Sanitary Pads

 

Sanitary pads are one of the most commonly used external feminine hygiene products available in the market. Made up of absorbent materials like cotton, cellulose, or plastic, pads are worn externally on the underwear to absorb menstrual blood flow. Some key things to know about pads are:

 

- Types: Pads come in various sizes (regular, extra long, etc.), absorbencies (light, regular, super, etc.), and styles (winged, pantyliner, etc.) suitable for different flow types and activities.

 

- Absorption: Modern pads contain super absorbent materials and channels to distribute liquids away from the body, keeping the wearer dry and comfortable.

 

- Usage: Pads are changed every 4-8 hours depending on the flow. Most women use 5-15 pads per period. Proper disposal after use is important for hygiene.

 

- Benefits: Pads are discreet and flexible to fit most underwear styles. However, some women report feeling of restriction or discomfort with prolonged use.

 

Menstrual Cups

 

Made of medical-grade silicone or rubber, Feminine Hygiene Products menstrual cups are small, flexible bell-shaped devices inserted into the vagina near the cervix to collect menstrual blood. Some key points about cups:

 

- Reusable: Cups can last up to 10 years with proper care and hygiene, making them more sustainable and cost-effective over time.

 

- Leak-proof: When inserted properly, cups form a seal that prevents leaks, allowing 12 continuous hours of protection.

 

- Comfortable: Being soft, flexible and placed low in the vaginal canal, cups are reported to cause less discomfort than other products.

 

- Environmental benefits: By reducing waste, cups help lower an individual's environmental footprint compared to disposable pads/tampons.

 

However, cups require practice for correct insertion and removal which some may find daunting initially. Spills or leaks are possible without proper use.

 

Access and Affordability Issues

 

While feminine hygiene products have become more widely available in recent decades, lack of access remains a significant issue for many:

 

- Poverty: In developing nations, periods often force girls to miss school and work due to lack of adequate, affordable products or societal stigma.

 

- Homelessness: Homeless or displaced women struggle to manage their period with dignity due to lack of facilities for product storage, disposal and washing.

 

- Natural disasters: Crisis situations disrupt supply lines, and make period care a low priority despite critical needs.

 

- Taxes: While considered a necessity, many nations still impose luxury taxes on pads/tampons instead of making them more affordable.

 

Addressing these issues requires efforts from governments, NGOs, brands to ensure women's health and empowerment. Initiatives like product donations, inclusive education programs can help reduce stigma and break biases.

 

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