During menstruation the menstrual fluid needs to be absorbed and disposed off in the right manner. This can be done using any of the following products:

  1. Disposable sanitary pad: This is an absorbent pad worn between the vulva and the underwear.
  2. Reusable cloth pad: This is a sanitary pad made of cloth that can be washed and reused.
  3. Tampon: This is a mass of absorbent material that is inserted in the vagina to absorb menstrual fluid.
  4. Menstrual cup: This is a bell shaped cup usually made of silicone that is inserted in the vagina to collect the menstrual fluid to dispose it later. Menstrual cups can be washed and reused.

Illustration of disposable sanitary pad, reusable cloth pad, tampon and menstrual cup - Menstrupedia