base of the cup when its time to take it out after 12 hours or when full. This story was published in 2021 and updated in June 2022. But there are several tampon alternatives to consider if youre looking for other ways to get through that time of the month. Some manufacturers also claim the product may cut back on period cramps. The Jori Skincare founder and wife of renowned dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeicher shares the products keeping her breakouts at bay. Share on Facebook (opens in a new window), Share on Flipboard (opens in a new window). We do not sell internationally. After use, just toss it in the washing machine. How did women survive in the days before pads and tampons? Another newer alternative to tampons and sanitary pads ismenstrual discs. If you buy something through links on our site, Mashable may earn an affiliate commission. from Mashable that may sometimes include advertisements or sponsored content. And they do not increase the risk for a vaginal infection compared with tampons. To revisit this article, visit My Profile, thenView saved stories.
The problem is, somefeminine care productsmay be too expensive to experiment withor continue using long-term. These cups are folded and tucked inside the vagina to collect period fluid. Whether you want to save money, create less waste, or try something newthere is no shortage of new period products. If inserted properly, your menstrual disc should sit higher up near your cervix, which should offer a more comfortable fit when compared with a tampon. Menstrual discs allow the user to have less messy intercourse during periods, Kimble says. But the device didnt become popular until recently, when brands such as DivaCup and Lunette hit store shelves. We also reached out to several experts, including gynecologists, to get their input and recommendations. We asked doctors to break down the possible side effects of birth control to help you pick the best method for you. Theres a reason tampons and pads have been so popular for so many yearsthey work. The Embryo Project Encyclopedia. You can wear these for up to eight hours, but how frequently you change them out will depend on how heavy your flow is, just like with a disposable pad. However, over the years, feminine hygiene products have come a long way, and there are countless options outside of tampons. Try These Alternatives In The Meanwhile. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Either way, its worth exploring. In fact,some gynecologistsurge those who menstruate to avoid them. Also, it may be messier than using a tampon or sanitary pad. But weve come a long way since the 70s, when women were still wearing belts to keep their pads in place because adhesive sanitary napkins hadnt yet been invented. You may get twelve glorious hours of leak-free period protectionand you can wear it while having penetrative sex. Catch murmurs & AFib Rosas also said that since discs dont sit in the vaginal canal, they fit more universally and require less guesswork than cups. Theres no set interval at which you have to swap out your period underwear, but after a few hours bacteria begins forming and theyll start to smell pretty gross, so its a good idea to change them out regularly. Elevate patient essentials with Eko DUO ECG + Digital Stethescope, the first and only smart cardiac disease detection system. This means theyre registered with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Depending on your flow, you should get around 4 to 8 hours of protection from your reusable pad, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Cups can sometimes slide down or be forced out, because they're held with muscle tone, Rosas said. There are plenty of reasons to explore alternatives totamponsand pads. Period underweara.k.a. Youll want to decide what fits your lifestyle and body the best, Rosas says. HOW?? Dont stress, ladies! Theyre typically more expensive than regular underwear. Earn FSA Perks Points, unlock member-only rewards, and speed up the checkout process. Stay shielded And just like disposable pads, youll want to change your reusable pad when it starts feeling heavy, wet, or uncomfortable. Another perk is sustainability. sea sponges or sanitary spongesare another eco-friendly alternative to tampons and sanitary pads. Heres how to get super-comfy in your yard. As the name suggests, tampon alternatives are feminine hygiene products that are used in place of tampons. As you might have guessed, a cloth pad is simply the more sustainable version of a disposable pad. Cori Zeichner Couldnt Find Acne Products That Worked for HerSo She Created Her Own. Rosas recommended taking discs out in the shower until you get the hang of it, then you can try removing them over the toilet and somewhat aim the mess into the toilet (I have not gotten there yet). Gersh notes that menstrual cups produce less odor and reduce vaginal infections for some. Companies like Thinx and Knix Wear carry period panties in designs ranging from athletic undies to sexy lingerie, and Dear Kate even makes yoga pants you can wear without pads or underwear. The menstrual disc is one of the newer period products on the market, but does it live up to the hype? 3 Comfortable Bottom Wears that you Will Love to Wear During Period. Rosas says menstrual cups tend to be a bit easier to use but more finicky to find the right fit. As for the cons, upfront costs might be high. For most people who have periods, tampons are still the go-to option to tackle that time of the month. To clean these after each use, you can rinse or pre-soak the pads, then toss them into the washer. Do I have easy access to a washing machine, or do I feel comfortable washing period products by hand. Period underwear also offers gender-neutral optionslike period boy shorts or period boxer briefs. Reusable pads are good if your flow is heavier and youre not quite ready to try a cup. When it comes to cleaning your reusable pad, its best to follow the instructions provided in the package. The OG is worth it (if you can find it), but these styling tools deliver similar results at a much more reasonable price point. Although you may wear a menstrual cup for up to twelve hoursthe product may be tough to insert or remove.
For example, Thinx says you may use their product forup to two years.
One selling point for discs is that you can have penetrative sex while wearing them. By checking out as a Returning Customer or Guest, you agree that you have read, understand and agree to the, FLEX Menstrual Cup (includes 2 FREE Menstrual Discs), Always Ultra Thin Pads with Wings, Unscented. Period underwear looks and feels like regular underwear but theres a special absorbent layer. Tampon alternatives are fairly safe, if not safer than tampons. Why use anything other than a tampon or pad? Care for cuts and scrapes with a complete lineup of first aid essentials from waterproof bandages to antiseptic and more! Don't get discouraged if it doesnt seal perfectly or feel comfortable right away. Menstrual discs are similar to menstrual cups in that they are inserted and collect period blood. ), I am going to fully admit that I'm not brave enough to try that product, she said. As someone who's passionate about reducing waste, one area Ive found myself lacking is in my use of tampons. Like menstrual cups, menstrual discs can be messy to insert and remove. Here's what I found out. I also tried another reusable disc, Nixit(opens in a new tab), and found it easy to insert and comfortable to wear.
Menstrual cups are small, flexible, sometimes collapsible funnel-shaped containers that are usually made from latex, silicone, or rubber. Since the pandemic has me working from home, I figured it was the perfect time to try more than a dozen menstrual products without having to worry about bleeding through my pants during a 40-minute commute on the subway. Going Swimming? To revisit this article, select My Account, thenView saved stories. Its mess-free for the person not wearing the disc, as theres plenty of mess once the disc has to come out. Kimble says these reusable cloth pads may not be as comfortable as some of the other alternatives on this list. These Tampons Have You Covered, Estrogen vs. Progesterone: Functions in the Human Body, Everything You Need to Know About the Kyleena IUD, Everything You Need to Know About the Male Birth Control Injection, Everything You Need to Know About the Ella Morning After Pill. If you dont like the bulkiness, potential shifting, or frequent trips to the bathroom that come with sticking a pad in your panties, a number of underwear brands now build them right into the lining. To stay on top of all FSA news that can affect your health and financial wellness, be sure to follow us onFacebookandTwitter. The Kind cup was an initial favorite. What happened to that secret stash you had kept for emergencies? We'll discuss birth control, menopause treatment, gender affirming care, and. So, if youre ready to ditch your tampons, keep reading to find something that could work for you. It feels like regular underwearwhile still being absorbent. That said, its important to follow application and care instructions for each tampon alternative to ensure safe use and good hygiene. (You can easily measure your cervix height with a finger if youre not sure.) And just like regular underwear, youll likely require multiple pairs, because youll need to wash them after each use. To take out a disc, you need to catch the rim of the disc with a finger, then pull it down to untuck it from behind the pubic bone. These period products may also have bacteria that could cause toxic shock syndrome. One of the biggest advantages of period underwear is the ability to save money. Oh no!! And depending on your flow, you may be able to keep your cup in for up to 12 hours. Ad Choices, 5 Tampon Alternatives You Need to Know About. A cloth pad is snapped into place in the crotch of your underwear and can be worn for up to six hours. Ever been caught off-guard by your period, with nary a tampon (let alone a tampon alternative) in sight? But in the end, youll discover a whole new way of experiencing your period. Additionally, when recommending brands, we made sure they adhere to industry best practices and that the products arent potentially harmful. Kyleena is a hormonal intrauterine device (IUD), a tiny, flexible T-shaped device placed inside your uterus to prevent pregnancy for five years. Caring Mill Organic Cotton Ultra Thin Liners, Light, 20 ct. Caring Mill Organic Cotton Period Bikini Black, Dear Kate Period Underwear, Nellie Brief Full, U by Kotex Click Compact Tampons, Super Absorbency, Caring Mill Organic Cotton Regular /Super Tampon Assorted, Thinx Period Proof Super Hiphugger, Black, Caring Mill Organic Cotton Super Tampons, FSA Perks Official Rules, Terms & Conditions, 5 Alternative Menstrual Products to Tampons and Pads, This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and Google, Minimum of 1 special character ($%/()[]{}=? If you exclusively use cloth pads or period underwear, these will require washing. Choosing a cup can be confusing when switching from tampons. Stuck on 'Wordle' #405? Its a last resort and by no means a standard solution for managing your period, but its the best option in a pinch! Web3 darling Helium has bragged about Lime being a client for years. Ella also known as the morning-after pill is a type of emergency contraception.
These padswhich may come in more than one piecework like disposable sanitary pads. Help your kids stay healthy in summer, as well as during the school year. Menstrual tampon. Period underwear may be less convenient than tampons, though. Back to school picks One of the most common alternatives to tampons and pads are menstrual cups, which collect blood from inside the vaginal canal for up to 12 hours at a time. Inserting the Ziggy felt so easy compared to wrestling with menstrual cups that it felt too easy. As the name suggests, discs are, in fact, discs rather than cups. Since I have an IUD myself, I proceeded with utmost caution while trying out the other cup options. There are different sized reusable cloth padsdepending on your flowand you should expect to change them every two to six hours. Its easier than ever to find your perfect fit [now] with the wide selection of sizes, shapes, lengths, and firmness of cups and discs, Rosas adds. Here's what we, Estrogen and progesterone are important hormones that regulate your body. Menstrual cupsare a popular alternative to tampons and pads. The Honey Pot 100% Organic Top Sheet Super Herbal Menstrual Pads with Wings, Stayfree Ultra Thin Pads Overnight with Wings, Stayfree Ultra Thin Pads Regular with Wings, Cora Organic Cotton Ultra Thin Period Pads, Stayfree Ultra Thin Pads Super Long with Wings. Menstrual sponges may have unwanted particleslike yeast, mold, sand, and grit. This is good when theres nothing else around, but if you can (say youre at home but just out of tampons), reach for sterile gauze instead. How to choose the best tampon alternative for you, acog.org/womens-health/faqs/your-first-period, How to Clean and Store Your Menstrual Cup. Removing and dumping the contents of a cup is definitely a bit more hands-on than pulling out a tampon, but once you get the hang of pulling a cup out, most of the blood stays in the cup rather than getting all over your hands. U by Kotex AllNighter Ultra Thin Overnight Pads with Wings, Unscented, 14 ct. U by Kotex Ultra Thin Teen Pads with Wings, Extra Absorbency, Unscented, 14 ct. U by Kotex Super Premium Ultra Thin Overnight with Wings Teen Pad, 12 ct. Stayfree Maxi Pads Overnight with Wings, 28 ct. U by Kotex Security Maxi Pad with Wings, Overnight, Unscented, 14 ct. Period panties are usually comfortable, and the built-in layer helps prevent blood from seeping through. Although one of the biggest advantages may be the ability to save money over time, you may need to buy a bunch to get startedwhich could be costly. 2022 Cond Nast. If youve been thinking about switching out your tampons for one of the available alternatives, theres no time like the present. There are somelike the Intima Ziggy Cup, for examplewith a design that is a lot like a disc. This disposable period product has been getting attention for a few good reasons. We're here to help with tips, clues, and the answer. Beyond that, however, there are some key differences that put these tampon alternatives in a class all their own. The biggest differences are you may snap them into placealong with the ability to wash and reuse them. June Gupta agreed with Rosas concern for untested period products, saying that not all tampon alternatives are good ones. Spoilers within. Like tampons, menstrual discs are disposable and should not be reused. Shes passionate about all things health and wellness especially as it affects minority communities, technology, and spree-worthy television. Discs can be more hands-on to insert and remove but have a shorter learning curve. Beyond leaks, Kimble says they are better for the environment and can also result in cost savings in the long run. Depending on the brand, a menstrual disc may absorb up to five or six teaspoons of bloodwhich is equal to about five regular or three super tampons. Do I have access to private, clean bathrooms throughout the day? And no one wants that.
We went on our regular scour of the internet and found some handy alternatives you can try when you run out of sanitary napkins or tampons.
Its a common misconception that tampons are better and hold more blood than their reusable counterparts, says Kim Rosas, an expert in the reusable period care space, from Period Nirvana. You can expect to pay between $25 to $40 per pair, depending on the brand. A single reusable disc or cup, for instance, only costs $30 to $40 to start and can last up to 10 years, which ends up way cheaper than buying new tampons and pads each month. We are available 24 hours a day / 7 days a week. Even with a few of the wrong purchases, though, you may still save money. These products are all washable, which means theyre not only preferable to some women but also better for the environment. The pads from Aisle felt much less bulky than the ones from Simfamily, and they didnt tend to slide around as much either. She explained that, like disposable pads, these pads can also shift around throughout the day, which may leave you feeling a bit self-conscious. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. I first tried (opens in a new tab)Ziggy(opens in a new tab), a reusable menstrual disc by the brand Intimina, as well as disposable discs from (opens in a new tab)Flex(opens in a new tab) and (opens in a new tab)Softdisc(opens in a new tab). Here's how it works, potential side effects, and more. The right alternative for you depends on what youre looking for and what youre comfortable with. All rights reserved. The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox. The problem is, menstrual sponges aren'tfederally-regulatedor a top pick among medical professionals. Your email address will not be published. Kim Rosas, menstrual product expert and founder of (opens in a new tab)Period Nirvana(opens in a new tab), a site that helps people better understand and shop for menstrual products, noted that even a perfectly sized cup will take a few cycles to work out the kinks. 2022 Mashable, Inc. All Rights Reserved. But you should aim to change your pad at least daily. *All Shipping prices displayed are for the lower 48 states only. The Ziggy felt more comfortable to me than the disposable discs I tried, since its rim is made with super soft silicone rather than firm plastic. With the right care, you may reuse menstrual cups from six months to ten years. However, if youre intimidated by the idea of inserting a cup or disc, you could try period panties. Many brands suggest slim or small options for someone like me (under 30, hasnt carried a full-term pregnancy), but those are just suggestions. Rosas agreed, describing the feeling of the petals as like a constant wedgie. Without a dedicated laundering bag, these were also a pain to wash, and got lost in the nooks and crannies of my dryer. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. To make our product selections, we did extensive online research and read customer reviews. They are available in reusable and one-time use options. Each product has its pros and cons, and it might take some trial and error to decide which one works best for you. (Disclosure: I didn't try them, either. We are human, after all. I didnt love the disposable discs (the rim was more firm and noticeable once inserted, and the crinkly plastic was off-putting) or the waste they create, but since discs can be worn for up to 12 hours at a time, they still create less waste than tampons. Rosas said that the unregulated nature of products like sea sponges and homemade tampons gives her pause. menstrual underwear or period pantiesis another period product to replace tampons and sanitary pads. Mashable, MashBash and Mashable House are among the federally registered trademarks of Ziff Davis, LLC and may not be used by third parties without explicit permission. Between birth control, tampons, sanitary pads, pain killers, heating pads, and other necessities, you could easily spend more than $18,000 on period products throughout your life, according to aHuffington Post report. 2005-2022 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Heres how, With so many options available, it can be tough to know where to start. The Period Nirvana quiz asks you relevant questions and gives you a few options that match your needs. The clear choice As technology continues to march forward, there are even more innovative ways to greet Aunt Flo when she comes to town. When I looked into menstrual sponges for myself, I found that the FDA also classifies menstrual sponges as significant risk devices, which can pose serious potential risks to the health and welfare of the user. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. One of the biggest downsides of menstrual discs is the cost. Another cool feature is its extra long stem, which helps you find the cup with your fingers for removal and can be trimmed for comfort. Tampons are accessible for many, they come in a range of sizes and absorbencies, and they get the job done without much mess. How important is a reusable product to me? We avoid using tertiary references. So now that you know a few tips, share it with your friends and family so that this can be helpful to every woman out there. By signing up to the Mashable newsletter you agree to receive electronic communications As with anything else you might put in your body, it's always a good idea to do your own research or consult with your doctor before making major changes to your period routine. The downside is you may need to buy more than one pair to last your entire cycle without daily washes. Crocheted or cloth tampons are untested, unregulated, and can potentially cause dangerous problems including toxic shock syndrome, which is what happens when there is an overgrowth of staph bacteria in the vagina causing your body to go into shock, Gupta said. When it comes to choosing the best tampon alternative for you, there are a few things youll want to consider. Stephanie Barnes is a front-end/iOS engineer and freelance writer whose work has been featured on The Huffington Post, MindBodyGreen, and more. Most users who switch would say that their experience with a cup or disc has been better than with tampons, this has a lot to do with how comfortable they are. Here's what I learned in writing this story: The general shape of a cup is typically the same between different brands, but some are longer than others to account for higher or lower cervixes. With corrective eyewear from daily contacts to fashionable lenses from top brands all guaranteed eligible. Cups and discs are both worn inside the vagina. But the placement is really what differentiates them. According to theOffice on Women's Health, periods can last three to seven days per monthfrom age 12 to 52. Maybe youll find that you prefer menstrual cups or maybe period panties are more your speed. The best way to clean a cup in between uses is to dump its contents in the toilet, then rinse it clean in a sink before reinserting it, but you can wipe it down with toilet paper or disposable wipes(opens in a new tab) if you dont have access to a sink. See you at your inbox! Your body may not tolerate a menstrual cup, eitherand it may cause vaginal irritation. The Flex cup had a cool pull tab design that unseals the cup so you dont have to pinch the cups base, but overall Id still be too spooked about the risks to my IUD to use these regularly. Last medically reviewed on April 27, 2022, If you maintain daily cleaning during your period, as well as monthly sterilization, youll keep your menstrual cup in pristine condition. 20 Birth Control Side Effects Every Woman Should Know. As with most cups, the stem is merely used to find the base of the cup when its time to take it out after 12 hours or when full. This story was published in 2021 and updated in June 2022. But there are several tampon alternatives to consider if youre looking for other ways to get through that time of the month. Some manufacturers also claim the product may cut back on period cramps. The Jori Skincare founder and wife of renowned dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeicher shares the products keeping her breakouts at bay. Share on Facebook (opens in a new window), Share on Flipboard (opens in a new window). We do not sell internationally. After use, just toss it in the washing machine. How did women survive in the days before pads and tampons? Another newer alternative to tampons and sanitary pads ismenstrual discs. If you buy something through links on our site, Mashable may earn an affiliate commission. from Mashable that may sometimes include advertisements or sponsored content. And they do not increase the risk for a vaginal infection compared with tampons. To revisit this article, visit My Profile, thenView saved stories.
The problem is, somefeminine care productsmay be too expensive to experiment withor continue using long-term. These cups are folded and tucked inside the vagina to collect period fluid. Whether you want to save money, create less waste, or try something newthere is no shortage of new period products. If inserted properly, your menstrual disc should sit higher up near your cervix, which should offer a more comfortable fit when compared with a tampon. Menstrual discs allow the user to have less messy intercourse during periods, Kimble says. But the device didnt become popular until recently, when brands such as DivaCup and Lunette hit store shelves. We also reached out to several experts, including gynecologists, to get their input and recommendations. We asked doctors to break down the possible side effects of birth control to help you pick the best method for you. Theres a reason tampons and pads have been so popular for so many yearsthey work. The Embryo Project Encyclopedia. You can wear these for up to eight hours, but how frequently you change them out will depend on how heavy your flow is, just like with a disposable pad. However, over the years, feminine hygiene products have come a long way, and there are countless options outside of tampons. Try These Alternatives In The Meanwhile. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Either way, its worth exploring. In fact,some gynecologistsurge those who menstruate to avoid them. Also, it may be messier than using a tampon or sanitary pad. But weve come a long way since the 70s, when women were still wearing belts to keep their pads in place because adhesive sanitary napkins hadnt yet been invented. You may get twelve glorious hours of leak-free period protectionand you can wear it while having penetrative sex. Catch murmurs & AFib Rosas also said that since discs dont sit in the vaginal canal, they fit more universally and require less guesswork than cups. Theres no set interval at which you have to swap out your period underwear, but after a few hours bacteria begins forming and theyll start to smell pretty gross, so its a good idea to change them out regularly. Elevate patient essentials with Eko DUO ECG + Digital Stethescope, the first and only smart cardiac disease detection system. This means theyre registered with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Depending on your flow, you should get around 4 to 8 hours of protection from your reusable pad, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Cups can sometimes slide down or be forced out, because they're held with muscle tone, Rosas said. There are plenty of reasons to explore alternatives totamponsand pads. Period underweara.k.a. Youll want to decide what fits your lifestyle and body the best, Rosas says. HOW?? Dont stress, ladies! Theyre typically more expensive than regular underwear. Earn FSA Perks Points, unlock member-only rewards, and speed up the checkout process. Stay shielded And just like disposable pads, youll want to change your reusable pad when it starts feeling heavy, wet, or uncomfortable. Another perk is sustainability. sea sponges or sanitary spongesare another eco-friendly alternative to tampons and sanitary pads. Heres how to get super-comfy in your yard. As the name suggests, tampon alternatives are feminine hygiene products that are used in place of tampons. As you might have guessed, a cloth pad is simply the more sustainable version of a disposable pad. Cori Zeichner Couldnt Find Acne Products That Worked for HerSo She Created Her Own. Rosas recommended taking discs out in the shower until you get the hang of it, then you can try removing them over the toilet and somewhat aim the mess into the toilet (I have not gotten there yet). Gersh notes that menstrual cups produce less odor and reduce vaginal infections for some. Companies like Thinx and Knix Wear carry period panties in designs ranging from athletic undies to sexy lingerie, and Dear Kate even makes yoga pants you can wear without pads or underwear. The menstrual disc is one of the newer period products on the market, but does it live up to the hype? 3 Comfortable Bottom Wears that you Will Love to Wear During Period. Rosas says menstrual cups tend to be a bit easier to use but more finicky to find the right fit. As for the cons, upfront costs might be high. For most people who have periods, tampons are still the go-to option to tackle that time of the month. To clean these after each use, you can rinse or pre-soak the pads, then toss them into the washer. Do I have easy access to a washing machine, or do I feel comfortable washing period products by hand. Period underwear also offers gender-neutral optionslike period boy shorts or period boxer briefs. Reusable pads are good if your flow is heavier and youre not quite ready to try a cup. When it comes to cleaning your reusable pad, its best to follow the instructions provided in the package. The OG is worth it (if you can find it), but these styling tools deliver similar results at a much more reasonable price point. Although you may wear a menstrual cup for up to twelve hoursthe product may be tough to insert or remove.
For example, Thinx says you may use their product forup to two years.
One selling point for discs is that you can have penetrative sex while wearing them. By checking out as a Returning Customer or Guest, you agree that you have read, understand and agree to the, FLEX Menstrual Cup (includes 2 FREE Menstrual Discs), Always Ultra Thin Pads with Wings, Unscented. Period underwear looks and feels like regular underwear but theres a special absorbent layer. Tampon alternatives are fairly safe, if not safer than tampons. Why use anything other than a tampon or pad? Care for cuts and scrapes with a complete lineup of first aid essentials from waterproof bandages to antiseptic and more! Don't get discouraged if it doesnt seal perfectly or feel comfortable right away. Menstrual discs are similar to menstrual cups in that they are inserted and collect period blood. ), I am going to fully admit that I'm not brave enough to try that product, she said. As someone who's passionate about reducing waste, one area Ive found myself lacking is in my use of tampons. Like menstrual cups, menstrual discs can be messy to insert and remove. Here's what I found out. I also tried another reusable disc, Nixit(opens in a new tab), and found it easy to insert and comfortable to wear.
Menstrual cups are small, flexible, sometimes collapsible funnel-shaped containers that are usually made from latex, silicone, or rubber. Since the pandemic has me working from home, I figured it was the perfect time to try more than a dozen menstrual products without having to worry about bleeding through my pants during a 40-minute commute on the subway. Going Swimming? To revisit this article, select My Account, thenView saved stories. Its mess-free for the person not wearing the disc, as theres plenty of mess once the disc has to come out. Kimble says these reusable cloth pads may not be as comfortable as some of the other alternatives on this list. These Tampons Have You Covered, Estrogen vs. Progesterone: Functions in the Human Body, Everything You Need to Know About the Kyleena IUD, Everything You Need to Know About the Male Birth Control Injection, Everything You Need to Know About the Ella Morning After Pill. If you dont like the bulkiness, potential shifting, or frequent trips to the bathroom that come with sticking a pad in your panties, a number of underwear brands now build them right into the lining. To stay on top of all FSA news that can affect your health and financial wellness, be sure to follow us onFacebookandTwitter. The Kind cup was an initial favorite. What happened to that secret stash you had kept for emergencies? We'll discuss birth control, menopause treatment, gender affirming care, and. So, if youre ready to ditch your tampons, keep reading to find something that could work for you. It feels like regular underwearwhile still being absorbent. That said, its important to follow application and care instructions for each tampon alternative to ensure safe use and good hygiene. (You can easily measure your cervix height with a finger if youre not sure.) And just like regular underwear, youll likely require multiple pairs, because youll need to wash them after each use. To take out a disc, you need to catch the rim of the disc with a finger, then pull it down to untuck it from behind the pubic bone. These period products may also have bacteria that could cause toxic shock syndrome. One of the biggest advantages of period underwear is the ability to save money. Oh no!! And depending on your flow, you may be able to keep your cup in for up to 12 hours. Ad Choices, 5 Tampon Alternatives You Need to Know About. A cloth pad is snapped into place in the crotch of your underwear and can be worn for up to six hours. Ever been caught off-guard by your period, with nary a tampon (let alone a tampon alternative) in sight? But in the end, youll discover a whole new way of experiencing your period. Additionally, when recommending brands, we made sure they adhere to industry best practices and that the products arent potentially harmful. Kyleena is a hormonal intrauterine device (IUD), a tiny, flexible T-shaped device placed inside your uterus to prevent pregnancy for five years. Caring Mill Organic Cotton Ultra Thin Liners, Light, 20 ct. Caring Mill Organic Cotton Period Bikini Black, Dear Kate Period Underwear, Nellie Brief Full, U by Kotex Click Compact Tampons, Super Absorbency, Caring Mill Organic Cotton Regular /Super Tampon Assorted, Thinx Period Proof Super Hiphugger, Black, Caring Mill Organic Cotton Super Tampons, FSA Perks Official Rules, Terms & Conditions, 5 Alternative Menstrual Products to Tampons and Pads, This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and Google, Minimum of 1 special character ($%/()[]{}=? If you exclusively use cloth pads or period underwear, these will require washing. Choosing a cup can be confusing when switching from tampons. Stuck on 'Wordle' #405? Its a last resort and by no means a standard solution for managing your period, but its the best option in a pinch! Web3 darling Helium has bragged about Lime being a client for years. Ella also known as the morning-after pill is a type of emergency contraception.
These padswhich may come in more than one piecework like disposable sanitary pads. Help your kids stay healthy in summer, as well as during the school year. Menstrual tampon. Period underwear may be less convenient than tampons, though. Back to school picks One of the most common alternatives to tampons and pads are menstrual cups, which collect blood from inside the vaginal canal for up to 12 hours at a time. Inserting the Ziggy felt so easy compared to wrestling with menstrual cups that it felt too easy. As the name suggests, discs are, in fact, discs rather than cups. Since I have an IUD myself, I proceeded with utmost caution while trying out the other cup options. There are different sized reusable cloth padsdepending on your flowand you should expect to change them every two to six hours. Its easier than ever to find your perfect fit [now] with the wide selection of sizes, shapes, lengths, and firmness of cups and discs, Rosas adds. Here's what we, Estrogen and progesterone are important hormones that regulate your body. Menstrual cupsare a popular alternative to tampons and pads. The Honey Pot 100% Organic Top Sheet Super Herbal Menstrual Pads with Wings, Stayfree Ultra Thin Pads Overnight with Wings, Stayfree Ultra Thin Pads Regular with Wings, Cora Organic Cotton Ultra Thin Period Pads, Stayfree Ultra Thin Pads Super Long with Wings. Menstrual sponges may have unwanted particleslike yeast, mold, sand, and grit. This is good when theres nothing else around, but if you can (say youre at home but just out of tampons), reach for sterile gauze instead. How to choose the best tampon alternative for you, acog.org/womens-health/faqs/your-first-period, How to Clean and Store Your Menstrual Cup. Removing and dumping the contents of a cup is definitely a bit more hands-on than pulling out a tampon, but once you get the hang of pulling a cup out, most of the blood stays in the cup rather than getting all over your hands. U by Kotex AllNighter Ultra Thin Overnight Pads with Wings, Unscented, 14 ct. U by Kotex Ultra Thin Teen Pads with Wings, Extra Absorbency, Unscented, 14 ct. U by Kotex Super Premium Ultra Thin Overnight with Wings Teen Pad, 12 ct. Stayfree Maxi Pads Overnight with Wings, 28 ct. U by Kotex Security Maxi Pad with Wings, Overnight, Unscented, 14 ct. Period panties are usually comfortable, and the built-in layer helps prevent blood from seeping through. Although one of the biggest advantages may be the ability to save money over time, you may need to buy a bunch to get startedwhich could be costly. 2022 Cond Nast. If youve been thinking about switching out your tampons for one of the available alternatives, theres no time like the present. There are somelike the Intima Ziggy Cup, for examplewith a design that is a lot like a disc. This disposable period product has been getting attention for a few good reasons. We're here to help with tips, clues, and the answer. Beyond that, however, there are some key differences that put these tampon alternatives in a class all their own. The biggest differences are you may snap them into placealong with the ability to wash and reuse them. June Gupta agreed with Rosas concern for untested period products, saying that not all tampon alternatives are good ones. Spoilers within. Like tampons, menstrual discs are disposable and should not be reused. Shes passionate about all things health and wellness especially as it affects minority communities, technology, and spree-worthy television. Discs can be more hands-on to insert and remove but have a shorter learning curve. Beyond leaks, Kimble says they are better for the environment and can also result in cost savings in the long run. Depending on the brand, a menstrual disc may absorb up to five or six teaspoons of bloodwhich is equal to about five regular or three super tampons. Do I have access to private, clean bathrooms throughout the day? And no one wants that.