Reusable period products: definition and meaning
Reusable period products are menstrual products designed to be cleaned and used for many cycles instead of thrown away. The main types are menstrual cups, reusable discs, period underwear and washable cloth pads. They cost more upfront but usually save money within a few months, and they cut down on waste from disposable pads and tampons.
The main types
| Product | Worn | Lasts | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Menstrual cup | inside, up to 12 hours | up to 10 years | fitting takes practice |
| Reusable menstrual disc | inside, under the cervix, up to 12 hours | 1 to several years | can be worn during sex |
| Period underwear | outside, as underwear | about 2 years | great for light days, sleep and backup |
| Cloth pads | outside, snapped to underwear | several years | simple and comfortable |
Pros and cons
- Pros: lower long-term cost, less waste, fewer emergency shop runs, fewer chemicals touching skin for some people.
- Cons: upfront cost, learning curve, need to wash or boil, harder in public toilets without a sink.
- Safety: internal products carry a very small TSS risk; clean as the maker advises and wash hands.
Choosing what suits you
Think about your flow, your routine and how comfortable you are with insertion. Many people mix: a cup for busy days, period underwear overnight. If you have very heavy menstrual bleeding, a cup can also help you measure your loss, useful to share with a doctor. Compare options in menstrual cup vs tampon.
Have an IUD? Some cups and discs create suction, which in rare cases has pulled on IUD strings. Break the seal fully before removing, and ask your clinician.
Reusables can also help with period poverty, as one purchase covers years of cycles.
Frequently asked questions
Are reusable period products hygienic?
Yes, when cleaned as directed: rinse in cold water, wash, and boil or sanitize cups between cycles.
Can teenagers use reusable products?
Yes. Period underwear and cloth pads are easy first options, and smaller cups are made for younger users.
Sources
- van Eijk AM et al. Menstrual cup use, leakage, acceptability, safety, and availability: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet Public Health (2019)
- NHS: Periods
This page is for information only and isn鈥檛 medical advice. If something worries you, please talk to a doctor.
Keep reading
Menstrual cup: definition and meaningA menstrual cup is a reusable silicone cup worn inside the vagina to collect period blood. How it works, how long you can wear it, and safety tips.Period underwear: definition and meaningPeriod underwear (period pants) are washable briefs with an absorbent layer that holds period blood. How they work, how long to wear them, and care tips.What is a menstrual disc?A menstrual disc is a flat, flexible period product that sits in the vaginal fornix to collect blood. How it differs from a cup, and how to use one.
Menstrual cup vs tampon: which is better for you?Menstrual cup vs tampon: how they compare on leaks, wear time, TSS risk, cost and comfort, based on research, so you can pick what suits your period.First period kit checklist: what to pack for schoolA first period kit checklist for school bags and home: what to pack, which pads to choose, what to say to your child, and small comforts for day one.