Period Products 101

Hi Dads!

Knowing what period products are out there, and which ones your daughter might prefer, can feel overwhelming. We’re here to make it simple. Below is a breakdown of the most popular products, how they work, and what you need to know.

Period Products Breakdown

1.♥️ Pads

• What are they? Pads are absorbent strips that stick to the inside of underwear.

• Why she might like them: They’re easy to use, great for beginners, and come in different sizes for light to heavy flow.

• Pro Tip: Look for pads with wings to keep them in place.

2. 💖 Tampons

• What are they? Tampons are small, absorbent cylinders inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual flow.

• Why she might like them: They’re discreet, compact, and perfect for active days (like swimming or sports).

• Pro Tip: Start with a light or regular absorbency option for first-time use.

⬇️ Tampon Size Guide: It’s about flow, not fit.

Light: Absorbs up to 6 ml

Regular: Absorbs 6-9 ml

Super: Absorbs 9-12 ml

Super Plus: Absorbs 12-15 ml

Ultra: Absorbs 15-18 ml

3. 🌟 Menstrual Cups

• What are they? Menstrual cups are reusable silicone cups that collect flow rather than absorbing it.

• Why she might like them: They’re eco-friendly, last up to 12 hours, and save money over time.

• Pro Tip: There’s a learning curve, so it’s best for older girls who are comfortable with their bodies.

4. 🩷 Period Underwear

• What are they? Period underwear look like regular underwear but have built-in absorbent layers.

• Why she might like them: They’re an external option, reusable, and great for light flow or as backup protection.

• Pro Tip: Keep multiple pairs on hand for stress-free rotation during her period.

🏆OUR RECOMMENDATIONS

Before your daughter gets her period, stock the cabinet in the bathroom she uses with pads and “light” tampons. These are the most common practice and when she gets surprised by her period you will be one step closer to reducing the stress on that day. Remember to tell her that she’s still your little girl and this isn’t the end of her childhood. The average age in 2024 for girls to get their periods was 11.9 years old. So stock the cabinet early and lead with empathy. :)

Remember Dad’s - You Got This!

😊 Dad DM Question of the Week

Q: “What if my daughter is nervous about trying one of the options?”

A: Comfort and readiness are key. If she’s hesitant, stick with pads or period underwear until she’s ready to explore other options, but you could stock the cabinet with a couple of the options she’s not comfortable with for when she gets more confident. Ex: If she is using pads, you could put tampons in the cabinet. Tampons are key for if your daughter is in sports or has a swimming unit in gym. These switches can be times of much emotional strain as dealing with this new monthly “friend” is very overwhelming.