Periods 101
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Mooncup vs. Pads: Which period care is right for you?
When it comes to your period, choosing the right product can feel overwhelming - especially with so many options on the market. If you’re narrowing it down to the Mooncup and pads, this guide will tell you everything you need to know. From sustainability to practicality, we’ve got the facts, without the fluff.
Reusable vs Disposable
Mooncup: The Mooncup is a reusable menstrual cup made of soft medical-grade silicone. One cup can last up to 10 years(!) with proper care - that’s over 100 fewer pads or tampons in landfills each year. For eco-conscious women, it’s a winner.
Pads: Biodegradable pads are the greener choice when compared to traditional plastic-filled ones. Mooncup pads break down faster than their synthetic counterparts - faster than a banana! And you can even compost them. Whereas mainstream pads are here forever in landfill. A year of periods? You’re looking at around 240 pads per person. Compare that to one Mooncup, and you get the picture.
Verdict: If you want to cut down on single use, Mooncup is your best option.
Comfort & Usability
Mooncup: Okay, we’re calling it - even the most loyal Mooncup users will tell you it takes a bit of getting used to (about three cycles, on average). From folding and inserting to mastering the suction seal, there’s a bit of a learning curve. But once you've nailed it, it’s a total game-changer. Users often say they feel like they’re not wearing anything - freeing, right?
Pads: Pads, on the other hand, are straightforward. You peel, stick, and go. No insertion required, meaning they’re a solid choice for those who’d rather never think about their vagina like that. But comfort-wise? Pads can sometimes bunch up, cause sweating, or feel bulky - especially on a heavier flow day. Not ideal.
Verdict: Mooncup takes the lead long-term for comfort, but pads win in the ease-of-use department for beginners. Over time, though? Team Mooncup.
How They Work
Mooncup: A menstrual cup collects your flow rather than absorbing it. Made of smooth silicone, it’s folded and inserted (you’ll learn the fold that works best for you). It sits low in the vaginal canal, forming a seal to prevent leaks. You’ll empty and rinse it every 4–8 hours, depending on your flow.
Pads: Pads absorb your flow externally and are available in various sizes and absorbencies. Change them every four to six hours (longer, and things can get a bit funky). They’re fuss-free, but they only manage one cycle before heading to the bin.
Verdict: The Mooncup is a low-maintenance superhero once you’re familiar with it. But if the idea of inserting and emptying isn’t your thing, pads are the no-brainer option.
Maintenance & Cleanliness
Mooncup: It’s all about hygiene. After each use, you’ll rinse your Mooncup with water (or a gentle, unscented soap - nothing harsh, please!). Between cycles, you’ll need to sterilise it, which is as simple as boiling it for 5 minutes or soaking it in a sterilising solution. It’s quick, easy, and keeps your cup clean and odour-free.
Pads: The beauty of pads? There’s no cleaning involved. You wear them, toss them, and move on with your day. But with convenience comes more waste, as well as the ongoing cost of restocking them regularly.
Verdict: Cup care does take a little extra effort, but it’s far from a hassle. Pads score for sheer convenience, but they simply can’t compete with the long-term sustainability of the Mooncup.
Environmental Impact
Mooncup: One Mooncup = 10 years of periods, zero waste. That’s 10 years of saying goodbye to plastic and bleached products in landfills. Eco brownie points? You just hit the jackpot.
Pads: Our pads actually biodegrade faster than a banana and you can compost them! But let's think about the plastic-filled disposable pads? They take around 500–800 years to break down. Not exactly sustainable.
Verdict: No contest. If you’re serious about sustainable periods, the Mooncup leaves pads in the dust.
Who Are They Best For?
- Mooncup: Ideal for eco-conscious women, anyone tired of spending monthly on period products, or those seeking a more lightweight, freeing period experience.
- Pads: Great for beginners, anyone uneasy with insertion, or those who prefer a no-clean-up approach.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to take control of your period, reduce waste, and save money, the Mooncup is a no-brainer. Sure, there’s a bit of a learning curve, but once it clicks (literally - hello, suction seal), you might wonder how you managed without it.
Still on the fence? That’s okay - switching up your menstrual products can feel like a big leap. Why not test the waters? Use both depending on the day, your flow, or your mood.
One thing’s for sure - whatever you choose, the best period care are the ones that work for you
