Managing Your Period: Products, Comfort & Confidence

Every body is different, and so is every period.

Some prefer the familiarity of pads, while others find the freedom of period underwear more appealing, and some find reusable products to be the best fit. There is no single right way to manage your period; choose what feels comfortable, safe, and empowering for you.

At New Moon, our shop and kits are shaped by three generations of experience. We blend wisdom, practicality, and modern comfort to help every menstruator confidently find products that meet their needs.

Pads

What they are: Pads are soft, absorbent liners that adhere to your underwear to collect menstrual blood.

Types of Pads:

• Panty liners – Light absorbency for spotting or the start/end of your period.

• Regular or day pads – Medium absorbency for daily wear.

• Night or overnight pads – Longer and more absorbent to prevent leaks while you sleep.

• With or without wings – Wings fold around underwear to help keep the pad in place.

• Disposable or reusable cloth pads – Choose the option that aligns with your comfort and sustainability goals.

Pros:

• Easy to use, especially for beginners.

• No insertion required.

• Great for heavy flow days or overnight use.

• Widely available and disposable (or reusable if made from cloth).

Cons:

• Need to be changed every 3–4 hours.

• May feel bulky or shift if not secured properly.

• Not always the most eco-friendly option unless reusable.

New Moon Tip: Pads are a great starting point. Our First Period Kits include options carefully selected for their softness, comfort, and reliability.

Period Underwear

What it is: Period underwear is reusable and has built-in absorbent layers to hold menstrual flow, eliminating the need for additional pads or tampons.

Pros:

• Comfortable and breathable, they feel just like regular underwear.

• Eco-friendly and reusable. Just wash, dry, and wear them again.

• Perfect for school, sleep, or extra protection on heavier days.

Cons:

• More expensive upfront, but cost-effective in the long run.

• You’ll need multiple pairs for a full cycle.

New Moon Tip: All New Moon Kits include period underwear. We’ve tested many styles across generations for comfort, leak protection, and inclusive sizing.

Tampons

Tampons are soft cotton cylinders inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual blood before it leaves the body.

Types of Tampons:

• Applicator tampons – Come with a plastic or cardboard applicator to make insertion easier.

• Non-applicator tampons – Inserted using your fingers, often with less packaging.

• Organic tampons – Made from 100% cotton, free from dyes and fragrances.

• Different absorbencies – From “light” to “super plus,” depending on your flow.

Pros:

• Discreet and convenient for swimming or active days.

• Can be worn up to 8 hours (depending on flow).

• A variety of absorbencies are available.

Cons:

• Requires comfortable insertion, which can take some practice.

• Not recommended overnight.

• Must be changed regularly to avoid irritation or infection.

New Moon Tip: If you’re just starting, try tampons at home first. It’s normal if it takes time; everyone learns at their own pace.

Menstrual Cups

Menstrual cups are flexible silicone or rubber cups inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood.

Pros:

• Reusable and eco-friendly (can last for years).

• It can be worn for 8 to 12 hours.

• Great for active lifestyles and swimming.

Cons:

• Learning curve for insertion and removal.

• Requires cleaning between uses.

• Not everyone finds them comfortable at first.

New Moon Tip: Menstrual cups can increase comfort and sustainability, but they may not be suitable for everyone. Try them when ready and always read care instructions carefully.

Menstrual Discs

Menstrual discs are flexible, flat discs made of medical-grade silicone that sit at the base of the cervix to collect menstrual blood.

Pros:

• Can be worn for up to 12 hours.

• Comfortable and nearly undetectable once in place.

• Suitable for sex during menstruation (unlike cups or tampons).

• Reusable or disposable options are available.

Cons:

• It can take practice to insert and remove.

• Some find them messy during removal.

New Moon Tip: Discs offer long wear and fewer changes. Once you learn to insert them, they can be a freeing option.

Menstrual Sponges

Natural sea sponges or synthetic alternatives are inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual flow.

Pros:

• Soft, flexible, and shaped to your body.

• It can be reused for several months with proper cleaning and maintenance.

• It can be worn during swimming or physical activity.

Cons:

• Must be thoroughly cleaned and sanitised between uses.

• Natural sponges vary in shape and absorbency.

• Some people may be sensitive to natural materials.

New Moon Tip: If you’re curious about natural options, menstrual sponges are a gentle and reusable alternative. Care for and clean them between cycles.

Reusable Pads & Liners

Reusable pads and liners are washable cloth products that can be used multiple times per cycle.

Pros:

• Sustainable and long-lasting.

• Breathable and gentle on skin.

• Available in various patterns and absorbencies.

Cons:

• Need to be rinsed and washed after use.

• Slightly bulkier than disposables.

New Moon Tip: Reusable pads reduce waste and can help avoid irritation from synthetic materials. They’re also easy to wash discreetly at home.

Choosing What’s Right for You

There isn’t one best product. The right choice depends on your body, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Many people use a combination, such as:

• Pads or period underwear for sleep

• Tampons, cups, or discs during the day

• Reusable pads or sponges for lighter days

Try different options until you find what helps you feel confident, protected, and comfortable.

The New Moon Way

Everyone’s menstruation experience is unique, shaped by culture, comfort, and history. That’s why New Moon Kits use three generations of experience, blending practical know-how, modern design, and gentle self-care essentials.

Each product in our shop is carefully selected to cater to diverse bodies, needs, and preferences. We believe everyone deserves comfort, preparation, and pride in their body.

In Summary

Managing your period is about more than products; it’s about confidence, knowledge, and care. Understanding your options helps you take charge and feel your best. Whether it’s your first period or your fiftieth, New Moon is here to guide you with comfort, compassion, and support every step of the way.