Buying period products can be overwhelming! This guide is intended to help folks who just started their cycle or for partners who are buying menstrual products for someone in their life for the first time.
Together we will dive into the world of period product shopping, focusing on pads and tampons. The goal is to cover everything you need to know to make safe, informed choices to support healthy periods.
Understanding Pads and Tampons for Beginners
Not all pads and tampons are created equal! Many brands do not disclose their full ingredient list and may use unnecessary chemicals such as bleach, dyes, and toxic irritating fragrances.
Some menstrual products, especially non-organic options, have been found to contain trace amounts of chemicals such as titanium dioxide, PFAS, pesticides and synthetic fragrances, which can act as endocrine disruptors in high enough quantities. Endocrine disruptors are substances that can potentially interfere with hormone regulation, though the effects of these chemicals in menstrual products and their long-term impacts remain an area of active research.
Given that the average person with a uterus will experience around 3,500 days of menstruation in their lifetime—amounting to approximately 11,400 pads or tampons—it's important to be mindful of product choice when it comes to quality and composition.
The vaginal wall has a higher permeability than other skin areas, which means that substances in menstrual products can be more readily absorbed into the bloodstream. While the health impacts of long-term exposure to certain chemicals are still being studied, opting for high-quality menstrual products may help minimize potential risks and support overall well-being.
Types of Absorbency
Now that we understand the importance of ingredients, let's dive into understanding pad and tampon absorbency. When it comes to menstrual products, L and R do not mean left or right. On most pad and tampon packages you will see a singular letter like “R” or a term like “Regular” which refers to the product’s absorbency.
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Tampons Pads |
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L = Light L = Liner |
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R = Regular R = Regular |
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S = Super S = Super |
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S+ = Super Plus O = Overnight |
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I = Incontinence |
The type of pad or tampon used depends on the person’s blood flow during their menstrual cycle. If you’re unsure, ask for your partner’s preference or look for a multi-pack!
When shopping for pads and tampons, here’s what to look out for on the product packaging:
Transparency in Ingredients: In the United States, pads and tampons are classified as medical devices by the FDA (3), so they aren't required to disclose ingredients on packaging. If an ingredient list isn't provided, it may raise questions about transparency. To minimize potential exposure to unknown chemicals, consider looking for products made with 100% certified organic materials and without added fragrances.
Certifications: Keep an eye out for reputable certifications, such as USDA Organic, B Corp, and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This will indicate that the product meets specific health and safety standards.
Remember, there are no silly questions when it comes to menstrual products! Health and comfort matter, and making informed choices is the first step.
About the Author: Elyse Mattarollo
Elyse is completing her studies as a Certified Holistic Nutritionist, passionate about educating the community on the foundations of hormonal health.