A recent study revealed that some of the most popular sanitary napkin brands in India contain harmful, and even cancer-causing chemicals.
Despite the news, women share why sanitary pads are their preferred period product.
Suhasini Jaipuria, 28, New Delhi I have not tried tampons or cups but since I have always used pads, I’ve always felt more comfortable with the idea of them rather than using something that is inserted in.
Kanushree Jajoo, 25, Mumbai I have heard stories where inserting the tampon in the vagina has gone wrong & was treated as a medical emergency. I'm concerned of the hygiene of the tampon/cup as they might have some unseen germs which can get inside our body.
Dr Janani Dakshina Moorthy, 33, Chennai Pads are better for people who are allergic to certain material. I prefer them since they are convenient, need not be emptied frequently, & are easily accessible.
Aayushi Kanodia, 36, Chennai I like the flexibility pads offer. I can opt for a heavy duty on heavy flow days or cotton liner for spotting or days when my skin is super sensitive or irritated.
Mridula Maloo, 47, Mumbai I have been using pads since my childhood, and so I'm very used to it, and it's quite comfortable. As I'm in perimenopause right now, I don’t want to try new things because I'm bleeding so much.
Deepali Garg, 49, Mumbai I might look old fashion but I'm comfortable in pads, & they're easily available in every shop. When I’m outside, it's difficult to boil & clean menstrual cups if I am travelling, so my vote is for pads over tampons or cups.
Reetika Sarraf, 23, Gurgaon I believe being an Indian here comes to play. I have never used tampons or cups. The fact that they are supposed to be inserted inside your body makes it unhygienic for me and pads feel like a more comfortable choice.
Nivi Shah, 24, Hyderabad I don't use tampons & cups because you have to insert it. Removing cups or tampons that are full of blood seems scary & hurtful. Also, while travelling you can change pads even if you don't have a washroom, but you can't do that with cups.
Avantika Agiwal, 22, Noida I think if something wants to come out of me by nature, I should let it instead of storing it in me. Pads are external and preferable.
Saakshi Maloo, 19, Pune Since I was a teenager I've been using pads and its what I'm comfortable with. However, I'm willing to try different products that are sustainable in the long run, but I'm scared of cups and tampons.