Periods are a natural part of life, but it remains a topic that is often overlooked in workplace and public facility planning. With increasing awareness and advocacy for period positivity, there is a greater push to making period products more accessible, convenient, and sustainable. From traditional sanitary pads to modern period product dispensers, understanding the full range of feminine care options helps ensure comfort, hygiene, and inclusivity for all.
Different Types of Period Products
There is a wide range of period products available to suit different preferences and needs. Below are some of the most commonly used period care solutions:
1) Sanitary Pads
Sanitary pads are one of the most widely used feminine care products. These absorbent materials stick to underwear and are meant to be worn externally. They come in various sizes and thicknesses to cater to different menstrual flows. Some pads also feature wings for extra security while others are made with organic cotton for sustainability. Pads are easy to use but must be changed every few hours to maintain hygiene.
2) Panty Liners
Panty liners are thin, lightweight pads used for light flow days, spotting, or backup protection when using tampons or menstrual cups.
3) Tampons
Tampons are small, cylindrical plugs made from cotton or synthetic materials that are designed to be inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual flow. They come with or without applicators and are available in different absorbencies to suit varying flow levels. Tampons offer more discreet protection compared to pads and are a popular choice for active individuals. However, they must be changed every 3 to 4 hours to avoid risks like Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
4) Menstrual Cups
Made from medical-grade silicone or rubber, menstrual cups are reusable devices that collect menstrual flow rather than absorb it. They can last for years with proper care, making them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to disposable products. Cups require emptying and cleaning every 8 to 12 hours depending on flow.
5) Period Underwear
Period underwear is another menstrual care product that has gained popularity as a sustainable option. Designed with built-in absorbent layers, they provide leak-proof protection that can hold light to heavy flows, depending on the design. They can be washed and reused, making them an environmentally friendly choice.
6) Reusable Cloth Pads
Reusable cloth pads function like disposable sanitary pads but are made from washable fabric. They offer an eco-friendly alternative and help reduce plastic waste in landfills.
7) Menstrual Discs
Menstrual discs sit at the base of the cervix and collect menstrual blood in a similar way to period cups but with a flatter design. They offer up to 12 hours of protection and are suitable for those who prefer less frequent changes.
Choosing the Right Period Products
Each type of period product has its unique benefits, so individuals may need to try a few options before finding what works best for them. Selecting the right period product is a personal choice. Factors to consider include:
- Level of flow: Choose products with appropriate absorbency to avoid leaks. Super pads or menstrual cups may provide better protection for heavy flows, while regular pads, tampons, or reusable underwear work well for light days.
- Comfort: Opt for products that feel comfortable and don’t cause irritation.
- Lifestyle needs: Tampons, period cups, or menstrual discs offer more flexibility for those with more active lifestyles.
- Environmental impact: Consider the environmental impact of your choices and explore reusable options.
- Accessibility: Ensure easy access to your preferred products.
Period Care Dispensers: Accessible and Discreet Options
Period care dispensers play a vital role in providing access to period products in public settings. These dispensers come in various designs, often seen as vending machines, wall-mounted units, or boxes that provide access to a variety of period products such as pads and tampons.
A period care dispenser is a vital addition to schools, workplaces, public restrooms, and other communal areas, ensuring that menstrual products are readily available when needed.
Benefits of Period Product Dispensers
- Accessibility: Dispensers ensure that tampons, pads, or other products are readily available when needed most.
- Improved hygiene: Providing clean and safe products helps maintain proper menstrual hygiene, reducing health risks.
- Promote inclusivity: Offering free or low-cost products in public spaces sends a message that menstruation is normal and supported.
- Convenience: Individuals no longer need to carry backup supplies everywhere or worry about unexpected periods.
- Reduced stigma: Visible dispensers help normalise menstruation by addressing it as a routine part of life.
How Period Care Dispensers Promote Inclusivity
The presence of period care dispensers in public spaces fosters inclusivity by addressing feminine hygiene needs across all demographics:
- Gender Equality: Providing free or affordable menstrual products ensures everyone has equal opportunities to participate in society without period-related barriers.
- Educational Access: Students with access to period products at school are less likely to miss classes due to lack of supplies.
- Workplace Support: Employees feel valued when workplaces provide essential items like tampons or pads in restrooms.
- Community Empowerment: Public facilities equipped with dispensers create a supportive environment that acknowledges menstruation as a normal biological process.
By challenging societal taboos around periods, these dispensers contribute to greater awareness and acceptance.
Creating a Period-Positive Environment
Encouraging period positivity in workplaces, schools, and public spaces fosters a supportive and stigma-free environment. Here’s how organisations can contribute:
- Provide free period products: Just as toilet paper and soap are necessities, so are period care products.
- Install period care dispensers: Make feminine care dispensers available in restrooms.
- Educate and raise awareness: Offer workshops and resources on menstrual health.
- Encourage open conversations: Reduce stigma by normalising discussions around menstrual care.
- Support sustainable choices: Offer eco-friendly products in period dispensers.
Accessible period products are essential for personal hygiene, dignity, and inclusivity. By ensuring that feminine care products are available in workplaces, schools, and public spaces through period care dispensers, organisations can contribute to a healthier and more supportive environment. As awareness around period positivity continues to grow, so does the responsibility to make menstrual care accessible and sustainable for all.
