Period Products… Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing the right period product can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options out there. Here’s how to choose which period products are right for you.
This is a guest blog written by Freya Curtis and Molly Fenton, young activists part of the Love Your Period Campaign.
Whether you’re looking for comfort, convenience, or sustainability, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a quick and simple guide to help you find what works for you.
Pads (Disposable & Reusable)
Disposable pads are one of the most common period products. They come in different shapes and sizes, with or without wings, and are worn in your underwear. Pantyliners are a lighter option, great for the start or end of your period.
Reusable pads work the same way but are washable, making them a more eco-friendly and cost-effective choice. Just rinse, wash, and reuse!
Tampons
Tampons are worn inside the vagina to absorb blood. They can be a bit tricky at first, but there are lots of helpful resources to guide you. They’re great if you want to swim or do sports without worrying about leaks. Tampons should be changed every 4–8 hours.
Here is some information on how to use a tampon.
Menstrual Cups & Discs
If you’re looking for a reusable option that lasts all day, menstrual cups and discs could be for you.
Menstrual cups are soft, flexible cups that sit inside the vagina and collect blood. They can be worn for up to 12 hours and come in different sizes.
Menstrual discs sit higher up in the vagina, near the cervix, and can also hold a lot of blood. Some people even use them during sex.
Both options are sustainable and can be more comfortable once you get used to them. It often takes a few cycles to adjust. Wear a pad as well on your first few periods to catch any leaks.
Here is some information on how to use a menstrual cup.
How to use a menstrual cup from Boots.
Period Pants
Reusable period pants look and feel like regular underwear but have built-in layers that absorb blood. They’re great on their own or as backup with another product. Just rinse and wash after use!
Do ensure to wash before use to activate the material to capture your period efficiently.
Choosing what’s best
Everyone’s period is different. You might prefer one product, or mix and match depending on:
- Your flow (heavy or light days)
- Your activities (like sports or swimming)
- What feels most comfortable for you
Explore what works for your body. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to manage your period.
Support from Meic
This is a guest blog written by Freya Curtis and Molly Fenton, young activists part of the Love Your Period Campaign. Read more blogs from the campaign.
Meic want to amplify young people’s voices across Wales, using our platform to co-produce meaningful content that truly reflects their experiences and helps drive positive change. That’s why we’ve teamed up with Love Your Period to create our “Love Your Period” campaign.
The Love Your Period Campaign aims to end period poverty by ensuring free access to menstrual products and to combat period stigma through better education and open conversations. It strives to make periods a normal, accepted topic, ensuring everyone has dignity and support during menstruation.
Affected by anything you read about in this blog? Reach out to our friendly advisors on the Meic helpline. Meic is there for children and young people in Wales to get free information, advice, and advocacy every day from 8am to midnight. We’re someone on your side.
