The ultimate challenge: Tampons, pads, menstrual cups or period underwear – what is really the best choice for you?

Periods – a recurring issue for many of us, one associated with unpleasant moments, discomfort, and often frustration. Since our first period, we've had to navigate a multitude of products designed to help us make this time of the month as comfortable as possible. But which option is truly the best? Tampons, pads, menstrual cups, or period underwear – each has its own advantages and disadvantages. But one solution stands out for me. Read to the end.

Tampons: The classic that comes with many questions

I still vividly remember the first time I used a tampon. It was a kind of "coming of age"—a decision that would free me from pads. But what initially sounded so simple and practical turned out to be less comfortable than I had hoped.

Benefits of tampons:

• Discreet and unobtrusive: Tampons are small and light and therefore offer discreet protection, especially during active activities or sports.

• Longer wearing time: You can wear them for up to 8 hours, which was especially helpful for me during work or at night

Disadvantages of tampons:

• Uncomfortable: Sometimes I felt like the tampon didn't feel right, especially when it moved or as the day got longer.

• Health risks: TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome) is a known risk that can occur due to improper use of tampons. Tampons can also affect pH levels because they absorb all fluids, including vaginal secretions.

• Hygiene: Changing tampons in public restrooms can be very unhygienic.

• Waste: Because tampons are disposable, they generate a significant amount of waste. And depending on how many days your period lasts, the waste can quickly add up over the course of a month.

Pads: Simple solution, but often uncomfortable

For a long time, sanitary pads were my first choice, especially during the first few days of my period. They were easy to use and provided protection, but over time I realized they weren't really compatible with my active lifestyle.

Advantages of sanitary pads:

• Easy to use: Pads are easy to use and you don't have to worry about inserting them correctly.

• Available in many variations: Whether with or without wings, for heavy or light days – the selection is large and you will always find a suitable variant.

Disadvantages of sanitary pads:

• Uncomfortable: They can slip or wrinkle, which often leads to unpleasant friction. Plus, I don't really feel "fresh" when worn for extended periods.

• Chemicals: Many sanitary pads contain perfume or chemicals that can cause skin irritation. This can be uncomfortable, especially in sensitive areas.

• Not very environmentally friendly: Disposable products such as sanitary pads generate a lot of waste and are therefore less sustainable.

Menstrual cups: The sustainable all-rounder – but not for every woman

The menstrual cup was a big change for me at first. Many praise it as the most sustainable solution because it's reusable. However, using the cup wasn't always easy, and I quickly realized it wasn't the perfect solution for me.

Advantages of menstrual cups:

• Sustainability: You can reuse the cup over and over again, which was the main reason for me to try it out. The reduced waste was a huge plus.

• Long wearing times: You can wear the cup for up to 12 hours without having to change it, which is especially beneficial for me at night.

• Comfortable: Once inserted correctly, you no longer feel the cup and it ensures a secure hold.

Disadvantages of menstrual cups:

• Getting used to it: Using the cup isn't always intuitive and requires some practice. Inserting and removing it, in particular, can be uncomfortable or difficult at first.

• Not suitable for every woman: For some, the idea of ​​having something inside their body is not particularly pleasant, which can make the cup a less attractive option.

• Hygiene: The cup must be carefully cleaned and properly cared for, which can often be uncomfortable when traveling or in public restrooms.

Period underwear: The game changer for me

And then came period underwear. After all these years of trying different products, I finally found the solution that changed everything. It felt like regular underwear, but at the same time offered the necessary protection and comfort – no tampons, no pads, no cup. And the best part? It was comfortable, sustainable, and incredibly easy to use.

Benefits of period underwear:

• Comfort: The underwear feels like regular, comfortable underwear. You'll almost not notice you're wearing it.

• No insertion required: There are no tampons to insert and no menstrual cup to take up space. The underwear provides secure protection while remaining so comfortable you'll never want to take it off.

• Sustainable and reusable: Just like the menstrual cup, period underwear is reusable. You can simply wash and reuse it, making it an environmentally friendly solution.

• Reliable protection: Period underwear protects against leaks all day long – without the unpleasant risk of slipping that often occurs with pads or tampons.

Disadvantages of period underwear:

• Price: The initial investment may seem higher than buying disposable products, but for me, it's been worth it in the long run. Gotyu offers sustainable, high-quality period underwear starting at just €23.66 each (bundle price, 2+1 free for €71).

• Absorbency: Period underwear must be tested over a certain period of time to find out which model works best for your period intensity and on which day of your cycle.

Conclusion: The best choice for you?

All options—pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and period underwear—have their own advantages. But for me personally, Gotyu's period underwear is a game changer. It's affordable, comfortable, sustainable, and reliably protects me without the hassle of other products.

Ultimately, choosing the right product depends on what's most important to you: comfort, sustainability, or perhaps even price. Try different options to find what works best for your body. But if you're looking for a solution that combines everything—comfort, sustainability, and reliable protection—Gotyu's period underwear could be just what you need.