Period products 101

Pads, tampons, cups, discs, pants — what they are, who they suit, and how to actually use them.

The starting line

There is no single "best" period product. There is the one that suits your flow, your day, and your body right now — and that often changes through your life.

The five families

Pads — stick to your underwear. Easy to start, great overnight.
Tampons — inserted, absorb internally. Discreet and sport-friendly.
Cups — silicone, reusable, up to 12 hours.
Discs — sit higher than a cup, sex-compatible.
Period pants — look like normal underwear, absorbent fabric built in.

How to choose

Take the 60-second quiz — it scores your answers and suggests a starting point. Bodies change. Try two.

Red flags

If you bleed through your usual product in under 2 hours for more than a day, book a GP appointment.