Feminine hygiene

A sanitary napkin with wings

The elements of a tampon with applicator. Left: the bigger tube ("penetrator"). Center: cotton tampon with attached string. Right: the narrower tube.

Reusable cloth menstrual pad with Kokopelli motif.

A menstrual cup

Menstrual panty

Disposable:

• Pantyliner: Sticks to the inside of underwear to absorb blood and uterine lining during menstruation, sometimes worn with a tampon or for light discharge.[4][5]
• Sanitary napkin (pad): Can be worn on the inside of underwear to absorb a heavier menstrual flow. Available in many different absorbencies and lengths, with or without wings.[6][7][8]
• Tampon: Inserted inside the vagina to absorb menstrual blood, can also be used while swimming. Available in different levels of absorbency.[9][10][11]

Reusable:

• Menstrual cup: Inserted inside the vagina to catch blood/uterine lining.[12]
• Cloth menstrual pad: Worn inside underwear.[13]
• Period panties: Absorbent underwear.[14]
• Menstrual sponge: Inserted like a tampon or cup and worn inside the body.[15]

• Douches: A fluid used to flush out the inside of the vagina.[16][17]
• Feminine wipes: A moist, sometimes scented cloth used to wipe the vulva.[18]
• Unscented soap: A gentle way to wash the vulva to minimize the risk of irritation.[19]

Menstrual hygiene product dispenser

Tampon tax is a shorthand for sales tax charged on tampons, pads, and menstrual cups. The cost of these commercial products for menstrual management is considered to be unacceptably high for many low-income women. At least half a million women across the world do not have enough money to adequately afford these products. This can result in missing school or even dropping out. In some jurisdictions similar necessities like medical devices and toilet paper are not taxed. Several initiatives worldwide advocate to eliminate the tax all together. In some countries, such petitions have already been successful (for example parts of the UK and the United States).[33][34][35]

The Federal bureau of Prisons in the United States announced that women in its facilities would be guaranteed free menstrual pads and tampons. In section 411 of the First Step Act which was passed on May 22, 2018 states, "The Director of the Bureau of Prisons shall make the healthcare products described in subsection (c) available to prisoners for free, in a quantity that is appropriate to the healthcare needs of each prisoner".[36]

For those with autism, using pads before menstruation begins may help reduce sensory issues associated with menstrual hygiene products. Prior education and practice may help familiarize an individual with body changes and the process of using products associated with menstruation.[37]

Menstruation may occur despite paralyzation; product use depends on the individual's personal preference.[38]

Some girls and women may view tampons and menstrual cups as affecting their virginity even though they have not engaged in sexual intercourse.[39]

• Cup[40]
• Pad[40]
• Panty[40]
• Sponges[40][41]
• Nothing[41]
• Sheep's wool[41]
• Underwear[41]
• Raw cotton[41]
• Sanitary belt & napkin holder[41]
• Crocheted sanitary napkins[41]
• Clouts[41]
• No belt[41]
• Baby diapers[41]

• Plants[42]