I Tried Every Period Product Under the Sun So You Don’t Have To

Jul 25

Hey there, Sexplorers!

Today, I want to share my personal journey through the wild (and sometimes overwhelming af) world of period products. If there’s a period product out there, chances are I’ve tried it. From tampons and pads to menstrual cups and period panties, I’ve explored it all. Why, you ask? Because I believe that every person deserves to have a comfortable, safe, and convenient period experience. AND, if you haven’t heard, we’ve received some *interesting* news lately about what’s actually in our menstrual products.

Recently, a groundbreaking study shook the period product industry. Scientists found trace amounts of metals like aluminum, copper, and even lead in various tampons and pads. Combine that with the knowledge that some products contain harmful chemicals like dioxins, and you’ve got a whole ass problem. These substances can have long-term health effects, including hormonal disruptions, allergic reactions, and even an increased risk of cancer.

The study's findings have caused a wave of concern among menstruators worldwide. For years, we've trusted these products to keep us clean and comfortable, but now we must reconsider their safety. The research highlights the need for greater transparency and regulation in the period product industry. It also underscores the importance of exploring alternative options that prioritize our health and well-being.

With these new revelations in mind, let’s dive into the pros and cons of some alternative period products. Whether you're looking for something eco-friendly, budget-conscious, or simply more comfortable, there's an option out there for you. Here's a quick rundown of some of the most popular alternatives:

*Note that “Initial Cost” was originally listed as a con for all of these products, but it began to feel redundant. Yes, there is a potentially cost-prohibitive upfront cost for most of these options (from $30 for a menstrual cup to $60+ for enough period panties to cover a full 5-day period), however, the up-front cost pays for itself overtime. The average menstruator spends over $200 a year on products!! Similarly, all of these products included the “pro” of being eco-friendly and (mostly) waste-free.

Menstrual Cups

Pros:

Long Wear Time: Can be worn for up to 12 hours and can hold up to 2-3 super-absorbent tampon’s worth of blood, depending on what size cup you choose.

Less irritation: The medical-grade silicone used doesn’t dry out the sensitive vaginal walls the way tampons do.

Less cramps: Some menstruators swear that their heavy period cramps got better when they started using cups!

Cons:

Learning Curve: Insertion and removal can take some practice.

Comfort: May not be comfortable for everyone, especially those with certain medical conditions.

My Personal Experience:

I used a menstrual cup exclusively from 2013 to about 2016, when I had my Paraguard IUD swapped for a Mirena. It definitely took a few cycles to get the hang of insertion and removal, but once I did, I loved it. The freedom of not worrying about changing products frequently was incredible. Once I switched to a Mirena, I stopped having a real period, so I didn’t need the amount of flow that the cup could hold, which is when I switched to organic cotton pads.

Menstrual Discs

Pros:

Long Wear Time: Can be worn for up to 12 hours and can hold up to 2 super-absorbent tampon’s worth of blood.

Less irritation: The medical-grade silicone used doesn’t dry out the sensitive vaginal walls the way tampons do!

Mess-Free: Some users find them less messy to insert and remove compared to cups.

Comfort: Can be more comfortable for some users than menstrual cups.

Sexy: The disposable versions (and some softer reusable versions) can be worn during penetrative sex!!

Cons:

Learning Curve: Insertion and removal require practice.

Cost: Disposable discs are expensive, at about $1.25-$1.50 per disc. The average menstruator uses 8 per cycle

My Personal Experience:

I only used a disc once and it was honestly a horror story (0/10 cannot recommend trying to remove them at a Jonas Brothers concert) BUT, that was long before I knew how tf my anatomy worked, and I was also doing it in a public bathroom so I was very nervous and couldn’t relax enough to insert it properly. I am REALLY looking forward to trying the free disc that I was sent by Hello Disc during my next period so that I can report back!

Period Panties

Pros:

Convenience: Wear like regular underwear, no need for additional products.

Comfort: Super comfy and discreet.

Cons:

Absorption Limit: Might not be enough for very heavy flow days.

Maintenance: They require regular washing and drying.

My Personal Experience:

I tried Thinx wayyy back in 2015 and got a yeast infection after every damn cycle. I cannot in good conscience recommend period panties to anybody who experiences frequent infections or any kind of vaginal microbiome imbalance, HOWEVER, I know that they’ve improved immensely in the past 10 years, so I look forward to giving them a try again once my coochie calms down. We also learned in 2019 that Thinx brand in particular, contained PFAS or “forever chemicals” that are known to cause reproductive harm. So do your research, and check my product guide at the bottom of this post!

Reusable Cloth Pads

Pros:

Gentle on Skin: Made from natural materials, they're less likely to cause irritation.

Easy: No insertion or removal is necessary.

Cons:

Maintenance: They require regular washing and drying.

Bulkiness: Some may find them bulkier than disposable pads.

My Personal Experience:

Switching to reusable cloth pads was one of the best decisions I made for my skin. As a sensitive skin girlie, cloth pads are wayyy more gentle on my vulva. Admittedly, I am currently using disposable pads still until my microbiome gets under control. I change my pads roughly every 2 hours which is just not feasible with reusable pads!

Free Bleeding

Pros:

No Products Needed: Free bleeding eliminates the need for any period products, reducing waste and cost.

Body Connection: It promotes a more natural connection with your body and menstrual cycle.

Comfort: No irritation or allergic reactions from products.

Cons:

Practicality: It can be challenging to manage in public or during physical activities.

Stigma: Free bleeding is still taboo in many societies, which might make it uncomfortable for some.

My Personal Experience:

I’ll be honest, I have only ever free-bled by accident, and while it was mostly fine, I was definitely a bit anxious about the moisture and its potential to cause a yeast infection, so for now, I avoid it.

Some shopping tips:

1. Do Your Research: Look into the ingredients and materials used in the products you're considering.

2. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your body reacts to different products. Comfort and safety should always come first.

3. Consider the Environment: Eco-friendly options not only benefit you but also the planet. Reusable products significantly reduce waste.

4. Budget Wisely: While some products have a higher initial cost, they can save you money in the long run. Weigh the pros and cons to make a financially sound decision.

5. Stay Open-Minded: What works for someone else might not work for you, and that's okay. Be open to trying new things until you find your perfect match.

The recent study on toxic chemicals in tampons and pads is a wake-up call for all menstruators. It reminds us to be vigilant about what we put in and on our bodies. Exploring alternative period products is not just about finding comfort and convenience; it's about ensuring our long-term health and well-being.

Every period is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. My journey through various period products has taught me the importance of choice and adaptability. Whether you prefer the simplicity of free bleeding, the comfort of period panties, or the eco-friendliness of menstrual cups, the key is to find what makes you feel your best.