Period products: your choices
Different products work in different ways. You can start simple and change later.
- Disposable pads — Stick to underwear and are put in a bin after use.
- Reusable pads — Attach to underwear, then are washed and used again.
- Period pants — Reusable underwear that absorbs period blood.
- Tampons — Go inside the vagina and absorb period blood.
- Cups and discs — Go inside the vagina and collect blood, then are emptied.
There is no “best” product for everyone. Choose what feels safe, comfortable and possible for you.
Quick answer
Period products are things that absorb or collect period blood. Different people use different products, and you do not have to use the same one as your friends.
The main types of period products
The main choices include disposable pads, reusable pads, period pants, tampons, menstrual cups and menstrual discs.
| Product | How it works | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Pads | Stick or fasten to the inside of underwear and absorb blood outside the body. | Some pads are disposable and some are reusable. They are often a simple first product because nothing goes inside the vagina. |
| Period pants | Look like underwear and have absorbent layers to soak up blood. | Reusable. They need to be washed and dried before using again. |
| Tampons | Go inside the vagina and absorb blood before it leaves the body. | Use the lowest absorbency you need and change by 4 hours. |
| Menstrual cups | Go inside the vagina and collect blood instead of absorbing it. | Reusable. They can take practice and must be cleaned properly. |
| Menstrual discs | Go inside the vagina and collect blood in a slightly different position from a cup. | Some are reusable and some are disposable. Ask for help if you are unsure how to use or clean them safely. |
Do I have to use an internal product?
No. Internal products are products that go inside the vagina, such as tampons, cups or discs. You never have to use one if you do not want to.
Many young people start with pads or period pants because they are easier to understand at first. Others may choose tampons or cups later. Your choice can change over time.
How do I choose?
- Start with something that feels manageable.
- Think about your flow: light, medium or heavy.
- Think about where you will be: school, sport, sleepover or home.
- Ask a trusted adult to help if you are unsure.
- Stop using a product if it hurts or feels wrong.
What if I cannot get products?
You deserve access to period products. Ask a trusted adult, school nurse, teacher, youth worker or community support service. You should not have to miss school or activities because you do not have products.
Ask Luma
You could ask: “What period product should I try first?” or “What is the difference between pads, period pants and tampons?”
Final reassurance
There is no perfect product you have to choose forever. You can start simple, learn slowly and choose what works for your body, your day and your comfort.
Developer source note
Content is grounded in NHS period product guidance, NHS toxic shock syndrome guidance, UNICEF menstrual health and hygiene principles, and the user-supplied BBC News link for current public discussion of period products. Final live pages should keep source links in the CMS or editorial notes.