Guest Blog: TOTM on choosing the right period care for you

We understand that changing your period care and trying something new can be daunting. If you’re keen to switch to sustainable period products but don’t know where to start then this blog is for you!

Choosing the right period product for you will depend on several factors such as your flow, lifestyle, budget and personal preferences. To find the best option for you, it’s important to consider the following;

• How heavy is your flow?
• How often do you need to change your products?
• Are you comfortable with inserting products (e.g. tampons or a menstrual cup) or would you prefer to use products externally? (e.g. pads, liners or period underwear.)
• Do you prefer single use products or something reusable?
• What is your budget?

You may even want to try out a few products to see what works best for you. From reusable menstrual cups to organic cotton pads, tampons and liners, we’re giving you all the details to help you make an informed decision about choosing the right period care for you!

Organic cotton pads, tampons and liners

If you’re wanting to switch up your period care but don’t want to stray too far from your usual products or routines, then you may want to try organic cotton period care.

Organic cotton products are made from 100% organic cotton that is grown sustainably without the use of pesticides or synthetic fertilisers. Good quality organic cotton period care products (like those made from TOTM) are typically free from fragrance, dyes, superabsorbent polymers (SAP) and other potentially harmful chemicals that can cause irritation or discomfort.

Mainstream disposable products can contain up to 90% plastic alongside ingredients such as fragrance, chlorine bleach or titanium dioxide which can be absorbed into the bloodstream when inserted into the vagina or placed against the vulval area. These ingredients can impact your vaginal pH balance which could result in itchiness or thrush. Plasticizers like parabens or BPA can be added to make pads softer and more flexible but these are chemicals which can mimic hormones like oestrogen.

Organic cotton has a natural softness that you can’t find in synthetic materials, it’s super comfortable to wear, especially in the delicate vaginal/vulval areas. It’s breathable and naturally absorbent keeping skin drier which can help prevent irritation and rashes.

Most organic cotton products are often biodegradable and compostable, making them a good, eco-friendly alternative to traditional disposable products. However, not all organic cotton pads and tampons are made equal - to make the right choice for you be sure to read the ingredients. If you’re looking for products made with certified organic cotton from cover to core, check out our range here.

Menstrual cups

Menstrual cups are reusable menstrual products made from medical-grade materials like silicone or TPE (like TOTM’s menstrual up). To use a cup, you insert it into your vagina to collect your blood. They can be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on how heavy your flow is, and can last several years when properly cared for. Menstrual cups are eco-friendly, cost-effective in the long run, and comfortable to wear.

If you’re new to menstrual cups, they can be tricky to insert and remove. It can take some practice and time to get used to a cup – on average 3 menstrual cycles. We recommend trying your cup for the first time at home, try to remain relaxed and try out different folds to find out which one feels most comfortable and secure. If you don’t get on with a menstrual cup then don’t be too hard on yourself, there are many reasons that a cup may not work for you personally. It may be you need to try a cup made from a different material or shape if you aren’t getting on with one.