Our Recommendations: Period Products
- P.O.W.H.E.R.co
- Jun 28
- 5 min read
Updated: Jul 8
Tampons & Menstrual Pads Edition
When it comes to managing your period, the products you choose, particularly pads and tampons, aren’t just about comfort. They play a vital role in your health, hygiene, lifestyle, and overall well-being.
First Period:
On April 2020, Easter Morning, I woke up to Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, two recurve bows, and my first period. As if COVID-19 lock down wasn’t enough, I was also figuring out what it meant to be starting my period. However, I was fortunate enough to have my mom. She bought every product imaginable: pads, tampons, menstrual cups, period panties, you name it. She wanted to be prepared, but also make sure that I was prepared as well.
So, you might be wondering, what role Easter and recurve bows play in this story… Well, having just received two recurve bows from my mom & dad (The Easter Bunny), I of course wanted to learn how to use said bows & arrows. Truly living my dreams of being in the movies Avatar or Brave, it was very exciting.
What I was not excited about was going to the bathroom before going to set up a target board and learning I now have this thing called a period? Yes, I knew that I would eventually get my period, that's just part of being a girl. Did I expect to get in on this happy holiday? No, and a funny coincidence is that my period seems to always show up on holidays, while traveling, or when I am supposed to be doing something important. Talk about inconvenience.
Anyways, back to the story, I went back outside and whispered in my moms ear: “Mom I think I got my period.” You could say I was a bit shy about it. Did I need to be? No, it's a part of life. Tell that to my 7th grade self. My mom brought me to her and my dads bathroom, where I learned all about her now extensive collection of period products, just for this situation. My mom had a hysterectomy in 2009, so she bought these products just for me. Do I want to use pads, tampons, or a cup? Am I supposed to know this all right now? Were all thoughts that floated around my mind.
Long story short, I started by using pads. They seemed less scary than a tampon. However, being an athlete I eventually made the shift to tampons, and only use pads at night or in dire circumstances. And period panties… life saver. Nothing like having to worry about leaking while jumping a personal record in the High Jump, that would have royally sucked. The bright side I guess is that my athletic shorts are black.
All jokes aside. Getting your period is scary, and while it is definitely a rite of passage, it's also something you are not truly prepared for until it happens. There are so many products out there now, way more than before, and sometimes it takes a bit of trial and error to figure out what works best for you. I know for myself that I tried a few different brands before I settled on CORA. However, after doing some more research I have found similar companies, including CORA, listed below, that I would comfortably use should I need to.
I am thankful everyday to have a mom, who is as helpful and open about these topics as she is. Not everyone has that person in their lives who is as prepared and ready, but I would encourage more people to be that person in someone's life, your friends, daughters, nieces, or cousins. I aspire to be that person to whomever I can. For more information about being that person in someone's life, please also check out our "Real Care " page for some conversation guidelines and resources.
Periods are complicated, but with solid information, our team at POWHER is hoping to alleviate some of that stress surrounding getting your period. One step we have taken is by creating a list of recommended products and information about period products in general.
~ Elaina Kristine Head, Founder & CEO
Information
Comfort & Fit:
Everyone’s body is different, and so are their periods. Some people feel more comfortable using pads, especially for lighter flow days or overnight. Others may prefer tampons for a more discreet feel and greater freedom of movement. Choosing the right size and absorbency can reduce irritation and prevent leaks.
Health Risks:
Using the wrong product, or using it incorrectly, can lead to health issues. For instance, wearing a tampon for too long increases the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a rare but serious condition. Pads, while generally lower risk in this area, can cause irritation if not changed regularly. It's crucial to understand how to use each product safely.
Absorbency Levels:
Both pads and tampons come in different absorbencies (light, regular, super, etc.). Choosing the right one for your flow helps you stay dry and avoid unnecessary discomfort. Using higher absorbency than needed, especially with tampons, can dry out your vaginal walls and upset your body’s natural balance.
Activity & Lifestyle:
If you're active, playing sports, swimming, or just on the go, tampons might be more convenient. But if you’re staying home or prefer a non-internal option, pads could be a better choice. Having both on hand lets you adapt to your needs.
Environmental & Ethical Considerations:
Many are now paying attention to organic or sustainable options. Some pads and tampons contain fragrances or plastic components that may irritate sensitive skin or harm the environment. Opting for biodegradable, chemical-free products is a growing priority for health- and eco-conscious users.
This is why we have put together a list of four companies (3 companies for tampons & 3 companies for menstrual pads), that consider these environmental factors, sustainability, and first and foremost comfortability.
Tampon Recommendations:
Our top three picks: Organic Cotton Tampons
LOLA Tampons
CORA Tampons
The Honey Pot Tampons
LOLA:
LOLA tampons are made of 100% Organic Cotton.
Three application styles: BPA-free plastic applicator, cardboard, or applicator-free.
Sizes offered: light, regular, super, super+
Eco-friendly, biodegradable, hypoallergenic.
CORA:
CORA tampons are made of 100% Organic Cotton.
Two application styles: BPA-free plastic applicator or applicator-free.
Sizes offered: light, regular, super, super+
Known to be super absorbent
The Honey Pot:
The Honey Pot tampons are made of 100% Organic Cotton.
Two application styles: BPA-free bio-plastic applicator.
Sizes offered: regular & super
100% recyclable packaging.
Offers a duo pack of the sizes.
Menstrual Pad Recommendations:
Our top three picks: Organic Cotton Pads
The Honey Pot Pads
Rael Pads
CORA Pads
The Honey Pot:
The Honey Pot pads are made of 100% Organic Cotton.
Pads have wings.
Assortment offered: pantyliners through overnight
Herbal Infused options: mint, lavender, & aloe.
Biodegradable.
Rael:
Rael pads are made of Texan Organic Cotton & Chlorine-Free Pulp.
Pads have wings.
Assortment offered: petite through overnight, light-to-heavy sets
Recyclable packaging.
CORA:
CORA pads are made of 100% Organic Cotton & chlorine-free wood pulp.
Pads have wings.
Assortment offered: regular through extra heavy overnight pads
Thin profile, not super bulky.
Follow along on Instagram @powher.co for more real information, shared stories, and tools that support your power. 🩷
We’d love to hear your stories and if you have tried these products, or any other brands that you've used in the past that are similar to these. Your voice matters, and your experiences helps us all grow.
With love,
POWHER.co
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