Periods suck, that we all know. Our emotions are everywhere, our bodies feel strange and our acne starts to flare up. On top of all the changes we feel internally, we have to also deal with managing the mess on the outside of the body. From tampons to pads, there is so much waste we are creating while on our periods. Not to mention that disposable period products are either very harmful or hard to get a hold of. Just last year, the U.S. experienced a tampon shortage, Although the period experience is not fun, some companies have made it a tad bit easier on us by creating reusable period products.

The idea of reusable period products is nothing new. Before pads and tampons were available, people with periods would bleed into their clothes or use homemade flannel cloths. Now there are period underwear, menstrual cups, reusable pads, and more! Products like these are typically fragrance free. They also don’t include dyes or chlorine bleaching which can throw off your pH balance and cause infections. If you need any more of a reason to purchase reusable period products, then consider that they can help save some coins too! Instead of spending several dollars per month on disposable tampons and pads, you can make one purchase that lasts.

If you’re sold on reusable period products, then we can help you with your next step of actually making a purchase. Here are some products you should try.

Reusable Period Underwear

Lets start with an external form of reusable period products. Period underwear is perfect for people who don’t want to have anything inserted into them, but also don’t want to feel like they’re wearing a diaper. Another period underwear pro is that they do not pose many health risks. Some experts do worry that period underwear may irritate those with sensitive skin. Still, they may be a better option than traditional disposable pads for those with sensitivities. Thinx Period Underwear is made with a unique cotton blend that offers a more eco-friendly and cozy option for your period compared to our older cotton styles. This specific model is a slightly higher rise with moderate absorbency which is the equivalent to three tampons.

Menstrual Cup

$28.99
Photo Courtesy of Amazon

Menstrual cups are a great alternative to a tampon. If you don’t want to even deal with the mess that comes with pads or period underwear, reusable period products that you can insert are the way to go. Menstrual cups are long-lasting silicone cups that hold blood and prevent leaks. They can save you money because if you buy it once, it could last you a few years. Depending on your flow, most menstrual cups can stay in for 12 hours. If you’re new to menstrual cups, CORA’s The Easy-Does-It Cup is perfect because it’s made for beginners. Created with super-soft and flexible silicone, this cup lasts up to 12 hours and is reusable for up to ten years.

Menstrual Disk

$29.99
Photo Courtesy of Amazon

Menstrual disks are another alternative for inserted reusable period products. Typically, people ease their way into menstrual cups with a disk. Also, some people who have an IUD find that menstrual disks are more comfortable that a menstrual cup. Disk are wider and flatter in shape, and they do not rely on suction to stay in place. Becasue of this, some IUD users feel safer removing them without the risk of shifting or pulling out their IUD. The Cora Menstrual Disk is a one-size-fits-most product. It is made from soft medical-grade silicone and you can keep it in for up to 12 hours. It holds the equivalent of five to seven tampons without anything leaking during exercise, sleep, or even sex.

Reusable Pads

If you prefer wearing pads, then a reusable pad might be the best option for you. They are made from a variety of materials. Some companies are exploring the use of hemp and bamboo. Some are infused with activated charcoal for odor management. As opposed to disposable pads using adhesives, typically reusable pads have snap closures or use velcro to stay in place. If you have sensitive skin, then organic cotton is the best way to go. You can find that option in the Rael reusable pads. These pads are ultra-absorbent, with five total layers. They’re machine washable and you can wear them up to 120 times before you have to purchase another pack.

Reusable Period Activewear

$95.00
Photo Courtesy of Amazon

You may find that these options don’t work for you personally when it comes to physical activity. Don’t worry, there’s an option for that too. Some companies have designed period workout pants. They allow you to move freely while still offering full support. Thinx has an entire collection dedicated to activewear. These leggings are moderate absorbency which is equivalent to about three tampons. If your cramps are really giving you trouble on a particular day, these come a heating pad pocket in the front for relief.

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