Pads
Stick to your underwear and absorb flow externally. Easy to start with, no insertion, great for nights and for beginners. Come in different absorbencies and lengths. Change every 4-6 hours (or sooner on heavy days).
Tampons
Inserted into the vagina to absorb flow internally. Good for sports and swimming. Use the lowest absorbency that works, change every 4-8 hours, and never leave one in overnight beyond 8 hours - to lower the small risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS).
Menstrual cups and discs
Reusable silicone/medical-grade cups (or discs) that collect rather than absorb flow. Eco-friendly and cost-effective, can be worn up to 12 hours. There's a learning curve to insertion; empty, rinse, and reinsert.
Period underwear
Absorbent washable underwear, alone or as backup. Comfortable, reusable, good for light days, sleep, or alongside a tampon/cup. Rinse and machine-wash.
How to choose - and stay safe
Match the product to your flow and activity; many people mix (cup by day, pad at night). Wash hands before insertion, change products regularly, and learn the signs of TSS (sudden high fever, rash, vomiting, dizziness while using a tampon/cup) - remove it and seek urgent care if they appear. Tampons and cups are safe at any age when used as directed.