There are various options to contain the blood during your menstrual period, such as tampons, sanitary towels and menstrual cups.
Sanitary towel
A sanitary towel is a small insert that you wear in your underwear. It has an adhesive strip on the underside, so it stays put. You can buy sanitary towels in different sizes, shapes and absorbencies.
Change the sanitary towel regularly every few hours or when it is full.
Tampon
A tampon is a small cotton tube with a thread in it. The tampon is inserted into the vagina, while the thread hangs out from the vagina. You can buy tampons in different sizes.
Change the tampon regularly after a few hours or when it is full. To remove the tampon, gently pull it out by the thread.
You can choose whether you want to use tampons or sanitary towels. If you are worried that your hymen might tear you can use sanitary towels.
Menstrual cup
The menstrual cup looks a bit like a chalice. It is made of medical silicone or latex. A menstrual cup is inserted into the vagina. It does not absorb the blood, but rather collects it. Remove the menstrual cup, empty it, rinse it and reinsert it.
In case of pain
Pains in the abdomen or low back is common during menstrual periods. If the pains are affecting your daily life and activities you may:
- take pain killers; you can buy simple pain killers from the pharmacy without a prescription,
- place a heat pad or a hot water bottle on your stomach or on your back,
- work out or do some relaxation exercises,
- start taking hormonal contraception.
You should contact your general practitioner if these advices do not help.
Sexual intercourse
Some women want to have sexual intercourse during their menstrual period, others do not. Having sexual intercourse during your period is not harmful.
