Menstrual Cup vs Tampon vs Pads: Which Period Product is Better?

As women, we all know the struggles of menstruation – cramps, mood swings, food cravings and fear of leakage. It is important to maintain hygiene during periods by using sanitary pads, tampons or menstrual cups. There have been significant advances in feminine hygiene products, offering women an array of options. While sanitary pads are the preferred choice in India, emerging options such as tampons and menstrual cups are gaining popularity. However, young women are increasingly opting for tampons or menstrual cups. So, the question arises – which is more effective: menstrual cup vs tampon vs pads? Here are the pros and cons of menstrual cups, tampons and pads.

Menstrual Cup vs Tampons vs Pads: Pros and Cons

Here are the pros and cons of menstrual cups, tampons and pads as explained by gynecologist Dr Anilasre Atluri.

What is a Menstrual Cup?

It is a comfortable cone-shaped feminine hygiene product designed for use during menstruation. Unlike pads and tampons, menstrual cups are used to absorb instead. It is inserted into the vagina and can be reused for years.

Pros of menstrual cup

1. Promotes less leakage

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Menstrual cups have a low leakage rate when properly inserted and sealed.

2. Maintains natural pH balance

They do not absorb any bacteria and do not disturb your body’s natural pH balance.

3. Prevents bad smell

With menstrual cups, you don’t have to worry about any odor.

4. Environmentally friendly

It is an eco-friendly product and produces less waste.

5. Financially feasible

You may have to spend a little extra on a menstrual cup initially, but it will last you a long time. So you don’t have to worry about spending money on menstrual products every time.

Disadvantages of menstrual cup

1. Layoff is messy

Inserting a menstrual cup may seem easy, but removing it can be tricky. It may take you some time to understand how it works properly.

2. Proper maintenance is essential

The cup needs to be rinsed after removal before reassembly. Also, the cup should be sterilized with hot water or a cleanser after each use. If the cup is not properly cleaned, it can harbor bacteria, which can cause illness or cause the silicone material to break down.

3. Possible fit problems

A menstrual cup is not a “one size fits all” approach so you may need to try a few different types or sizes to see what works best for you. Menstrual cups can cause problems if you have a small uterus or cervix.

What is a tampon?

Tampons are typically reusable period products made of soft, absorbent materials such as cotton, rayon, or a combination of the two, and are cylindrical. Tampons are inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual fluid directly from the source.

Pros of tampons

1. Availability of quantity is easy

Many women choose to wear tampons over sanitary pads. Tampons come in different sizes and absorbencies. So, you can use it for up to 8 hours.

2. No visibility

It can be very embarrassing if the pad is visible through your underwear. But with tampons, you can be carefree about this problem.

3. Prevents bad breath

Tampons have less odor than pads or other external items because they are internally inserted.

4. Allows swimming and other physical activities

Unlike pads, tampons allow you to swim while on your period. It is also possible to play sports and participate in other strenuous activities as they provide more comfort than pads.

Disadvantages of tampons

1. May increase risk of toxic shock syndrome

Tampons increase the risk of TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome), so it is important to use them as directed to reduce this risk.

2. Increases risk of infections

Tampon residue or fibers can cause the body to become inflamed or infected with bacteria. Tampons may also not be as effective for people with certain medical problems, including vaginal infections or sensitivity, and may need to use other menstrual products instead.

3. May be uncomfortable

When using tampons, some users may feel sensitive or uncomfortable, especially if the tampon is not properly placed or has an insufficient level of absorbency.

What is a sanitary pad?

Sanitary pads are rectangular shaped absorbent material that is attached to panties to absorb menstrual flow during periods. They come in different sizes, need to be changed often, and are usually made of layers of absorbent materials, including cotton, rayon, and other synthetic materials.

Also Read: Using expired sanitary pads or tampons is dangerous: Know the side effects

Advantages of sanitary pads

1. No TSS hazards

Compared to tampons, sanitary pads do not carry the risk of TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome), meaning there is no need to worry.

2. Easy to use

Sanitary pads are easy to use and don’t call for specific techniques or capabilities. They stay in place during use due to their adhesive side that adheres to underwear. Many people find pads easier to use during their periods and they are also easier to use and dispose of.

3. Prevents leakage for a long time

To avoid discomfort, sanitary pads are made with a high level of absorbency. There are super long pads, long pads, thick pads and very thin pads, women have a lot of options when it comes to wearing pads.

4. Easily accessible

Women can easily get sanitary pads as they are easily available in most stores and pharmacy shops.

Disadvantages of sanitary pad

1. May feel uncomfortable

Prolonged use of the pad may cause irritation, redness and rash. Additionally, it blocks air movement to your vagina, increasing the likelihood of bacterial infections and skin problems. Periodic sanitary pad use can occasionally cause discomfort, especially if the pads are not changed regularly.

2. Restrictions on movement

Sanitary pads can leak and cause walking discomfort, especially during strenuous activities or exercise if they are not changed on time.

3. Not environmentally friendly

Sanitary pads generate a lot of waste that ends up in landfills and take a long time to disassemble because each can only be used once before disposal. However, the market is slowly now witnessing the rise of eco-friendly period products.

How to choose between menstrual cups, tampons and pads?

Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, and what works best for one person may not work for another. However, the choice between menstrual cups, tampons and pads depends on personal preferences. If you choose a shorter, less visible method and are comfortable with insertion, it is better to use a tampon. If you prefer an external method that does not require insertion, it is better to use pads. If you are looking for an odorless reusable option, menstrual cups are the perfect feminine hygiene product to use according to convenience, needs and lifestyle.