Choosing the right menstrual products can be difficult, because the selection is large and everyone's cycle works differently. One person loses a lot of blood, the other loses less but more irregularly. It is therefore sometimes a quest to find out what exactly suits you. Fortunately, there are many shapes and sizes, so there are many options for everyone!
What are menstrual products?
Menstrual products are intended to collect the blood, preventing it from ending up in your panties or pants.
Sanitary pads
One of the most famous products is sanitary towels. Sanitary pads are easy to use and available in different sizes, shapes and thicknesses, so everyone can find a type of sanitary pad that suits their period. Sanitary towels are also made of various materials, such as sanitary towels made of cotton, but also sanitary towels made of fabric so that you can wash them yourself.
By placing or sticking the bandage in your underwear, the material absorbs the blood. Depending on how much blood you lose, change the sanitary towel. This often happens with every visit to the toilet. 70% of people who menstruate use sanitary towels.
Panty liners
A panty liner actually works exactly the same, and is the thinner sister of sanitary towels. As a result, they sometimes absorb slightly less, which is why they are often used on days when people have less flow.
Tampons
Tampons are inserted vaginally. When you first start doing this it may sound a bit scary, but in practice it is very simple! It already collects the blood in the vagina. Many people use this solution because they do not like feeling the blood running (like with sanitary towels). When you want to change the tampon, pull the string to get it out. Tampons are available in various sizes, so you can find a size that suits your period, but also the day of your period. 30% of people who menstruate use tampons.
Menstrual cup
Nowadays, more and more sustainable menstrual products are being made, such as the menstrual cup. You insert these vaginally just like tampons. The difference is that it collects more blood and can be cleaned after use and then re-inserted. A menstrual cup looks like an upside-down bell or chalice and is often made of flexible, flexible material, such as silicone, jubber or thermoplastic elastomer. 5% of people who menstruate use a menstrual cup.
Menstrual underwear
Another sustainable alternative is menstrual underwear. Menstrual underwear is absorbent underwear with built-in pads or compartments. You can wear this underwear during your period so that the blood is immediately collected by the briefs. At the end of the day you can wash out the underwear and put on new ones. This underwear is also available in various shapes and sizes.
Monthly currently offers menstrual products to companies and organizations: dispensers with tampons and sanitary towels. These dispensers are hung in the office toilets so that everyone always has products at hand. For hygienic reasons, we do not (yet) offer menstrual underwear and menstrual cups.
