Hey, menstruators!

For as long as I can remember our periods have always been a thing we loathe at. I mean, ask yourself — when was the last time you were ever excited to get your period other than that time you thought, you are but you didn’t want to be?

Periods can be messy, sticky, smelly, uncomfortable, you name it. But have you ever wondered whether maybe it’s just because you aren’t using the right products?

In this article, we’re going to discuss and dissect your menstrual product options and get you that happy period you deserve!

Keeping It In Your Pants: The Non- Invasives

Menstrual Pads

Menstrual pads or napkins are the OGs of menstrual products and hopefully, if you’ve been using them for a while, you’ve been taught the proper ways of storing and disposing of them (NOT LEAVING THEM FACE UP IN PUBLIC BATHROOMS!).

As convenient as they are, they do tend to cause multiple menstrual-related woes such as unpleasant smells, leaking, chafing, and sometimes even infections #huu. 

IMO, commercial menstrual pads are a great entry-level product to use until you start asking yourself, “Is there something better out there?” and the answer is yes! Yes, they are.

Eco-Friendly Option: Organic Sanitary Pads

Typically, commercially sold pads take over 500- 800 years to decompose. With more menstruating individuals becoming more ecologically conscious of their waste, the need for more eco-friendly pads was in high demand.

NALA WOMAN is a Cebuana owned enterprise that focuses on providing safe, sustainable products that are not only free of plastics that will fill our landfills and oceans, but also products free of harmful chemicals and artificial fibers that your body will eventually thank you for. 

Their organic sanitary pads look and feel exactly like our traditional pads with the magic being what they’re made of. In truth, they are a little bit more pricey than the commercial pads, but it’s a small investment for Mother Nature.

Reusable Pads

Reusable pads, also known as pasadors, are another variation of your good ol’ trusted napkins that, in this case, are made out of various cloths eliminating the use of plastic in your pads.

Although I have yet to try these products, a lot of women advocate for them online. They are definitely a great option if you’re hoping to make a switch and given that reusable pads fit into your lifestyle. 

Menstrual Pants

If you’re a heavy bleeder and overnight pads just don’t cut it anymore, we might just be able to introduce you to your new best friend.

Over the last couple of years, menstrual pants have made a slow entry into the menstrual product market in the Philippines. More likely to resemble adult diapers minus the unnecessary thickness, menstrual pants are a great option for heavy days especially if you’re the type to bleed your sheets during the night.

Menstrual Underwear

Menstrual underwear, while relatively new, has gotten high praises from users who have found a new and effective way of bleeding.

Based on the feedback I’ve gathered online, it’s a great new alternative for those who enjoy the freedom of pads without the sticky feeling and without having to invade their lady holes.

It’s interesting to see how the technology of menstrual underwear is bound to change the game, as more brands have also started to come out with menstrual bikinis, workout clothes, and more! 

Let’s See What’s In There: The Invasives

Tampons

Getting ready to go to the beach and it just so happens to be that time of the month? Or a swim meet you’ve been training for months and the red tide decides to come in? Perhaps a night out and your #OOTD cannot be bothered by anything bulky? A tampon might just be your solution.

Tampons have been a long and trusted friend in the menstrual category as these rolled-up pieces of cotton are a great short-term fix. Are they healthy? Are they good for the environment? Can you leave it stuck in there? Not necessarily, no and yes so I do urge you to do ample research before committing to tampons.

The better solution is right below.

Menstrual Cups or Discs

Surprisingly, menstrual cups or the idea of sticking an orifice into your vagina during your period has been around for over 150 years but has only recently started becoming mainstream (after much improvements!). 

As the name suggests, menstrual cups and discs are shaped exactly like they are called and are designed to be inserted into a menstruating vagina where it will sit comfortably, collecting blood and is to be pulled out after a certain amount of time or when it starts to feel full (yes, there are ways to indicate this).

I talk about these gems more in detail in multiple videos but if you’re thinking about making the switch, you might want to take a look at this video.

When all else fails, free bleed.