Last Updated on March 7, 2024 by Team THIP
There is always a constant debate when it comes to feminine hygiene products, menstrual cups vs tampons vs sanitary pads. To determine what best meets your needs, you must be aware of the differences and balance the benefits and drawbacks. To help you choose wisely, we talked to some experts to know the characteristics of each option. Have a look into the characteristics of sanitary pads, tampons, and menstruation cups to determine which is best for you.
What are Menstrual Cups?
Menstrual cups are small and flexible. They are also known as period cups. Women insert it into the vagina to collect the menstrual bleeding. Cups, as opposed to tampons or pads, capture and collect the flow rather than absorb it. They come in diverse materials and sizes to meet a range of demands. Small cups are best appropriate for people under thirty years old with little to moderate flow or for those who haven’t given birth yet. Large cups, on the other hand, cater for people who have given birth or are over thirty and have a larger flow. Dr Sunita Sharma, Senior Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Infertility Specialist, Fortis Nagarbhavi, Bangalore sheds light on its sustainability and affordability, “As it is reusable, one cup lasts for almost 8 to 10 years.” But at the same time, Dr Sharma highlights the disadvantages associated with it, “not many people are comfortable using it. Especially initially when you start using it you find it very difficult to know the exact size which you should be using. Some people complain about the leak. Also, some people find it very difficult to remove, especially when it is full as it may become messier.”
What are Tampons?
Tampons are small cotton plugs that women insert into their vaginas to soak up blood during periods. They often have a string for quick removal and an applicator for effortless placement. Typically, individuals change tampons every 4 to 8 hours. However, if a tampon is used overnight, it is alright given that it is changed immediately before sleeping and after waking up. Though tampons are tiny, easy to carry and disposable, Dr Sharma says, “They may cause infections as they stay in the vagina after absorbing the blood. They also don’t help our surroundings since they are made of rayon and cotton, which take a long time to decompose.”
What are Sanitary Pads?
Most of the people in India prefer sanitary pads as it keeps the foreign objects out of their vagina. They absorb the blood which is why they are also known as absorbent or sanitary napkins. They are easy to wear with underwear as they stick to it. People can select them according to their preferences and flow patterns since they are available in a range of sizes and levels of thickness. Dr Sharma emphasises that while sanitary pads are affordable and disposable, their environmental impact is a significant drawback. “Even though they say they are biodegradable, the degradation takes years. The hassle of using it, which includes packaging and disposing of it, adds to the whole uncomfortable experience. Adding onto this, there’s the risk of skin rashes and allergies, which is made worse by the abundance of fake goods”, says Dr Sharma.
Menstrual Cups vs Tampons vs Sanitary Pads: Which One is Right for You?
After looking at the pros and cons of menstrual cups, tampons, and sanitary pads, the most applicable advice remains to be your choice. Dr Jashan Chhatwal, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Dua Superspeciality Center, Karnal emphasises the importance of understanding what suits you the best, “The functionalities of these goods vary widely. I don’t think any one product is more or less beneficial than the others because every woman has different needs and menstrual cycles. I suggest selecting the product that will give you the most comfort and convenience during your menstrual cycle.” Backing this up, Dr Sharma says, “I don’t think there’s a single size that fits all people. It mostly relies on the person’s regular activities. It also depends on their comfort of having a foreign object inside their vagina. Last but not least, menstrual flow plays a major role.”
To sum up, the decision to use sanitary pads, tampons, or menstrual cups is personal. It should be based on your requirements and preferences. It is clear from the opinions of medical professionals that every choice has a unique mix of benefits and disadvantages. Making an informed choice is essential to a worry-free and relaxing menstruation experience. You need to know where your priorities lie: comfort, cost-effectiveness, or environmental sustainability. Thus, carefully consider your alternatives and select the menstruation product that best suits your body type and way of life.
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