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Thanks to the different and increasingly numerous hygienic devices available on the market, it is now even easier to face the arrival of the period. In addition to the traditional external absorbents, which however pollute and can cause allergies, girls and women of all ages can in fact opt for equally valid and above all eco-friendly alternatives.
Among the best known is the menstrual cup, now much appreciated for its comfort and practicality. But there are also other types of sanitary pads that can meet the needs of each. Let’s find out what they are and why to choose them.
Which ones are they
The classic external absorbents have the peculiarity of be disposable and also contain some plastic parts, which contribute to environmental pollution. But if you wanted to wear something just as comfortable, but reusable and therefore also ecological? It is possible, thanks to the following hygienic devices.
Ecological absorbents
They are the photocopy of the tampons that we all know, with the one big difference that they are compostable. This means they can be thrown into the wet as they decompose in a few months. And this because of the natural materials with which they are made. So they do not produce pollution as they do not contain materials such as plastic, and keep irritation and allergies away.
Washable sanitary pads
These are similar to traditional pads in shape – even if they are attached to the slip via a small button – but different in materials. They are often in cotton or in any case in breathable materials, so they can be washed over and over again, and thus also last for a long time. They also ensure a high degree of comfort when they come into contact with the skin.
The washable pads are available in different sizes (S, M, L, XL), to be used according to the type of flow. For an abundant one, for example, one could evaluate an L or XL.
Menstrual cup
It has probably already happened that you have seen it and heard about it, because there are so many girls and women who praise it. The shape is that of a small funnel to be inserted into the vagina to collect the menstrual cycle flow. In addition, the medical silicone (hypoallergenic) with which it is made, gives it flexibility and practicality. The suction cup top ensures the flow (even abundant) to remain inside the device.
It is a sanitary device that it can last for several years, just use it correctly. The menstrual cup must be sterilized with boiling water on the first and last use of each menstrual cycle. It must then be emptied, rinsed and inserted again when necessary. All this after having, of course, thoroughly sanitized your hands.
There may be cases where the its use is not recommended, for example if you often suffer from vaginal infections or if you use some contraceptive methods such as the IUD. In these cases, the advice to be supported by the gynecologist remains valid.
Menstrual disc
The menstrual disc is very similar to the menstrual cup as it is inserted inside the vagina. Unlike the cup, which is narrower and taller, the disc has a larger diameter and is a little lower and therefore less capacious.
Even the positioning of devices is different: if the cup is to be positioned in the vaginal canal (in fact, it must be inserted taking into account a height of about half a finger), the disc must be inserted more in depth in the vagina, near the cervix (the device must therefore be pushed to the bottom of the vaginal canal with the whole finger), leaving the vaginal canal free.
Unlike the cup, which once inserted completely occupies the vaginal canal remaining in a fixed position, the menstrual disc allows penetration and therefore to be used during sexual intercourse.
Menstrual sponge
Here is another tampon to insert into the vaginal canal: the menstrual sponge. It is a synthetic or natural origin sponge, which you can find both in the disposable and washable version and which is able to easily adapt to the shape of the body. It is easy to insert and take out as it requires the same dexterity required to insert the tampon: just push it in with your finger a little and then pull it off after 2-4 hours, depending on the flow. Again, the particular advantage is that you can have sexual intercourse wearing the device. You can choose different sizes, considering the quantity of the flow. It should be rinsed and washed with cold water.
Absorbent underwear
They are real briefs, but in addition they have three layers, one of which is very absorbent, which allows the flow to be collected for a few hours. It is therefore about underwear to all intents and purposes it can be purchased in different sizes and absorbency capacities. Then just wash the panty with a mild detergent (preferably by hand) to preserve its durability over time. In case of doubt, it is preferable to consult the label of the garment.
Why choose them
We have seen how many alternatives to classic sanitary napkins are easily available and affordable. That’s why it may be worth considering and using them:
- they are ecological, therefore they do not pollute the environment;
- they are easy to use or in any case just a little practice is enough;
- allow a economic saving. It is true that perhaps at first glance, some of these pads may seem more expensive than traditional ones. In reality, the savings are visible over time: the cup, the sponge, the disc, the underwear, are in fact absorbents that can be used for months if not years. Therefore, the initial “higher” cost is not only amortized in a short time, but there is a considerable saving subsequently;
- counteract allergies and intolerances;
- they can be used while traveling, in the pool, at the sea;
- they are comfortable and designed to adapt to the body with ease.
The choice of one type of sanitary pad over another depends mainly on theuse that you want to make of it and the type of flow (if more or less abundant). In case of doubts about the most suitable tampon for your needs or even to have support on how to insert and remove the internal ones, the advice is to ask your gynecologist.
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