A picture of a 15-year-old boy from the US clutching sanitary pads and saying he wants to help girls with periods has gone viral. Many people with vaginas have been brought up to experience shame around our menstruation. Committee Member - MNF Research Advisory Committee, PhD Scholarship - Uncle Isaac Brown Indigenous Scholarship. If youre prone to waking up to sheets that resemble a crime scene, then the biggest pad with wings is probably at the top of the list. People believe that gender equality is improving, but the rest of the data tells a different story. Your choice of sanitary products actually has an effect on your menstrual cramps. Additionally, some female swimmers will choose to refrain from swimming during their period altogether, opting for other forms of physical activity such as yoga or light running. It is also suggested that menstrual cups are a better alternative for reducing the risk of TSS and other infections. This article was medically reviewed by Irena Cabrera, MD, OBGYN at. Why we prefer sanitary pads to tampons - Nigerian women Instead of segregating ourselves into pad and tampons camps, or even other hygiene products like diva cups and Thinx, we can build a common cultural conversation around the issues that really matter: Ruined underwear, painful cramps, or accidentally bleeding all over your office chair while you're at work. They're also less visible under clothing. No Tampons, No Problem: Alternative Products for Female Travelers It is very common for people to struggle when first putting in a tampon, especially for those who were not properly taught how to do it. It served as a quiet tale of tampon use. She also sent a broader message that elite sport and menstruation can coexist. Washable Pads. Carry disinfecting wipes with you in case blood gets on other surfaces. Luckily, with a few simple guidelines, both pads and tampons are highly safe. Ultimately, the choice is up to you. However, those who have sensitive internal organs and/or sensitivities to tampon products may find that tampons make cramps more painful. No, free bleeding does not make your period end faster. If you still struggle, you may want to visit a healthcare provider or take a class to learn more about proper insertion and to build your confidence. Let's start by explaining what each one is. For a lighter flow, get washable pantyliners, and for a heavier flow go for larger maxi pads.