Sanitary pads are the most commonly used menstrual product al around the world. Earlier in India, you didn’t have much choice, but now various products are available, and you can choose them according to your body, your flow or your comfort level. Considering periods are marked as taboo, people avoiding experimenting. Hence, this article is going to explain all the pros and cons of the menstrual product that are widely available in India. We are going to discuss our conventional sanitary pads and unconventional tampons and silicon cups.
Sanitary pads
We all know what sanitary pads are, these were the first thing that was quietly handed over to us when we first started menstruating. Some were taught how to use it, and some eventually got a hold of it. Sanitary pads are a long thick sheet that is placed in your underwear. The flaps on either end of the sanitary pads are called “the wings”. The wings are stuck outside your underwear, which helps it get secured in the place. It is the most accessible and comfortable menstrual product. But is it for everyone?
Pros
- They are widely available
- They are easy to use
- You don’t have to insert them in your vagina
- You can keep a check of your menstrual flow
- They can be worn even when you’re not menstruating
Cons
- Synthetic pads can cause you rash and irritation
- Synthetic pads are harmful to the environment.
- They are not appropriate for hefty flow
While synthetic sanitary pads can be harmful to you and your body, one can switch to organic sanitary pads or cotton sanitary pads. If you’re experiencing rash and itching during your periods, then it’s best to stop using the pads. There are many sanitary pads manufactures in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and in various parts of India. But they aren’t widely available offline. You can search for organic sanitary pads online and choose.
Tampons
Tampons are quite conventional in western countries but new in India. Tampons are cylindrical in shape with a thread at the other end. They are inserted in the vagina. Once they are in, they expand as they absorb blood and can be useful if you have a heavy flow. They are great to wear while you’re swimming.
Pros
- They are appropriate for hefty flow
- They can be worn while swimming
- They don’t feel like a diaper
- They are more discreet
Cons
- They are not widely available
- They are more expensive than sanitary pads
- They can induce toxic shock syndrome
- They can leak
- They can cause vaginal infections
- They are trigger gender dysphoria
- One cannot keep a check of their flow.
Not everyone is comfortable with tampons, and it will take time for your body to get adjusted to it. If you want to give them a try then for the initial few months, you should use it with a sanitary pad till the time you understand how to use it. You need to be extremely careful as a tampon should not be used for a long time. You need to keep on changing it to avoid vaginal infection constantly.
Menstrual cups
Menstrual cups are also called silicon cups. They are shaped like a bell with a stick at the other end. The stick is helpful while you’re inserting and removing the cup. When inserted in the vagina, it collects blood. Silicon cups are not disposable, unlike sanitary pads and tampons, and hence, it can be an expensive affair. One silicon cup lasts you for up to 5 years.
Pros
- Menstrual cups are environmentally friendly
- You can use them for hours.
- They are comfortable
- They do not cause toxic shock syndrome
Cons
- They are expensive
- They can cause irritation
- It can be a hassle to clean them
- It can be challenging to find the right fitting one
- You must not use it if you have birth control inserted
You can start by using it at home or with a sanitary pad. Make sure if you’re going out then you have a proper place to clean it as it should be washed two to three times a day. It could be expensive if you didn’t find the one that is appropriate for you.
A prominent cause of uncomfortable periods is the menstrual product you’re using. So if you’re having any difficulty during your menstruation, then it would be ideal to try different products and choose what is right for your body and your flow. Happy periods guys! 
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