7 types of absorbent and how to use each one

Every month menstruation knocks on women’s doors, in some more subtly, in others with a real beating. Of course, each woman goes through this moment differently, but everyone needs to use a pad. And make no mistake, there are many different types of pads.

This variety in types of absorbent aims to make the menstrual cycle simpler, natural, free, comfortable and safe.

Furthermore, this variety exists to help all different types of women, from those who opt for the more traditional, to those who are more concerned about the environment.

What absorbent do you use? Before answering me, check out all the types available on the market to ensure you don’t change your option!

7 types of pads – and how to use them!

1 – External absorbent

Found in any pharmacy or supermarket, with a huge variety of brands, external absorbent pads are certainly the most popular of all.

They are usually made of cotton with a plastic and adhesive layer. This is to fix it to the panties and prevent menstrual blood from staining the clothes. Additionally, some increase absorption capacity and minimize the sensation of wetness on the vulva.

It’s important to know whether your flow is light, moderate or heavy to choose the ideal external absorbent. Also, take into consideration the type of underwear you wear.

Also choose the type of coverage that can be secawhich prevents the sensation of moisture in the vulva region, but can cause allergies and irritation, or suavewhich is softer and more comfortable, but does not prevent the sensation of moisture in the vulva region.

Finally, the external absorbent is disposable and cannot be reused.

How to use

The external absorbent can be used:

2 – Tampon

The tampon, or simply tampon, is discreet, perfect for moments of leisure – especially if these moments involve water, such as the beach or pool.

They are made from cotton tubes, placed inside the female organ.

Many women don’t change their tampon for anything. In contrast, other women experience discomfort or are unable to insert or remove the tampon easily.

Above all, when the flow is very large, the ideal is to use it in conjunction with the external absorbent.

Furthermore, women who use tampons are more likely to have stained pants.

How to use

First, to use it, start by washing your hands to avoid infections or bringing bacteria to the intimate area. Then, unwind the cord and stretch it. Place your index finger on the base of the pad, separate the lips of the female organ with one hand and with the other, gently push the pad inside the genital area.

Above all, do this however you see fit: standing, with your legs supported on a high place, squatting or sitting.

3 – Menstrual collector

The collector, also called a menstrual cup, is a great alternative to replacing the absorbent during menstruation.

Its main qualities are that it is comfortable, economical and environmentally friendly. In addition to being reusable, it is very easy to clean. Its useful life can reach 10 years.

Furthermore, the proliferation of bacteria is lower because the blood is not in direct contact with the skin.

In short, it is a small flexible silicone container, placed inside the female organ.

The menstrual cup can be found in various sizes and needs to be chosen according to your age and type of menstrual flow.

How to use

Before putting it on, wash your hands well and clean the collector. Then, find the most comfortable position, fold the collector, insert it into the female genital entrance and turn the collector so that it opens and generates the vacuum. It can be used for 12 hours straight without needing to be changed.

4 – Absorbent panties

Absorbent panties are made with three layers of fabric: one interna, avoiding direct contact with the skin; one intermediate, where the blood is stored; is externaso that the flow does not leak.

It is washable and reusable, and because it fits better to the body, it tends to provide more comfort and convenience.

It works best for women with light flow. For women with heavy flow, the ideal is to combine it with the menstrual cup.

How to use

To use it is simple: just put on your panties and change them every day after 10 hours. If the flow is a little more intense, change it every 5 hours.

5 – Absorbent sponge

Absorbent sponges are practical, easy and free from products that cause irritation and allergies. They have various sizes that should be chosen depending on the intensity of the menstrual flow.

This product is not yet very popular in Brazil, being better known and used in Europe. But don’t worry, you will find it in some pharmacies, markets and on the internet.

How to use

Initially, the sponges are introduced into the female genital region, as deep as possible. You can choose whatever position you want, as long as it is the most comfortable for you. It can be used for up to 8 hours straight. But remember, it doesn’t have a pull string, which can make it difficult to remove.

6 – Fabric absorbent

The fabric absorbent, also known as ecological absorbent, is the best friend of women and nature. Among the types of absorbent, this is the most ecological of all.

The fabric absorbent is washable, made of a waterproof outer layer and an inner layer of cotton fabric. It can be washed and reused, generating less waste. Furthermore, as it is made of cotton, it helps keep the intimate area more ventilated.

How to use

It can be used in the same way as the others, and it is recommended that it be positioned in the center of the panties and then its flaps be buttoned to prevent them from moving out of place. Normally, it can be changed every 6 hours.

7 – Daily protector

The daily protector is smaller than the others, and is also thinner and has less absorption capacity. Consequently, its use is recommended on the first day or last day of the menstrual period, since the flow is not intense.

Frequent use of this type of pad makes the intimate area more humid and warm, favoring the development of infections as it does not allow air circulation.

How to use

Place this absorbent in the center of the panties and that’s it. It must be changed at most every 4 hours.

Did you understand how to use all types of pads? So maybe you want to learn other ways to use these same absorbents presented by clicking here!