A Pelvic Floor PT’s Guide to Period Products
As pelvic floor specialists, we often find ourselves having conversations about period products. Pads, tampons, cups, discs, underwear—there’s so much to consider! For many of our clients—especially those with pelvic floor dysfunction—figuring out what works can be challenging. For example, if insertion causes pain or discomfort, products like tampons or cups might not be a good fit.
Thankfully, there are so many period products available today. With a bit of guidance and possibly some trial and error, we’re confident you’ll find the right option for your body. Our Period Products Guide is designed to make your options clear and help you choose the best solution for you.
How to Choose the Right Period Product
The key is finding something that matches your comfort level, lifestyle, and flow. Let’s break it down:
1. Can You Tolerate Vaginal Insertion?
Can you tolerate something inserted vaginally, or do you have a pelvic pain condition or other reasons why you may not want to or be able to insert a period product? If insertion isn’t an option, there are still plenty of choices!
Pads/liners and period underwear are great choices. These products don’t require any insertion and are very easy to use.
Be mindful of ingredients and materials. These products make direct contact with your body, so it’s important to choose materials and ingredients that are less likely to irritate your vulva. To avoid irritation, look for natural, unscented, unbleached, and chlorine-free products made from natural fibers (such as cotton or bamboo). While synthetic fibers absorb well, they are less breathable, so more moisture and irritation may occur.
Change your pad often. To prevent dampness and irritation, pads should be changed every 4-6 hours (sometimes more frequently).
Period underwear may be pricier to begin with, but they are washable, reusable, and available in various absorbency levels.
2. How Heavy is Your Menstrual Flow?
Your flow changes throughout your cycle, so having multiple products on hand can help.
Lighter days: Thinner liners/pads, smaller tampons, or period underwear.
Heavier days: Thicker pads, menstrual cups/discs, or larger tampons.
Trial and error are part of finding the right fit. Don’t be discouraged if it takes a few cycles to figure out what works for you!
3. What is Your Comfort Level with Handling Period Products?
Are you new to having your period or not as comfortable with your body? If so, certain products can be intimidating. For example, it may be easier to start with a tampon with an applicator and a string to pull out rather than a menstrual cup or disc.
Here are the key differences between a cup and a disc :
Menstrual Cups: These are bell-shaped and suction to your vaginal walls. They’re reusable, eco-friendly, and can hold more blood than a tampon. There may be some trial and error involved with inserting and removing them. Once placed, the cup suctions, so you will need to squeeze the cup or release the side of it to “break the seal” before wiggling it out.
Menstrual Discs: These are flexible, round, flat disks that sit just under the cervix. Like a cup, they are reusable and can hold more volume. However, they don’t use suction, so they may be easier to slide out (but the disc is usually a bit messier).
4. How Often Do I Need to Change or Empty a Product?
Every product is different, and it depends on your flow.
Pads: May need to be changed more often due to the damp material causing discomfort against the vulva. Every 2-6 hours, depending on the amount of menstrual blood.
Tampons: Must be changed every 4-6 hours, 8 hours max.
Cups and discs: Must be emptied or changed every 12 hours.
Period underwear: Typically can be worn for 8-12 hours.
Heavier flow? When your period is heavier, you will likely need to change your product more frequently to avoid leaks.
5. What’s the Environmental Impact?
If sustainability is important to you, consider reusable products like menstrual cups, discs, reusable cloth pads, and period underwear. Single-use natural fiber pads or tampons (such as organic cotton or bamboo) are also a better choice for the environment.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right period product is about finding what makes you feel most comfortable and confident. Everyone’s body is different, and what works best for you may not work for someone else. And if something isn’t working—try another! Don’t be discouraged if it takes a few cycles to figure out your best options.
If you have pelvic pain or other concerns that make periods challenging, request an appointment with us at Pelvic Health & Wellness. We’re here to help!
About Pelvic Health & Wellness
Pelvic Health & Wellness was built with you in mind. We practice whole-person, individualized pelvic floor physical therapy in a caring and safe environment. Our physical therapists specialize in treating pelvic health concerns such as pelvic floor dysfunction, pain, prolapse, constipation, incontinence, and various pregnancy and postpartum-related conditions.
We understand that being ready to talk about and address your pelvic floor wellness concerns comes from a place of strength. We are here to support and encourage you on your journey back to health so you can return to doing what you love! If you are ready to take the first step in reclaiming your pelvic health and wellness, don't hesitate to get in touch with us today.