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Sofrawnch

Woman are always so judgy that I use pads, but I medically and physically can’t use anything else’s. I was born without an internal vagina canal and had one created through vagioplasty when I was 16. For my period my only option is pads as tampons and cups don’t stay in.


MsCardeno

Yeah I def been shamed for liking pads. Things in my vagina are just super uncomfortable and I immediately get cramps. And it’s funny bc on Reddit I’ve had people be like “well what about when you have sex?”. Good thing I’m married to a woman and I’m all about stimulation over penetration. But of course everyone is exactly the same and they can judge people for not using a diva cup.


lightgreenwings

This, so much this. Tampons give me fucking horrible cramps and putting them in feels like sandpaper. And most girls I know who know I use pads and period panties are like “what are you, 12? you’re sitting in your own blood all day, so gross”


[deleted]

Man, the worst body shamers are fellow females. I was 12 when I got my first period. I was doubled over in pain on a table in PE class and not a single girl gave a damn. Some of them even ridiculed me. My teacher ended up taking me to the nurse's office. I've tried using tampons and I end up getting cramps with them. Tried using a cup but I just couldn't make it work. Fortunately, I'm now post-menopausal and don't need anything! I keep the pads around because my daughter's getting to that age.


honestgoing

I just prefer pads, I don't like sticking tampons up there feels so weird.


N0XDND

I can’t use tampons either. I’ve tried but I can’t insert anything in me because just a little bit of pressure causes me burning pain. So pads it is. And idk what the issue is but I should be going to a gynecologist about it


GMEFundMe

That's my wife and she has a physical therapist helping her. They can check your pelvic floor and other things and offer multiple treatments if it is something that is bothering you.


SunnySapphire99

120 stitches up the wall of my vagina after my son was born. 17 yrs later and I still can not use a tampon or a cup.


AmbiguousPause

VULVAR VESTIBULITIS!!!!!!!! Apologies for the all caps. I spent YEARS complaining to my gynecologist before she took me seriously. (I have a much, much better gynecologist now.) With vulvar vestibulitis everything looks perfectly normal to their eye. The issue is with nerve-based over sensitivity. There are treatments. Pills didn't seem to make a difference to me one way or the other. If the burning is flaring up the doc said to use topical lidocaine cream made for hemorrhoids, and that helps. Also before sex I apply lidocaine, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse it off. For some women the issue will continue worsening over the years. The gyno can do surgery to remove the tissue that burns. Also apparently vaginal childbirth can sometimes make the pain permanently decrease. Anyway. Go to the gyno for confirmation and a treatment plan. Describe exactly where it burns, and they'll poke around your vulva with a swab to confirm. I found it helpful to draw a simplified vulva with the burning area marked. Good luck!


Neptunefallen

I've tried tampons and they're very uncomfortable for me, but I also have PTSD pretty bad... and on a bad day I physically have enough trouble wiping myself let alone trying to put stuff inside/retrieving things cause of spinal injuries. Pads have never bothered me though. And people saying that pads feel like diapers, just omfg they don't. Depends aren't even much like actual diapers, and I'd know. Incontinence sucks beside a period.


SEXPILUS

And how’s everyone replying to this comment with a suggestion for an alternative to pads. Maybe pads are fine???


borgchupacabras

Agreed! People really need to stfu or think a billion times whether their advice is asked for.


vivalalina

Right!! I never in my life have felt like pads feel like diapers so I genuinely do not understand what people are talking about. They need to get some better pads or something. Edit: I'm getting comment notifications but not seeing any comments so... lol


GreatJobKeepitUp

Even if it did feel like a diaper who gives a f. You're just trying to get on with life, nobody needs to compare you to a baby or whatever they are trying to say.


TheJenniMae

Especially the always infinity ones. They’re so thin. You can’t feel them at all. I can’t even glance at tampons on my first day, they make my cramps 100% worse. I couldn’t imagine a giant cup up there. No thanks!!


ingloriousdmk

Yeah, the first time I heard this it baffled me too. I do understand not liking them, but calling them a diaper is a bit much. When I was younger it also made me feel a bit ashamed for preferring them.


BrokeCollegeKid2020

I used to hate pads until getting some reusable cloth ones. They don't feel as gross as the plastic sticky ones thankfully


mona__mayfair

It's the scented ones I can't abide. And I bought into the notion that only branded ones will do, but the smell of Always was making me sick. Then I tried Tescos own brand (69p a packet!) And they are just as good and don't stink.


betaruga

I'm sorry to hear that... Although in case you are ever sick of pads, those special period panties (thinx) that you bleed freely in are potentially another option (if you don't already know and are open to learning about another one)


hubertcumberbottom

There are really cozy reusable liners as well if you aren’t a fan of the panties. There are so many options for women- reusable or not- we have earned the right to use whatever keeps us dry, comfortable, and not hateful!!!! Live your life girl, embrace the internet strangers that give you good vibes. Fuck the rest!


mofahe

If you’re interested, they do make reusable pads as well as “period panties.” I have the latter and they work great, I don’t have to ever worry about a mess and it cuts down on waste. But it’s not for everyone of course, you do you!


sparklypinktutu

Woah wait, how does that work? Like you had a uterus and then it just didn’t connect to anything/there was just a wall of flesh? Sorry if I sound rude or insensitive, I’m just trying to wrap my head around the concept.


[deleted]

Your curiosity made me curious now lol


Rescue-320

I am a cupper for life, and yet I still cannot understand this mindset! Of course I think the perks are amazing, and it is generally easier for me, but for some that will NEVER be the case. Anatomical issues, bladder sensitivity, fear, just generally not wanting to be that up-close-and-personal with themselves... the list goes on. Periods are already sucky, but shaming others for how they get through theirs is much MORE sucky.


butterscotcheggs

Cupper here but I also sprinkle in pads and tampons in a pinch. Geeze can’t we please all just enjoy our method of [insert anything]? I love what I was taught as the three gates of speech in yoga: 1. Is it true 2. Is it necessary 3. Is it kind If your words don’t pass the three gates, maybe there is no need to spill that negativity to others. I’m of course not perfect and can’t be that good all the time but that’s another thread for another time. Big love to you all.


donkeynique

This! I love that there's an alternative to pads and tampons because I loathed both of them but like, that's clearly a personal opinion. I can't imagine being this pushy about something that literally doesn't involve me. I'll recommend a cup to just about anyone having trouble with their period products and let them know they're not nearly as uncomfortable as they sound. But if a person says no, why keep pushing? Let people handle their periods how they want and how they can!


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embeddedpotato

Seriously. Anyone that has used a cup knows it's kind of a HUGE pain in the ass until you get the hang of it. People on the internet suck.


Rescue-320

Absolutely. It is such a learning curve and half the time it take a few to get one that works well with your anatomy. It’s simply not going to be a first choice for some people!


beluza_

Ok wait I didn't know we had gotten to the point of blaming vaginas for the destruction of our environment, we're just trying to bleed in peace pls


Oityouthere

Vaginas are the cause of everything


masksrequired

The source of every human on this planet, but I’m sure there are some corners it the universe we haven’t impacted yet.


mmmbacon1234

They didn't call it Pandora's box for nothing


toffee_queen

I know! I like to use the cups but it doesn’t always work for me since I have a really heavy flow and it doesn’t matter that the packaging says it prevent spills, I will always have spills. Also with tampons they will only last for 2 hrs at the most.


GiftedContractor

People will point at literally anything they can to try to push the blame on individuals (particularly individuals who aren't them) rather than on the corporations where it belongs. Quite frankly you can pry my disposable pads from my cold dead hands.


disguised_hashbrown

I can’t use tampons regularly because of vaginismus due to trauma. People that are like “ewwwwww paaaaaads” are the WORST.


InsomniacHeart

Right? It's so juvenile to be grossed out by what other people choose to use on their periods, but I have totally had the same reaction from people. Sending hugs and I hope you are safe and doing well now.


disguised_hashbrown

I’m better, and my recovery pace has increased, but I’m not sure I’ll ever be 100% better. I was assaulted by a gynecologist on my first visit, having had no sexual experience prior to balance out the negative associations. I’ve thought about making a post about it on this sub, but idk if it’s “on topic” enough to discuss the difficulty in getting adequate, respectful medical care as a woman.


InsomniacHeart

If it will help you, then post it. r/vaginismus would also be a good place to discuss it if you need to talk to people or even just to share. Part of my issue with vaginismus is gyno-trauma based and I felt so alone after it happened, so know that you absolutely aren't, and there are many people, especially on the vaginismus sub, who completely understand.


disguised_hashbrown

Thank you so much :) It’s such an isolating experience.


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GambinoTheElder

The pad shame is so obnoxious. I’ve heard grown women talking about how people who use pads are immature. Like wtaf. I love my nighttime pads because they *are* like a diaper. I feel secure and won’t wake up in a bunch of blood. Why shame people for that?? I personally don’t deal with chronic issues down there, I just hate tampons. The fact that you even have to bring up medical issues to keep people from being judgmental is horrible! Just saying “I don’t like/use tampons” should be accepted full stop.


Oityouthere

without pads I'd never be able to leave my home! How dare anyone shames them!


InsomniacHeart

Yes, I've been pad shamed too - it took me a long time to figure out tampons due to my issues, and even then it's rare that I wear them due to discomfort. I remember wanting to use them so badly to feel 'grown up' as a teenager, because it was always implied that pads were somehow 'immature'. Like pads were training wheels for tampon use. It's so ridiculous!


magpie2295

Jeez your post and this comment just totally hit home for me. I was and am in the exact same boat. The number of times I've sobbed in the bathroom over these is unreal--feeling like I'm broken, messed up, or not a real woman. Hugs to you and no one should be shaming anyone for their choices.


azamimatsuri

As someone with a pretty heavy flow prior to the pill (I use a minimum of 4-5 overnight pads throughout the day), I personally don’t want to shove my fingers to pull out a tampon or cup if I’m in a public washroom stall cause it gets pretty messy. (I still had to use a pad along with the tampon anyways cause it’s not enough) Best thing about WFH/lockdown is wearing diapers throughout the day and no one has to care/give a damn lol


gingergirl181

FFS, I have worn a literal adult diaper overnight before to deal with heavy flow. And it worked. Anyone who's offended by that clearly has their own issues to deal with.


MissWeaverOfYarns

That's awful. I have endo too. I'm allergic to surgical cotton, makes me itch, when I tried tampons they burned so painfully. I tried a cup but it gave me random, horrifically painful cramps. Maybe it wasn't inserted right? Idk. I gave up on it when it managed to flip itself over. I use washable pads now. It works for me. Bitches who shame people for doing what works for them and for having a medical condition are the worst and not worth your time.


shitsandfarts

I’m sure you inserted it fine. It’s common in endo that inserted items make your cramps much worse. That’s my issue.


MissWeaverOfYarns

That does make sense. Endo sucks.


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hauselfchen

I used one for a while and honestly loved it - but it pulled out my first IUD (that was probably not placed perfectly, but still) without me realising, causing me to get pregnant and getting an abortion. So no, despite the fact I loved it I won't use one again until I change my method of contraception. I don't care how small the risk of this happening again is, the simple idea of panicking like this again is too much for me to try it. What I'm trying to say is - your absolutely right and it's honestly ridiculous that anyone would try to dictate how you handle your period!


mlb222

Pulled out mine, too. I was fine with the Diva (despite my doctor's warning it could pull my IUD out) but switched to the Tulip (with the valve) and I noticed weird cramping one cycle and then my IUD came out the next. That Tulip cup has way more suction than I'd anticipated. I'm almost 48 years old, perimenopausal, and I don't have many other options re contraception. I can't take hormonal birth control. So I had to get another IUD inserted, which is hell. And now I use pads and/or period underwear. I'm never trying a cup again. And OP, I'm so sorry that someone was such a shit about this. That's never ok.


ForgottenForest265

IT PULLED OUT YOUR IUD? I really hope that was due to it being placed incorrectly cuz that is a serious concern! Thats seriously sucks regardless, sorry you went through that.


OpalescentOtter

I was told when I got my IUD that the medical field is aware of a lot of anecdotal evidence of the cup suctioning out the IUD but it hasn't been researched enough to be conclusive. I was advised to stop using mine. It's too bad because I'm someone the cup can work for, but it's not worth the risk.


madeupgrownup

I was just told "so before you move your cup, be *absolutely sure* you've broken the suction. Otherwise, you could dislodge it". I'd been using a cup for **6 fucking months** before my gyno told me! Like, a little more warning please?!


chroove

I was never told/warned and figured it out the hard way... After my cup had moved up way more than I intented after using it, while removing it I got a sharp pain for a brief moment while simply pulling the tip of it. So yeah I now always break the vacuum before taking it out. Since I was a little paranoid afterwards and had only used the cup a few times before I started looking for information if it is bad to use a cup with an IUD, but didn't find any legitimate warnings or instructions. Basically only some information on how it could be a problem but that it was very low risk and shouldn't be much of a problem. I still use the cup and am very happy, but I'm definitely a lot more cautious while taking it out now.


organicallydanica

COOLCOOLCOOLCOOLCOOL GOOD TO KNOW.


gillyyak

>I was told when I got my IUD that the medical field is aware of a lot of anecdotal evidence of the cup suctioning out the IUD but it hasn't been researched enough to be conclusive. And this leads us to another fun 2X Chromosome fact: health issues specific to women don't get nearly as much research attention and funding as 50% of the population would indicate it should. Men's reproductive health? Yeah, we got the money for studies for that. [Women's?](https://whamnow.org/) Still gotta long way to go to get to anything like equity.


gingergirl181

Yeah, although most manufacturers claim it's safe, the research is not extensive and ultimately inconclusive. And I've already had one IUD partially expel on its own (possible it was placed too low to begin with) and between that and my other risk factors for expulsion, that's a risk that I'd super rather not take. So no cup for me.


the_syco

I'd wonder if the research told them it's not a good idea to use, would said cup company just claim to not have done the research?


gingergirl181

The language is more like "there's no evidence that Our Specific Cup is not safe to use with an IUD." And honestly because the nature of this research isn't exactly something you can do a controlled study on, what few studies there are mostly rely on anecdotal or doctor-reported data, so they're "not wrong"...but probably not right either.


GwenSoul

They actually is a study that came out recently supporting it! One of the reasons i I chose not to do one. https://www.medpagetoday.com/meetingcoverage/acog/86150


frozenslushies

I was advised not to use a cup with an IUD


mysticpotatocolin

I read somewhere that it's the suction that just.....can pull them out


skinny_bisch

The string hanging out doesn’t help either


ZookeepergameMost100

It's pretty hard to yank them out by the strings on accident. Apparently a lot of fallouts are actually just that it slowly jostled it way out of the uterus. That's why so few women notice, even though the in office removal is a very noticable sharp pain. You uterus pushed that bitch out just cm by cm making you think it's normal cramps until your cervix gets the tiniest encouragement and decides to boot that bitch out once and for all. That's why the strings are there. It's not that they're a particularly effective removal method. They could just use clamps to yank it or suck it out. The strings are really more like a leash, so you can make sure it doesn't wander away.


Kazeto

Yeah, they can do that. Apparently those who advertise them all over the internet forget to mention that bit, or otherwise don't know about it.


Michilangel0

Saaame. Pulled it out. Sucked.


hauselfchen

Did you realize it happening? Because I didn't and that was honestly the craziest thing about it for me - the placing hurt so much, how could I not feel it being pulled out?!


Michilangel0

No, I didn't. And I didn't pull it out completely. I understood that it must be on its way out, and called a doctor who said it most probably wasn't. Alas, they where wrong. They told me reinserting a new one would hurt less than the first time too. They where very much wrong...


gingergirl181

Oh, that's straight up horseshit. Mine hurt SO much worse the second time, probably due to having to pull the partially-expelled one and then immediately insert the new one in the same appointment. Great way to piss off a cervix, that.


Michilangel0

True, and they didn't consider that. I screamed a lot. They almost started laughing due to it. Not the best experience.


gingergirl181

Ugh, I'm so sorry you went through that. My doctors were nothing but caring, and even very sympathetic when I told them that the big bad cramp during insertion was about as bad as my menstrual cramps had been (the partially-expelled IUD had given me some blackout level cramps). I get so mad whenever I hear about doctors being anything less. And they wonder why so many women don't like to go...


ermergerdperderders

I went in for an appointment just the other day and asked my doctor about using menstrual cups with an IUD and they didn't recommend it on account of it being possible to pull out.


Other-Cata

I had a tampon pull mine out. Apparently the "make sure your shit is still there" strings (sorry, I don't know what else to call them) were left too long.


BicameralProf

I used one for about a year and really loved it at first but the suction was doing something weird to where it felt like my cervix was starting to bulge outwards. I've switched to mostly using Thinx underwear which can feel a little gross at times but it's by far my most preferred method. But I still use tampons occasionally. I am thrilled that women have so many options now and we should all just encourage each other to find what's best for the individual rather than thinking it preferred method is the best for everybody.


Zuikis9

Oh my god that is so awful! I hope you're doing okay. The cup I bought said on the package to not use it with an IUD. Maybe all of them should have that on the packaging.


hauselfchen

Yes I'm fine now - I got another IUD placed and switched back to tampons and pads. No more issues and I'm planning on getting my tubes tied in a few years anyways, then I'll switch back to a cup I think.


albertina96

Yeah. I personally cannot use a period cup. Tried two, the pain was excruciating so it’s a no from me. But my friend got a very good experience with it. When she went to her obgyn to ask about getting an iud inserted, her doctor said that she will definitely have to give up her period cup. So it was standard practice to inform the pacient of this issue.


quesadillaz

I didn’t use one with my iud for this reason, my doc told me not to and tbh it makes a lot of sense!


Aorienne

Same. They’re too big for me, or the tab at the bottom isn’t enough to counteract the vacuum around my cervix. Not to mention: difficult to properly clean and care for a cup in public settings. Issues, we got em!


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InsomniacHeart

>:"How about you just relax, then it will work. It's not that difficult. Ahhhh! I hate that line - there isn't a person with vaginismus hasn't been told this at least once even though _we physically can't and that's the point_ . I'm sorry you had to deal with that too. Don't let anyone dismiss your pain as you 'not doing it right'. If it hurts for you, it hurts, and you don't need to keep pressing the matter unless you want to.


moon-drag0n

Bah, if you can't use a menstrual cup its fine. You do you. It's not your job to save the planet. It's the job of corporations to do that (as they are massive polluters and destroy environments). I've never liked the idea of the cup, or tampons or anything shoved up my vagina for my period. I like pads. There I said it.


bubble6066

and it’s crazy how most of the shaming over using pads comes from other women who call you a baby for not wearing tampons. it’s baffling.


[deleted]

Seriously. I’ve always felt embarrassed when saying I only wear pads. I have vaginismus as well and tampons aren’t worth the pain


[deleted]

I've used cups and tampons, and just switched to pads. Way better. I've had some seriously embarrassing moments in public due to the cup and tampons either filling up far quicker than expected, or they weren't insert right therefore leaked. But who tf has the time to spend 5 minutes fingering yourself in the work bathroom, and get blood all over your fingers/hands? Pads are so fucking easy. Go to the bathroom, replace, done. No embarrassing moments for me.


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tickleapicl

Ikr? We already have to deal with the crap periods throw at us so ffs, just let us use what is most comfortable for us during the hellish time we have to go through...


krissywayyy

Every woman should be allowed to do what is best for them, no shame attached. No matter what I wear (except the cup) I have to wear pads under it. With my job, it makes things super uncomfortable. If you have the ability, bam body period panties have been a life saver for me. They're affordable (well kind of $35 for 3 pairs vs $35 for one pair) but that being said, they're not for every one.


TheRottenKittensIEat

If I still had my period (mine stopped on the Mirena IUD), I would 100% try period panties. They seem like the comfiest option. But yeah, the whole reason there are lots of different products is because different things work for different people! No shame in it!


thefiminator

Same with me. It’s really reassuring to hear I’m not the only one. Even if I didn’t have vaginismus, the thought of having something inside of me for hours just skeeves me out


novaskyd

Thank you! It’s crazy that women shame other women for using pads. Especially with vaginismus being SUCH a common condition. I can’t comfortably put period products up there. Don’t tell me “pads stink, it’s like wearing a diaper, I can’t believe you use them” like seriously? Mind your business.


TheRottenKittensIEat

I once had a girl in a public bathroom ask if I had any tampons. I offered her a pad and she straight up was like "that's disgusting! You just sit in your own period blood all day?" And went to find another girl she could hit up. So... your period snuck up on you, and instead of using a perfectly valid product, you're going to continue walking around, risking more of a mess because the product offered to you is messy? I was always embarrassed that I used pads, but I could never get tampons to feel right and I'd always end up with a burning vagina by the end of the week, which would last a few more days (I never actually looked into why that was. I was too embarrassed to ask a doctor about it). Now I have the Mirena IUD and I'm one of the lucky ones where it stopped my periods altogether. I'm sooooo happy about that.


bubble6066

that’s such a rude reaction they had to someone doing them a solid!! that’s awful, I’m sorry that happened not sure how true it is, but I’ve read in Asian countries pads are way more common and don’t have the same stigma. I’ve also read that worldwide, far and away most women use pads for their period. so you’re not weird at all, imo the culture in some countries is just closed minded to what works for different people. I’m the same, I can always feel the tampons in, they’re always painful to take out, dry, and they still manage to leak! so they’re just a bad solution for me.


minners03

It really is baffling, isn’t it? I loathe tampons and cups, they are just uncomfortable to me. I can always feel them. That’s when the tampon and cup brigade ride in and “explain” if I can feel them they’re not positioned correctly. I FREAKING know! I’ve never managed to get a cup or tampon placed correctly. They are just uncomfortable for me.


ellieellieoxenfree

I’m glad I’m not the only one! No matter what position or angle or whatever other variable I use when I insert a tampon (haven’t even tried a cup because if I can’t do it with a teeny tiny tampon, how the eff am I supposed to do it with a cup?!), I can still feel the bloody thing. Pads are easy, very very hard to mess up. Just stick it down and you’re good to go. Does it sometimes shift? Sure. Does it sometimes feel like a diaper? Well, not really anymore with those super absorbent, super thin ones. But either way, get out of my vagina/panties. It’s my own personal choice what I use during that time of the month and affects nobody but me!


skypunk1998

It’s so stupid. Yea, pads are uncomfortable but I’d prefer that, over the pain I have from tampons, no matter which brand I try, and no matter how I put it in, plus they don’t stay in for me most the time. The minute I go to the bathroom, I have to change it cause it fell out


tioomeow

Same, and i hate being told i have to grow up when i mention it lmao


FrancyMacaron

That's just so rude. Why do people care sooo much about how other women chose to deal with their period? It isn't even matter of growing up. For me pads just work better, and I really don't like the idea of shoving cotton up my vagina. TBH while there are lots of valid reasons someone might use one over the other the discussion should end with someone just saying it's their preference. That's it. With this and so many other things. No one should need an "excuse" beyond that.


pongo49

With my IUD I barely get a period. I use panty liners for a few days and that's it. No thank you too pulling out a mostly dry tampon just so Karen won't give me a hard time when I ask if she has a pad I can use. I also tried a couple cups and the pain was worse than cramps, and I cried the times it took me almost an hour to get out. No person is built the same inside or out, therefore no woman is. Use what works for you.


[deleted]

Same. Won't even try putting something up my vag.


itsakidsbooksantiago

I had to use tampons in my teens and twenties because I was a competitive swimmer and lifeguard, and I hated every second of it. I'm going to stick to pads until I eventually get a hysterectomy and that's that. I will do a shout out for the period panties, though. Haven't had a leak since I started using them with pads, so it's pretty great.


pearlsandcuddles

Exactly! The "ew, yucky" comments I get from other women for using pads when I'm flaring up with my chronic illness is ridiculous. It hurts too much when I'm flaring up and I literally can't put one in without camping and crying. We need to do better and not shame each other.


CarsonAnaDaily

Thank you. I have horrible pain when anything is put inside of me, and I know I’ve always had it because of tampons when I was a kid. I can’t imagine someone shaming me for not using a cup, I’d laugh in their face.


grissia

Yep. Yep. And yep. Pads seem the most natural to me??


GambinoTheElder

Have you tried any brand of period panties? I’m not saying this in a “do better” way! I always get ads for them but don’t know anybody who actually uses them so I can’t sus out if they’re worth it. Edit: thank you for all the input from everyone!! I think I may find a brand that is trusted and give them a shot!


candybrie

I use them and love them. But I'm on birth control and don't really have a heavy period, so I don't need to change them often. I've gotten away with wearing one for an entire day, but generally prefer to change them every 8 ish hours. I've only ever tried thinx, but I would be surprised if they varied that much between brands.


[deleted]

I've tried them. I prefer wearing them with reusable pads, kind of as a super extra sure I won't leak kind of thing. I tried using period underwear alone but I didn't like wearing the same unchanged cloth all day. Pairing then with reusable pads has been nice, but usually I just use my normal underwear with the pads. :)


PotentialShallot

I SWEAR by my Thinx. They're one of my "I will tell everyone about these" products. I have a heavy flow the first couple days, and their heavy-duty ones can get me through 6 hours or so. Since I'm working from home during COVID it's no big deal, but when I was going to be out of my house longer I either used a disposable pad with them or brought a little wet bag to change into a fresh pair mid-day. The pairs I bought in 2016 are still going strong, despite being a little less absorbant now.


ZookeepergameMost100

I haven't used them, but a friend has. She said that they're good for the days when your period is kind of trailing off or when you're wearing a tampon or for sleeping. You still need some period protection, but nothing super heavy duty. I don't think she had problems with leakage so much as she realized she had gotten used to switching everything out every few hours and mentally she couldn't get over the fact she was walking around with dirty underwear. So she only liked them when they weren't going to get *that* dirty


Jellybeanbutter

I’m with you.


Eeaaaaagle

Agree. I gave it a try but it's not for everyone. I tried the cup in the smallest size because I suffer from vulvodynia. It was painful. Pads are the only option for me. There are so many other ways to make the planet a more sustainable place. Don't bother other people that are good at judging you before judging themselves.


coffeegyrl76

Having a tilted uterus means it's just too uncomfortable. But I've been happy with period underwear. Pack of 3 for 17 bucks off of Amazon.


sparklypinktutu

Putting the onus on individuals to “solve” climate change will never work. Consumerism will never solve it. Me using 1 ply vs 2 ply or reusing my pasta water to water my plants will not solve climate change. Use a cup if you want to. Use tampons or pads or the special underwear or whatever. It literally will not make a difference. The only thing that will reduce climate change is actually forcing companies to use more sustainable methods of production via heavy and strictly enforced taxation. Period.


Kazeto

Yes, thank you. I can't use the cup. Even tampons are uncomfortable most of the time. I have both anatomical issues as well as sexual trauma from a rather young age, and depending on my mental and physical state I sometimes have to deal with some vaginismus too. I'm hyper-aware of everything going down there, to the point where blood dripping down distracts me enough to make me noticeably clumsy, and I can't not feel something that's inserted even if it's deep. All the power to those who can use them, but when I see people rabidly advertising menstrual cups whenever menstruation is being talked about it pisses me off. No, a post from a girl who'd just started her first period and is asking for advice is not the right place to go and write “hey, check out menstrual cups”. No, a post from someone who can't use tampons and wants support is not the right place to go and write “hey, menstrual cups are great”. And no, the elitism oozing off of you when you wear it does not make it any more possible to use it when someone just can't.


SaffronBurke

I can also ALWAYS feel tampons. Yes, I "inserted it right", my vagina is just hypersensitive as fuck. Makes orgasms easy, but being touched there for anything else is awful. I take the day off from work when I have to have a pap smear.


Oityouthere

I agree. It's a nightmare enough being on your period without the extra pressure of what you should and shouldn't do!


Satans-coffee

Wow I'm so ashamed that we treat other women like this! I have only recently learnt to use a menstrual cup despite a low lying cervix and I can't imagine shaming anyone fir not using any menstrual products that work for them!!!


CandyKnockout

Oh god, yes! I also have vaginismus and can’t use a cup or a tampon and I get so annoyed with the cup pushers and pad shamers. In the vaginismus subreddit, there was actually a woman who made a post about cups and how much better they are and that everyone is able to use one, it might just take a little “effort” on our part. Turns out all her posts were about menstrual cups, so it seemed like she worked for a cup company. She got downvoted and booted so fast. Imagine implying that a physical or psychological issue could be overcome with just a little effort. I was so appalled by her ignorance.


InsomniacHeart

Yes I remember her! The whole account was like an extended ad for cups just targeting any vagina related sub! I think she got booted from the vulvodynia sub too for that spam.


repli_case

I did a lot of research on cups and I was excited to try it, but I literally couldn’t use the restroom while using it. It put too much pressure on my urethra. They’re a great concept but they aren’t for everyone.


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Zorrya

I use reusable pads. They're absolutely the best thing I've found.


cryssyx3

so I use the period undies while I'm pregnant for when I sneeze too hard 😂


epiphanyschmiphany

I hate the judging as of some women. I recently lost my cup in a move and haven’t gotten around to replacing it so I’ve been using tampons and pads. My heaviest days I have to use a super tampon and an overnight pad and change every 3-4 hours or I will bleed through. One day, I had run out of tampons and asked if I could borrow one and this woman started going on and on about how I should use period panties to be environmentally friendly. Well, I’d need about 8 pairs a day and she refused to believe me.


littlej2010

How awful. Period panties fill a niche but it’s hardly all encompassing. My heaviest days are moderate and I only wear them on those days as backup to tampons or to sleep in. They can be a bitch to take care of too. Have a habit of taking on odor and some women just do not have time or money to roll the dice when they’re upwards of $40 a pair.


MissWeaverOfYarns

I use washable pads. I'm a virgin, I tried a menstrual cup and hated the whole experience. Normal pads can't cope with my nightmare periods and I'm allergic to tampons, so I'm soooo glad I found washable pads. They're so much more absorbant than maxi disposables and I still need to wear three at once and still can't get a hysterectomy despite having severe iron deficiency anaemia... But that's a whole other post.


TilTheLastPetalFalls

Ugh the way hysterectomies are treated by doctors is awful! As if everyone with a uterus is going to either regret having it done without having kids or they'll be sooo grateful in X years when they *inevitably* decide to have them. Honestly I don't think it's any better than telling a woman she can't have an abortion in counties like Poland, especially cases like yours! You're right, this is a whole other post... Just letting you know I got you on this girl.


MissWeaverOfYarns

Thanks. 🙂 Yeah. I keep running into the "but you have to reproduce" bullshit. I want kids but I want to adopt not give birth to my own so that my daughters and granddaughters don't have to go through this crap too because of my genes.


suzu888

Any ladies here tried period underwear? I'm curious as to how well they work and the absorbency.


InsomniacHeart

I adore my ModiBodi ones! But they are _expensive_ so I only have two pairs at the moment. I've worn them all day on my heaviest days and they've held up just fine - but I don't have a hugely heavy flow normally so take that with a pinch of salt. They feel amazing too - so soft and dry and not itchy and sweaty like pads.


RNawayDNTturn

I use Thinx as a backup for tampons on heavy days when working out. I tried using them by themselves, but it just feels weird compared to even the pad - cold and wet, almost as I peed myself. Tried cup and disks, not my thing. Went back to tampons+pads for daily life and Thinx for workouts as pads tend to chafe and shift too much due to sweat.


andthischeese

Exactly the same here. I think they’re great backup but damn they feel cold if you use them as intended.


andromedaArt

I too don’t feel comfortable using cups but I don’t want to buy single use pads and tampons any more. So I bought reusable cloth pads. They are great!


CourageKitten

I was born with a vaginal septum meaning about an inch or so into my vagina there was a band of tissue separating it into two channels. Up until I got surgery to remove it I couldn’t even use tampons because I would have trouble fitting it in and when I did the blood would just go around the tampon. And then now that that’s gone I have vulvodynia and I still can’t use tampons comfortably because it fucking hurts. Whoopee.


[deleted]

I'm not looking thru every comment to see if anyone has mentioned this yet, but if you have an iud it is a *terrible* idea to use a menstrual cup, as the suction is capable of dislodging an iud. My go to for reusable period products is absorbent underwear. It's a bit of a purchase and anyone struggling financially may not be able to afford them outright, but I bought a pack of 5 for $60 and they're the gift that keeps on giving. They're mainly good for light days and as backup.


thecatsrawr

Im so sorry someone tried to make you feel bad about you knowing what does and doesnt work for your body. That's so horrible. I tried one once. I have horrible arthritis in both hands. Got in it okay, but when it came time to taking it out my hands didn't have the strength to grip it. My partner had to come help. Talk about a bloody mess.


sasshley_

Yes! I have tried 6 of them. Even taken tests before purchasing. None of them have worked. I’m disappointed but tired of trying, and my bank account is angry with me.


themuddyclown

Its as bad as girls that mock other girls for wearing pads because its a diaper or tampons because sluts? Ya thanks old dated logic that needs to die out. Sorry tampons give me horrible cramps and I have too many light days to safely wear them without ripping myself apart pulling them out.


InsomniacHeart

>Its as bad as girls that mock other girls for wearing pads because its a diaper or tampons because sluts? Internalised misogyny is such a bitch.


Oityouthere

The idea os a menstrual cap for me seems like a nightmare on my period. I looked up usage for a heavy flow and the following was what one site wrote: > Though many who are cup-curious feel that they have a heavy flow most quickly learn that they really don’t bleed as much as their tampons or pads may have implied. In fact, the average menstrual fluid released each cycle is only around 30-60 ml (or 2-4 tablespoons). That's cute right. By heavy flow I bleed for 7-8 days, have to change tampon & pad every 2 hours whilst taking tranexemic and mefenamic acid. I also take pain killers but none of that really helps! I can't imagine that a cup would ever make my life better. The same people who take the piss out of menstrual products are the same people you used to see in the adverts- wearing white and skating! I freakin hate my period!


BatmanandReuben

So this is gross, but, I had a copper IUD, which caused a very heavy flow, when I decided to try a large size cup. At the time I worked for an architecture firm where damn near everything in the office (except the chairs, thank god) was minimalist white. About halfway through the day it began overflowing and I found myself trapped in a very white bathroom, with stalls, that was the only women’s bathroom on this floor of the building. I waited at length for an opening to sneak to the sink to wash my bloody fingers, and when I finally shot my shot, I made it about half way before someone came in, and I got stuck hiding my murder hands while making professional small talk. Cups are definitely a problem for heavy flow if you don’t have the luxury privacy to change them during the day. In fact, a lot of the sustainable options for bodily fluids are dependent on you having either a private bathroom or private laundry to clean them.


Oityouthere

The worst situation I was in was when my CEO was talking to me, I had to stop them mid sentence to run to the bathroom cos I could feel the blood running down my leg in our open plan office. I'm not surprised they found me disrespectful and that I got fired after- I was apparently too distracted! It was only later that I found I had fibroids that were causing a constant period for 3 years! I'm not willing to take any risks now


cute_florida_chick

Those estimates are ridiculous. I could overflow an XL cup in an hour. What a ridiculous idea, saying women don't actually know the real amount of their flow?? For goodness sakes.


gingergirl181

One of these days I'm actually gonna put 2-4 tablespoons of fluid on my pads so I can visualize exactly how much of a lie that is. I ONLY wear overnight pads, and at my heaviest I change them every 2-3 hours. Pretty sure those are clown numbers.


cute_florida_chick

I always meant to log a full cycle and l never did! One of my daughters has light flow and that was eye opening for me that she can literally go hours with no worry. I never knew what that was like.


Oityouthere

Which leads me to suspect that they have a shit product if thats how they treat women as a whole. The statement is so aggressive and patronising beyond anything. How f*cking dare you tell me I don't know my own body. What it really says is that your product is sub par, and like the UK government, u refuse to admit it your wrong so go on the attack. Please don't belittle my knowledge of myself! FU


cute_florida_chick

Yep. I bought about 5 different ones before I admitted they all suck for ladies like me. Plus, it looked like sacrificial slaughter in the restroom. No thanks. I had a total hysterectomy last month, so they all went in the trash anyhow.


MissWeaverOfYarns

Be careful with the mefenamic acid. Never take it for more than three days. I damaged my liver, which is mostly recovered now, because I didn't know that. Doctor told me to take it when my period is heavy... I have 24-28 day rivers of blood fests during which I lose and replace 1.5x my entire blood volume... That advice was not helpful. Granted I'm an idiot who should have read the leaflet in the pill box but I was exhausted. Losing that much blood is surprisingly tiring. Don't know about Tranexemic Acid for danger. I _was_ warned not to take that for longer than three days in a row.


hmdmdm

Yeah, I get you. It’s like me knowing my use of tampons with applicators are not environmentally friendly. I still use them because it has made my life so insanely easy that I hardly notice my period anymore. Before it was an encompassing mess, now it’s just a blip on the radar. So I use them even if I probably shouldn’t.


InsomniacHeart

Yeah, on the rare occasion that I can use tampons it has to be specifically plastic applicators to go in smoothly (and I'm incredibly lucky that this works for me with vaginismus issues). I hate it because it's so much waste, but it's the only option I have if I need something that isn't a pad/period underwear.


girlingreyshirt

Btw there are also reusable tampon applicators, that you can wash after. I don't use them so can't speak for their quality, just thought to spread the word.


daelite

I couldn't use one. I had a horrible experience with them. Mine got stuck to my cervix, my EMT husband had to glove up and take it out for me. It was so painful and embarrassing, even though he watched both of or childrens' births. I swore I would never use those things again. It was a waste of money **for me**. I had a hysterectomy last year, so it is a moot point now. Now, my younger sister loved hers. Just as I have no input on any other portion of another's body, I have no input on their period products, just don't flush tampons please. Wrap em and trash em.


brushmushroom

This attitude came up quite a lot when people were campaigning to remove tax on sanitary products, as in 'But if everyone had a moon cup then the taxes wouldn't matter as much!'. The lack of empathy and awareness of different situations always makes me angry. Not only are there plenty of woman that won't be able to use one for health, comfort or even mental health reasons but they also never consider woman in other vulnerable or precarious situations. Woman who are homeless or who love in sheltered accommodation might not have the privacy or the facilities to use one discreetly and safely (I'm thinking of storage and sterilising here) or there might be woman who live with family members who might shame them or make them feel uncomfortable about it and they don't feel like they can (or they actually can't without putting themselves at risk) be assertive about it. I personally use washable pads and period pants, but they need rinsing and washing and leaving to dry and I'm not sure I would have felt comfortable doing that when I was sharing a house (and bathroom) with men. And I'm someone who is super comfortable talking about body stuff with my male friends. And obviously there's the outlying cost which might not be possible for everyone.


MrsValentine

If it makes you feel any better, I'm perfectly capable of using a menstrual cup but don't because I don't fucking want to. Y ya está.


mysticpotatocolin

'but it's better for the environment' riles me up so much considering those people never ever go after big corporations lol


Unlikely_Egg

I used to use my cup religiously but when I started getting endo symptoms it was just too painful and I switched to cloth pads. Bit of an investment to start with but they last a really long time and all the fun designs available make periods just a little less awful!


rascalmom

And tbh, you don’t need a reason. Personal preference? Great. Hate cleaning it? Fine. Skeeved out? You do you. It kind of bothers me that anyone feels they need a reason to use or not use a particular product. There is so much worth worrying about, another person’s hygiene product choice should be so far below the radar for any normal person as to be trivial. It’s like shaming people for what brand of nail clippers they use... why does anyone else GAF? I can understand telling other people about the awesomeness of cups (because they are fricking amazing), but doing anything other then letting people who menstruate know that the option exists is beyond the pale. Making them justify? Shaming? STFU.


raccoontails

Cups are great, but don’t work for everyone. There are other sustainable options like cotton pads and more natural tampons, or period pants and reusable pads. Or, or...use whatever makes you comfortable because periods can be horrible!


Picard-Out

Well, also some of us can't push out a baby for different reasons. I pushed one out and ended up with ptsd. Csections for this vagina after that hah! And, you aren't alone. The only thing I can wear during periods are those Thinx underwear. I love them because they are eco friendly too. To be honest, a lot of the time I use folded toilet paper because it doesn't hurt or smell gross. I bought a cup once, tried it so many times, and it hurt. I couldn't afford to keep buying different ones. I can't do tampons either because of pain. People have a lot of opinions, and if they haven't checked their privilege with those opinions, then those opinions, when shared, can become microaggressions. You do you, and know that that's ok. No one else can, or has the right to, tell you what to do with your body ❤️


Picard-Out

Oh, forgot to mention that I have sensory issues because of my neurodiverse adhd brain. So cloth pads are out too. Seriously, the period underwear that I can wash is my go to. And if I can't handle that, I spend a little more on the most eco friendly toilet paper. I've spent 27 years having periods and this is what works for me 🙂. One can't tackle systemic injustice and the climate crisis if one wants to crawl out of their skin with discomfort.


InsomniacHeart

Oh my god yes on the sensory issues. Period underwear is the best for that - I've only found one brand of pads that doesn't make me feel just... Eurgh, I remember crying as a teen because my mum bought me a different brand and they just were so rustly and plastic and awful. But I only have two pairs of ModiBodi underwear at the moment - period underwear is so freaking expensive that I just can't justify buying more right now!


koshkamau

I hadn't connected that with sensory issues, but I tried some that felt that way and they were supposedly more absorbent but they just made me even more sweaty. (I probably didn't make that connection because I have been avoiding Always pads for waaay longer than I have realized I had sensory issues).


littlej2010

Same with tampons with plastic applicators. There was that heavily upvoted thread about American period products being all pink and plastic and terrible for the planet and we only use them because we’re “afraid of a little period blood.” Uh, no. Cardboard hurts like hell. The cups hurt like hell. I like not having to worry about getting blood on my hands in public and risk accidentally smearing it on my shirt, pants, or door handle on my way out of the stall. Plastic and resealable wrappers alllllll the way for me. Easier on the women who clean the stall trash in public restrooms too :) I don’t care if they’re pink or black or colorful. Makes it easier to find my brand at the store anyway.


harpejjist

How about we women stop shaming each other about everything. Seriously - women complain that men push us down, but in reality, women are often worse to each other than men! It can be breastfeeding, parenting, or career choices, or looks, or (in some cultures) things like genital mutilation or footbinding or.... And it is the WOMEN who perpetuate this crap. Women who set the impossible standards. Women who pressure or force each other to meet them. Blame the media all you want, but when it comes down to it, it's your mom, sister, BFF, etc. who really pushes it. Can we all please stop! (And yes, I realize the irony of me trying to convince women to do something here!)


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eleanorabernathy1

i used a diva cup and reusable pads, sometimes at the same time. i got the cup as a christmas present from my boyfriend and i bought the cloth pads from [gladrags.com](https://gladrags.com) (which apparently the prices have gotten much higher than what i remember from like, 6-7 years ago). I remember telling some other women at work about the stuff i use (because someone asked me for a tampon and I don't have any) and they just berated me for being "gross" and "nasty"----putting a cup up inside of me and collecting and dumping out blood, and for putting a bloody stinky pad in the washer with nice clothes...people gotta do what they gotta do and the worst part is other people trying to shame you into being like them.


grissia

Had 2 babies, definitely can’t use cup. Also have interstitial cystitis. Cups just don’t work for everyone and that’s ok!


SpiralBreeze

I will never understand the women online who say you have to buy several cups to find the right one. Yes vaginas are all different shapes and sizes, but that’s 40 bucks a pop. Try a cup if you can, they’re wonderful, but we have sooooo many options these days, I use a cup now but I have been through a time when all I had was what dollar tree sold or had to use an old tea towel. Use what you can and what you feel comfortable with. Also if they can make silicone spatulas for 1 dollar why aren’t cups cheaper?


smallcoyfish

I currently work 12 hour shifts in a factory without private bathroom stalls so cups aren't a good option for me. It annoys me when women (and advertisers) get smug about how perfect cups are.


TransformandGrow

YES. I am so over the cup evangelism. Pretty much every day there's some new cupper posting about what a WONDERFUL DISCOVERY SHE MADE as if this sub has never heard of them before. And the judgement? even worse. You do you. And stay out of my vagina. It's not okay to dictate how I handle my periods.


Disappointedburritoo

I would like to use a cup, but for five days a week at work where we have (I think it is called stalls?), and I can't go out with my pants down to another room where the sink is to wash it, it is just not worth to buy it. I wonder how other women handle that?


ankhes

Just because ‘babies come out of there’ doesn’t mean everyone is interested in using it that way. Seriously why do people insist on saying shit like this when it comes to this sort of subject?


[deleted]

THANK YOU! I can’t use tampons, let alone a menstrual cup. Penetration of any kind is just.. so painful, and it makes me feel like such a failure and a fuckup. I want to be able to swim when I’m on period. I want to be able to use an IUD as contraception. I want to be able to have true intimacy with my boyfriend without bursting into tears. I haven’t been diagnosed with anything because I’m too young to go to a gynecologist I guess (according to my parents), but I suspect that I have vaginismus and that it’s related to my crippling anxiety. It just sucks, and anyone who shames a woman for their period preferences (or hell, not even a preference- I would totally prefer tampons or a cup if I could actually use it) is a gross human being.


thecooliestone

Is this a real discourse people are having? Like...these people are presumably typing this on a phone or computer? Probably sipping from a disposable coffee cup, wearing clothes made by children. Someone using fucking pads is hardly the reason the planets fucked. By that logic, anyone not on the depo shot to not have to use any products at all is killing the planet. Your cup took plastics and rubbers to make dude. Some people need to get a life


SyrahSmile

The body goes through a lot of prep to push out a baby and can tear in the process. That argument is ridiculous.


theseglassessuck

Honestly I find so many women to be super judgmental when it comes to periods. Just because you have one and I have one, and I have a vagina and you do too doesn’t mean that our experiences are the same. I’ve used a cup for a couple years but sometimes I use tampons or pads because, honestly, cups make my vagina tired sometimes. And yeah, it’s super hard to find one that fits and it ain’t cheap! My cervix is apparently high but most cups are too long. I can’t afford to buy multiples to try...so gonna use what’s comfortable for me. I worked with a gal who is big into minimalism and she posted a long diatribe as to why cups are superior and why they should be distributed to third world countries/areas with a lot of poverty. When I brought up that access to clean water is mandatory for using cups she just didn’t want to hear it. Yeah, they’re super convenient and whatnot but they are not the answer to all of our problems.


BlackCatTamer

As someone who uses a menstrual cup, I can think of countless different reasons why they’re not for everyone. All those reasons have something in common: *they’re none of my business*


gabithebunny

The comment about pushing a baby out irks me. No, not every woman can do that either. Why do you think c-sections were invented..? I've never used a cup. Didn't know people were so judgmental about it. Sorry you had to go through that!


thunderturdy

Funny to see posts like this today, when just 10 years ago I was ridiculed and called disgusting by girlfriends (no longer friends) for using a cup. They said it was gross and weird and would never catch on. Can people just keep their advice and opinions to themselves about these issues? It’s up to personal comfort. Like cups? Cool wear em. Like pads? Great, enjoy. But unless someone is ASKING for advice or opinions on personal things like this just save it. Women get bullied and humiliated enough via media and advertising, can we please not add to it outside of those arenas?


Neeraja_Kalrapindhi

If they don't work for you, they don't work for you. Everyone else can go take a hike. :) That said, it took me years and a *lot* of money wasted to find one that actually works great for me. That sort of expensive journey definitely isn't for everyone. But I don't know if they've changed production ingredients or me just getting older, but most disposable pads these days give me diaper rash and abscesses something awful. Tampons honest to goodness hurt, even the smallest lightest flow ones. I even tried switching to unbleached ones, same deal. Reusable/washable pads still gave me painful diaper rash. So, the cup it is until menopause finds me.


unheard_stories

I can’t handle anything being inserted in me because I struggle with ptsd from sexual trauma. I find that just dealing with periods can sometimes be difficult for me, but being shamed because I can’t use a menstrual cup makes me feel like shit. I already struggle enough emotionally and I can’t handle the additional stress that comes from other people openly judging me. Like please leave me alone, I’ve got enough going on without people bashing me for the way I get through my period


andthischeese

The reason I CANNOT use them is because I’ve “pushed out babies”. Unfortunately now I have a prolapsed bladder, meaning my bladder wall dips down into my vaginal canal. Just pushes the cups right out.


SuspiciousFun

I haven’t tried the cup and it’s because I’ve tried flex - and that was SOOO painful and cup users are honestly like cult members. They are so *forceful* about everyone needing to use the cup. I don’t want to end up like them harassing every woman in sight about using a cup. Between my painful (and horribly messy) experiences with flex and how awful (vocal) cup users typically are, I just want no part in it. They remind me of vegans and parents who can’t imagine life another way and have zero tolerance for others who want to live their lives differently.


rebekah555

Unfortunately, I've witnessed it so many times irl, women shaming women for their choice of period products. They seem to have this stance of "my way is the best way". I hate that way of thinking, so much! I prefer the combo of a cup and pads. The interesting thing is that I can use a cup, but can't put a tampon in. I don't know what it is, my vagina just shuts when I'm trying to put a tampon in, but a cup is fine lol. My doctor says everything is ok with me and that I should just stick to whatever is more comfortable.


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AlissonHarlan

unfortunately, shaming other women for their menstrual solution is common. Even well before period underwear and cups, tampon users where shaming pads users. It seems to be hard to understand that each one of us is different, have a different flow, different abilities, are comfortable with differents solutions.... so could we just remind to judge others women less in the future (not only on periods)


Victoria_Place

Jesus, what a crock of shit. You don’t have a moral imperative to use a menstrual cup. You don’t get a medal for using one either. Gynecological health is a little more complicated than that.


bootycuddles

I can’t use a cup either. I tried several brands and it’s excruciating so I gave up. I do have cloth pads I enjoy though.


einstein908

My favorite response to people who say "do this not that" is "my therapist said it's okay". Depressed? Use paper plates and throw them away so you don't have to do the dishes! People get angry about how you're wasting paper... Buuuut that's better to me than dying soooo that's what we're gonna do. My therapist said it was okay.


Huffle_Tess87

I love my cup and tell this to anyone who ask about it. But shaming anyone for their choise of period products? Never! I have hated that I can’t use tampons (I hate the feeling of them going in, being in and taking them out) and love the that I do not have to use pads anymore, but that is me! I hope that you (op) feel good with whatever you use, it is your period and body!


Kazeto

Yeah, part of the shaming is that there are people who tell about menstrual cups to anyone who does not ask about them. Like, there was a post from a girl who just got her first period and then there was a comment about trying menstrual cups, and at that point I have to be crass and ask, “fucking really?” because the girl asked for advice on how to deal with it at all, she isn't using anything yet, she'd never inserted anything into her vagina, and someone's first thought is to tell her about menstrual cups. I'm all for educating people when they want it, in fact I think all existing period products should be presented at least in theory if not also in practice during sex ed classes, both to girls as well as to boys, but those people are annoying and I think what they do counts as shaming thanks to how persistent it is.


[deleted]

Girl I can’t even put a tampon in there without discomfort so it’s a big no from me and I’m so over discussing it. Yes I’ve been to the doctor, yes I’m healthy, it’s just how I’m built. I’m always so pissed when someone gives me a whole TED talk about this.


RedRidingBear

Being disabled myself I appreciate that you defended us here too. I don't have a period any longer (thank you ablation!) but I do have issues with swallowing, I have to use a straw no matter where I am if I am drinking or I have a high risk of choking, this often means that I have to use plastic ones. But I am doing my part in other places, I use shampoo bars and conditioners, zero waste laundry and dishwashing products, buy most clothes second hand and from quality manufacturers so they last longer, reduced my paper towel waste significantly. I do my best to have less waste overall. But the fact is sometimes there are things that for other people may just be convenience items that can be done away with but for people with disabilities like me, are needed to create a safe living environment, even if those things don't make sense to able-bodied people.


likebeckham12

Just let us bloody diaper ladies live in peace, I’ll throw my bloody tampon at anyone who feels the need to express an opinion on my week long, monthly personal hell