Periods. Tolerate them or embrace them – they’re the visitor we’ve grown to expect. Chances are, you've probably found a period routine that works for you and stuck with it. But over the years as technology, health, and wellness have evolved, so has menstrual care and the information surrounding it.
If you’re curious about current period products on the market, read on. We break down the different categories and the pros and cons of each.
Pads
Pads are rectangles of cushiony, absorbent material that stick to your underwear and help to absorb menstrual blood.
Reasons To Love: Pads were likely the first period product you were introduced to. That’s because they’re incredibly easy to use and are effective for a variety of flow amounts.
Look Out For: They have a big environmental impact – with many, many pads ending up in landfills each year. Some pads also contain synthetic fragrances and these chemicals have been linked to pH disruption and bacterial vaginosis.
Truth Beauty Recommends: Choose a safe, earth-friendly option like the Reusable Pads from Essence of Life. Their two-pack kit includes one pad for day and one for night. They’re made from breathable bamboo fiber and a waterproof outer layer to protect you from leaks. Plus, once you’ve invested in them, you won’t need to buy period products every month.
Tampons
Tampons help to absorb menstrual blood during your period but instead of wearing them in your underwear, tampons are inserted into the vaginal canal. They’re typically worn for 2-4 hours at a time.
Reasons To Love: Tampons are one of the most convenient ways to manage your period and you can wear them during all types of activities – including swimming and working out.
Look Out For: Unfortunately, many conventional tampons on the market contain potentially toxic additives like synthetic dyes and BPA. These chemicals have zero therapeutic value and can cause a myriad of issues including vulva irritation.
Truth Beauty Recommends: When shopping for tampons, ensure that you’re looking for a 100% organic cotton variety. Joni’s Applicator-Free Tampons offer flow protection in three different sizes and are made from 100% organic cotton including the string.
Menstrual Cups
A relatively new period product, menstrual cups are flexible objects made of silicone or rubber that are inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood.
Reasons To Love: Menstrual cups have been touted as a stress-free period product. Available in a variety of shapes and sizes, they can help to absorb period flow for up to 12 hours at a time. Like tampons, they’re great to wear during a variety of activities.
Look Out For: They’re not as convenient in public since you have to manually remove the cup, dump it, and clean it in the sink. They also may have a bit more of a learning curve to get started. Once you know how to insert and remove them, they’re very easy to use.
Truth Beauty Recommends: Aisle makes a 100% Silicone Menstrual Cup in two convenient sizes that can be worn for up to 12 hours at a time. With proper care, they can last for up to a year before you need to replace them.
Which period products are you curious about? Do you still have questions about which one is right for you? Visit us in-store for a free consultation or send us a message on Instagram @thetruthbeautycompany.
