Sustainable Period Power: Introducing Your Mighty Girl to Reusable Menstrual Products

Before you start talking to your Mighty Girl about different menstrual products, encourage her to think a bit about what she likes and doesn't like about the product that she's using now, and how she plans to use her period products in the future. Then, you can start talking about her options! For each option, we'll lay out some important points to consider, as well as some pros and cons.

Reusable Cloth Pads

Generations of women have used cloth period products, but today's cloth pads are very different from the menstrual rags and belts of the past! Modern materials have more absorbency and moisture-resistant layers, while improved fasteners (including both snaps and Velcro) make it easier for girls to get pads to stay put.

Key Questions:

• What absorbency do you need? Choose a cloth pad that suits your flow, and keep in mind that heavy flow days may require pad changes.
• Are you very active? Cloth pads may shift more than adhesive ones, but they will also be softer on your skin and may be less likely to cause chafing.
• Are you a gymnast or dancer who wears a leotard? If so, consider if you'll use cloth pads during these activities, or if you'll want an alternative method.

Pros:

• Cloth pads last a long time. Most cloth pad manufacturers expect their pads to last at least 2 years, and many women use them far longer than that.
• Cloth pads come in a variety of sizes, lengths, and absorbency; by buying a selection of them, you can choose the product that's perfect for each day's needs and flow.
• Cloth pads feel softer against your skin, which many girls love; girls with autism or sensory sensitivities may particularly appreciate the feel of cloth.
• Cloth pads are cute! They come in a huge array of colors, patterns, and designs. You can even learn to sew your own if you want a customized pad that's just your style.

Cons:

• You will need to buy or make enough pads for one full cycle, or you have to plan to do a wash before they run out.
• When you change a cloth pad away from home, you need to carry the used pad with you; plan on bringing a waterproof bag or pouch for when you change pads.

Menstrual Cups

Menstrual cups are a comparatively new option for managing menstruation; they use a flexible cup inside the vagina to catch period flow. Cups are available in a wide variety of sizes and several choices of material. When cared for properly, a single cup can last for years, and because it's used internally, you can easily wear one for swimming or other activities where you prefer a tampon.

Key Questions:

• Are you comfortable with an insertable period product? Menstrual cups are put in like a tampon, and you'll use a stem or ring to remove them.
• Are you allergic to latex? If so, make sure you look only at menstrual cups made entirely of silicone.
• If you have a heavy flow, are you willing to empty a menstrual cup in a public washroom?
• Are you willing and able to wash your cup between insertions and sterilize it when your cycle is done?

Pros:

• Reusable cups last a long time: at least a year, with some brands lasting longer.
• You can wear a menstrual cup for much longer than a tampon or pad — up to 12 hours.
• Silicone cups are hypoallergenic, so they're a highly recommended option if you have allergies or skin sensitivities.
• Menstrual cups are suitable for water sports and other sports where an internal product is preferable.

Cons:

• There is a learning curve! You will have to practice how to insert and remove the cup.
• You may need to try more than one size, shape, and brand of cup to find the best one for you; many users have to try two or more cups before they find the perfect fit.
• Emptying and cleaning a cup away from home can be a bit awkward, especially for girls who are new to periods.
• You need to clean the cup properly by rinsing it, either at the sink or with a bottle of water into the toilet, before reinsertion, and some cups need sterilization after each cycle.

Period Underwear

Period underwear takes a familiar item and adds menstrual protection, making it an easy way for many girls to manage their periods. Period underwear can be worn as your only period product on light to medium flow days, and they can also be used as backup if you're worried about a pad shifting or a tampon or cup leaking.

Key Questions:

• Will you wear period underwear alone, or do you plan to use it in combination with another period product?
• Are you comfortable with changing period underwear midway through the day on a heavier flow day?

Pros:

• Wearing period underwear is as easy as... well, putting on a pair of underwear.
• Period underwear is a great option in the days leading up to your expected period, or near the end of your cycle, when you're worried about unexpected flow.
• Girls who don't like the feeling of pads often find period underwear feels thinner and softer on their skin.

Cons:

• Even high absorbency period underwear may not be up to a full day of heavy flow. You may need to plan to change your period underwear partway through a day (and bring a waterproof bag for the used ones.)
• Period underwear may feel more "wet" than a fast-absorbing pad; although many versions include a fast-wicking layer to minimize wetness.