Choosing the Best Feminine Hygiene Products: A Complete Guide

Choosing the right feminine hygiene products is essential for comfort and convenience when managing your period. In this guide, we explore the different types of feminine hygiene products, both external and internal, and provide information to help you make an informed decision on what feminine hygiene products to use based on your needs and preferences.

Every period is unique, and understanding how yours works can help you plan and find the right products to contain and control your flow.

Let’s dive in!

External Feminine Hygiene Products

External feminine hygiene products, such as pads and feminine hygiene underwear, refer to those worn outside the body. These products are typically easier to use and require less of a learning curve, making them great options for those just starting their period journey.

Sanitary Pads

Sanitary Pads, or sanitary napkins, are absorbent items worn in your underwear during menstruation. The underside of the pad has a sticky adhesive that sticks to the underwear. Most sanitary pads have “wings” that fold over the edges of the underwear to help keep it in place and prevent leaks.

Changing frequency and usage

Pads are generally very easy to use, making them an excellent option for period beginners. Pads also make it easy to monitor your period flow and help you know when to change to a new pad because you can see (and feel) how they absorb over time. Your flow will dictate when it’s time to change your pad. Even if you have a lighter flow and it may not seem like you need a new sanitary pad, changing it every 3-4 hours is still best practice to prevent odor, irritation, and bacteria growth.

Sanitary pad shapes and sizes

Pads come in many shapes and sizes. You may have to experiment with several types and brands of pads to find the size and absorbency that works best for you. Below are some different pad options:

Super: Super pads offer extra absorbency, making them a good option for heavy flow days and overnight.
Slender: Slender pads have a narrower build and provide less absorbency than a super pad. Slender pads are a good option for light to moderate flow days and feel less bulky in your underwear.
Overnight: Overnight pads are intended for overnight use when you cannot change your pad every 3-4 hours. Overnight pads typically are longer and have high absorbency to prevent leaks at night.
Maxi: Maxi pads offer maximum coverage and absorbency. They are suitable for heavy flow days and provide front-to-back and side-to-side protection to help prevent leaks. Because of their high absorbency, maxi pads may feel bulky when worn.
Mini: Mini pads are great for lighter flow days or as a backup when wearing internal period products, such as a tampon or menstrual cup. They are comfortable, discreet, and ideal for those who prefer minimal coverage.
Reusable: Reusable pads are an eco-friendly alternative to disposal pads. They are made from materials such as cotton or bamboo and come in several sizes and absorbencies. Reusable pads are washed and dried between uses.

While you may see many scented pads on the market, avoiding any feminine hygiene products with added perfumes or fragrances is best. These products have added chemicals that can irritate the vaginal and vulva skin. If you have sensitive skin or notice your skin reacting to pads, opting for an unscented, 100% cotton-based pad is your best option.

Are you just starting your period journey? Check out our comprehensive “My First Period Guide” here for all the information you need to become a period expert!

Reusable Menstrual Underwear

Reusable menstrual underwear are an eco-friendly alternative to disposable pads and tampons. They are designed to absorb menstrual flow and can be worn, washed, and reused like normal underwear. Menstrual underwear typically features multiple layers, including a moisture-wicking layer to keep you dry, an absorbent core to capture and hold menstrual fluid, and a leak-resistant outer layer.

Changing frequency and usage

The frequency of change varies depending on the type of menstrual underwear you wear and how heavy your flow is. On a light flow day, you may be able to wear your menstrual underwear for up to 12 hours. Heavier flow days may require a change every 4-6 hours. Overnight menstrual underwear are designed to be worn overnight. If used as a backup to tampons or menstrual cups, you may be able to wear your menstrual underwear all day. Ultimately, it's time to change your menstrual underwear if you feel damp or uncomfortable or notice leaks.

Menstrual underwear styles

Just like pads, menstrual underwear comes in various styles and absorbencies. And just like regular underwear, they come in many different style types, allowing you to choose what is most comfortable for your body.

Some of the different styles of menstrual underwear include:

Bikini: These are low-rise underwear with moderate coverage. They are a popular everyday style and often come in various absorbency levels.
Briefs: Brief-style menstrual underwear offers more coverage and a higher waistband. They can provide extra comfort and support.
Boyshorts: These have a boxer-brief style with a wider leg opening. They offer full coverage and can be exceptionally comfortable for some people.
High-Waisted: High-waisted menstrual underwear provides coverage up to the waistline. This style can be helpful for extra coverage and support, especially during heavier flow days.
Thongs: Some brands offer thong-style menstrual underwear for those who prefer minimal coverage. These are often intended for light flow days.

Menstrual underwear washing and care

When cleaning your menstrual underwear, following the manufacturer’s instructions is best to ensure their longevity and absorbency. Generally speaking, you should clean your menstrual underwear by doing the following steps:

Rinse: After use, give them a quick rinse in the sink with cold water as soon as possible. Rinsing helps remove excess menstrual fluid and deep-set stains.
Pre-Treat (if needed): If the underwear is heavily stained, apply a small amount of gentle enzyme-based stain remover to the stained area before washing. Follow the stain remover's instructions and avoid using harsh chemicals.
Wash: While you should follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, you can wash menstrual underwear by hand or machine wash. If machine washing is recommended, use a gentle cycle and cold water to help preserve the absorbent layers. If hand washing, use cold water and a mild fragrance-free detergent.
Drying: Use a low heat setting if the manufacturer allows machine drying. High heat can reduce the lifespan of the absorbent layers and elasticity. Otherwise, air-dry the underwear to prevent fabric and elasticity damage. If you air-dry the underwear, hang them in a well-ventilated area.

Learn about the different types of menstrual cycle problems that can affect a woman’s natural flow. Read our blog post!

Internal Feminine Hygiene Products

Internal feminine hygiene products are inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual flow. While they may require a bit of practice, they offer advantages like being able to swim during your period.

Tampons

Tampons are popular for their convenience and discreteness. Tampons are menstrual products that absorb blood when inserted into the vaginal canal. The absorbent material inside the tampon expands as it soaks up the fluid. Tampons are typically made with cotton, rayon, or a mix of both materials.

Tampon insertion and usage

Learning to use tampons, like any new skill, may be tricky at first. The more you practice using tampons, the more familiar you'll become with your body and how to insert a tampon in the way that best works for you. However, tampons should not be painful. If you are uncomfortable wearing a tampon, try taking it out and inserting a new one. You may need to change the angle you are inserting the tampon.

Most tampons come with an applicator that can be thrown away once inserted. Tampons have a range of applicators, including:

Plastic: The most common material tampon applicators are made of is plastic. Tampons made of plastic applicators are typically more comfortable because they are easier to insert into the vagina.
Extendable: Also made of plastic, expandable applicators are discreet and ideal for travel. The bottom tube of the applicator can be extended and clicked into place before insertion.
Cardboard: While cheaper than plastic applicators, cardboard applicators can be more difficult to insert, leading to discomfort.

Tampons have a string attached that remains on the outside of the body after insertion. When it’s time to remove and change your tampon, gently and firmly pulling on the string will allow it to slide out.

Dive into our informative blog post to learn about the four phases of the menstrual cycle. Read the blog post now!

Tampon changing and maintenance

The frequency of changing a tampon depends on your flow and the absorbency of the tampon. Generally, tampons should be changed every 4-6 hours for a light to moderate flow and every 2-4 hours for a heavy flow. Tampons can be worn overnight but should be changed right before bed and immediately after waking up. Even if your flow is light, it is not advised to wear a tampon for over 8 hours, as your risk of leaks and toxic shock syndrome (TSS) increases.

It may be inconvenient to change a tampon during your busy day. Still, it’s important to be consistent with changing to prevent bacteria growth and keep your body healthy during your period.

Tampons should only be worn when menstruating, and you should never use a tampon for spotting or discharge. Using a tampon outside of your period may lead to discomfort, infection, or Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). While tampons come in scented options, it is best to avoid them as some may find them irritating and can disrupt your pH balance.

Tampon sizes and absorbencies

Tampons generally come in three different absorbances. The lighter the absorbance, the smaller the tampon will be.

Light: Provides the least amount of coverage. Best for light-flow days.
Regular: Good for average flow days.
Super: Suitable for heavy flow days and overnight.
Super Plus: Maximum absorbency. Best for women who have an extra heavy flow at the beginning of a menstrual cycle.

It’s best to always use the lowest absorbency rating possible during your period. You should choose a tampon that provides the right absorbency for your flow, not the one that will absorb for the most extended time. Selecting the best absorbency for your menstrual flow is essential because super absorbency tampons are most often linked to TSS. However, keeping any tampon in for longer than advised can also increase your risk of TSS.

Menstrual Cups

Menstrual cups are a reusable period product designed to collect period blood when menstruating. They are flexible bell-shaped cups made from medical-grade silicone, rubber, latex, or elastomer. Menstrual cups offer an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to disposable pads and tampons.

Menstrual cup insertion and usage

Like tampons, menstrual cups are inserted inside the vagina. The cup creates a seal against the vaginal walls, preventing leaks and allowing the fluid to collect within the cup. Once full, the cup can be removed, emptied, washed, and reinserted.

Because they take a while to get used to and can be difficult to insert correctly, menstrual cups can be inconvenient to some. If you are starting your menstrual cup journey, carrying a tampon or pad as a backup is best. Although, once you get beyond the learning curve of using a menstrual cup, they are typically easy to insert and remove. Menstrual cups also have an added convenience: users can leave them in for a longer time in comparison to tampons.

Menstrual cup changing and maintenance

The frequency of changing a menstrual cup depends on your flow and the capacity of the cup. Menstrual cups should be changed every 10-12 hours or if you’re experiencing any leaks, which may indicate the cup is full. You can wash and reinsert it once you empty it into the toilet.

Menstrual cup sizing

Like all other period products, menstrual cups come in various shapes and sizes. Period cup brands typically come in two sizes: small and large. Some brands even have three to four sizes, including smaller teen options. Menstrual cups are not a one-size-fits-all product, and they may feel uncomfortable or leak unless you wear the correct size.

Take a look at our blog to learn five key yoga poses that can help ease painful menstrual cramps.

Menstrual Hygiene

Maintaining proper menstrual hygiene is crucial for your health and comfort during your period. Follow these best practices to minimize bacteria, odors, and pH imbalances:

Change period products regularly: It's important to change your period products based on your flow. Regular changes of tampons, pads, and other period products help prevent leaks, discomfort, and infections.
Cleanse your vulva with lukewarm water or mild soap: Do not use any soaps, feminine hygiene products, or pH-balancing cleansers with added fragrances and chemicals. These can disrupt your body's natural pH balance and cause irritation.
Never clean the inside of your vagina: Your vagina is self-cleaning, and internal douching is unnecessary. Cleaning inside may disrupt your natural pH balance and lead to irritation.
Opt for fragrance-free period products: Select period products without added fragrance to prevent potential irritation.
Keep your hands clean while handling menstrual products: Wash your hands before and after changing period products to ensure proper hygiene.

Check out our complete vaginal and vulva care guide here!

Choosing the Feminine Hygiene Product That Works Best for You

It's important to remember that everyone’s body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. The most important consideration is to find the best, most comfortable, and safest option for you!

Consider comfort, convenience, flow level, and lifestyle factors when choosing a feminine hygiene product. For example, you may prefer a menstrual cup during the start of your period when your flow is heaviest and pads near the end of the cycle when it lightens up. Or if you live an active lifestyle, you may find tampons work best for you. Sometimes, it takes trial and error to find the right product. Don't be discouraged if your first choice isn't perfect. You can always try something else or a combination of several period products.

Have questions or concerns about your body and periods?

The providers at Moreland OB-GYN are here to help as your trusted resource and partner in reproductive health. Schedule an appointment today to discuss any concerns or questions about your period or health.