Happy Wellness Wednesday, Sistas! 💖
Even though the entire Garden is dedicated to women’s health & wellness, I wanted to talk specifically to the ladies this month about a few topics that are often treated as taboo… Menstrual & Vaginal Health!
Our bodies are not taboo topics, so we should be able to speak openly and confidently about our experiences and needs.
So, let's get into it!
Menstrual Products Overview
I’ll be covering 5 products today—this does not mean there aren’t more options on the market.
External options (Used outside of the body)
Pads
Full-Coverage Cloth options that go inside of underwear
Must be changed every few hours or when it is soaked (depends on your flow)
Pantyliners
Light Coverage cloth options that also go in the underwear for pre- or post-period support, or additional coverage when using an internal product like a tampon or menstrual cup.
Can be changed every few hours or whenever a fresh option is desired
Period Underwear
Replace your normal underwear during your cycle
Can be changed once daily for those with a lighter flow
Should be changed more often, or supported with another menstrual product for those with a heavier flow.
Each pair comes with guidance on its capacity
Internal Options (Inserted into the vagina)
Menstrual Cups or Discs
Silicone Full-coverage option that collects blood as it flows
There are reusable and disposable options
Can be worn for up to 12 hours, but may need to be changed sooner for heavier flows
Reusable cups are boiled for sterilization at the start of each menstrual cycle and then washed between uses throughout the cycle
Most cups have 2 size options
Size 2 or the larger size is usually recommended for those who have had children (regardless of birthing method) and those over 30
However, you may need to do some trial-and-error to find your perfect fit.
Tampons
Cotton Full-coverage option that absorbs blood as it flows
Can be word for up to 8 hours, but should NOT be word longer due to the possibility of Toxic Shock Syndrome – a life threatening condition!
These are “sized” based on the level of absorbance, so if you plan to use tampons for the full length of your cycle, you may need to buy more than one option.
Levels are usually:
Light, regular, and super
Tips to Shop for Healthier Products
Any cloth product you use should…
Use organic cotton
100% for pads & tampons
As the primary ingredient for period panties
Be fragrance-free
Tampons, Pads + Pantyliners should be...
Unbleached or at least chlorine-free
Plastic-free packaging where possible (Tampons)
Menstrual Cups should...
Be made of 100% medical-grade silicone
Not have been dyed
Period Panties should NOT be...
“antimicrobial” or “antibacterial”
Want to shop with me and learn more?
Check out this week’s video as we kick off this month’s series with…
Refreshing your Menstrual Cycle: Choosing Healthier Products
I hope you enjoy this week’s video! Be sure to like, subscribe, and share with a friend!
Have a healthy & wholesome week 🌸
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Disclaimer
I am here to empower you to take charge of your health and wellness journey, and to equip you with knowledge and information to help you be successful. I am simply a peer who has done the research so you don’t have to, but I am NOT a licensed medical professional and TGOE is NOT meant to prevent, diagnose, treat, or cure any disease, nor is it designed to replace advice you receive from your healthcare provider. Please be sure to do your own follow up research and/or work with your trusted medical personnel before making any major changes. 💕
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