🌸 Everything You Need to Know About Menstrual Products - A Guide for Teens

Hey lovely! 💕

If you’ve recently started your period or even if you’ve had it for a while you might still be figuring out what menstrual products work best for you. Don’t worry... you’re not alone! Everyone’s body is different, and finding what feels comfortable, safe, and right for your lifestyle is a journey.

As a naturopathic nutritional therapist and menstrual cycle awareness educator, I believe in giving you the full picture so you can make informed, empowered choices for your body and health. Let’s explore the main types of period products out there, how to use them, and a few important things to know along the way.

1. Sanitary Pads

What are they? Pads are absorbent strips you stick inside your underwear to catch your menstrual flow.

Types:

• Disposable pads: Most common.

• Reusable cloth pads: Eco-friendly and washable.

  
  

✅ Pros:

• Easy to use - perfect for beginners.

• No insertion needed.

• Good for light to heavy flow.

• Cloth pads are gentle on skin and reduce waste.

  
  

❌ Cons:

• May feel bulky & difficult if you're sporty, dance or enjoy exercise.

• Can shift around if not secured well.

• Disposable pads can be irritating for sensitive skin (especially if they contain fragrances or plastic).

  
  

🕒 How often to change:

• Every 3–6 hours, depending on your flow.

• Never wear the same pad for more than 8 hours.

2. Tampons

What are they? Tampons are small 'cylinders' made of absorbent material that you insert into your vagina to absorb your flow.

Types:

• With applicator (easier for beginners).

• Without applicator (eco-friendlier).

  
  

✅ Pros:

• Great for swimming and sports.

• Invisible - can’t be seen or felt when inserted correctly.

• Small and discreet to carry.

  
  

❌ Cons:

• Can feel uncomfortable if inserted incorrectly.

• Risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) (more on that below).

• Not ideal for very light or very heavy days unless you choose the right absorbency.

  
  

🕒 How often to change:

• Every 3-4 hours.

• Never leave in for more than 8 hours (to avoid TSS).

  
  

3. Period Underwear

What is it? Special underwear with built-in absorbent layers that catch your flow. You wear it just like normal underwear.

✅ Pros:

• Super comfy - no extra products needed.

• Good for overnight or light flow days.

• Reusable - eco-friendly and cost-effective over time.

• Good for anyone just starting their periods.

  
  

❌ Cons:

• Expensive upfront.

• You need several pairs to get through a cycle.

• May not feel secure on very heavy days without backup.

• Requires 'maintenance' and you need to follow the washing instructions.

  
  

🕒 How often to change:

• Usually lasts a full day, but can depend on your flow.

• Change if it feels damp or full.

  
  

4. Reusable Cloth Pads

What are they? Just like regular pads, but made of washable fabric like cotton or bamboo.

✅ Pros:

• Gentle on sensitive skin.

• Eco-friendly and cheaper in the long run.

• Come in cute patterns!

  
  

❌ Cons:

• You need to carry a wet bag if changing in public.

• Requires washing and drying after each use.

  
  

🕒 How often to change:

• Every 4-6 hours or as needed.

5. Menstrual Cups

What are they? Flexible silicone or rubber cups that you fold and insert into your vagina. They collect blood rather than absorb it.

✅ Pros:

• Lasts up to 10 years with proper care.

• Can be worn for up to 12 hours.

• Eco-friendly and very cost-effective over time.

  
  

❌ Cons:

• Learning curve for inserting and removing.

• Not ideal for those uncomfortable with touching their body (totally okay!) or squeamish about blood.

• Must be sterilized between cycles.

  
  

🕒 How often to change:

• Empty every 8–12 hours depending on your flow.

• Rinse and reinsert.

⚠️ A Word About Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)

TSS is a rare but serious bacterial infection linked to tampon use - especially if you leave one in for too long. It can also happen (though less commonly) with menstrual cups.

To prevent TSS:

• Always wash your hands before and after inserting anything.

• Never leave a tampon in for more than 8 hours.

• Use the lowest absorbency tampon you need i.e. don't use a heavy flow tampon if you only have a light flow.

• If you ever feel sudden flu-like symptoms (high fever, rash, vomiting, muscle aches), remove the product and seek medical help immediately.

🌼 What Else Should You Know?

💡Your Flow Is Unique

Some people bleed more, some less. It may take a few cycles to learn your own rhythm and that’s okay.

💡Always Carry Extras

Keep a small pouch in your school bag with products, clean underwear, and wipes just in case.

💡Listen to Your Body

Discomfort is not normal. If a product feels painful or wrong, switch it up. There’s no "one size fits all", and pain or discomfort is your body sending you a message.

💡Track Your Cycle

Use a period app or journal to notice patterns, including energy, moods, cravings, and when your period is due. This helps you feel more in tune with your body.

💡Respect Your Choices

There’s no “right” way to manage your period. You don’t have to use tampons. You don’t have to switch to a cup. You’re in charge! Trial different types of products until you find what suits you and your lifestyle.

Your period is not gross. It’s not something to be ashamed of. It’s a beautiful, natural part of your body’s rhythm, and understanding it gives you power. Whether you go with pads, cups, period pants, or a mix, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable, safe, and supported.

If you have questions, don’t be afraid to ask a trusted adult, or a health professional. Knowledge = confidence.

Stay curious, stay empowered, and always trust your body.

Colette x