Pads, tampons, period underwear, cups and discs: how to compare period products in Australia

What the main period product types do

Disposable pads and liners sit in underwear and absorb flow. Period underwear is a reusable absorbent option. Tampons are inserted internally to absorb flow, while menstrual cups and discs are inserted internally to collect it. Healthdirect lists pads, tampons, cups, discs and period underwear among the options people can use.

These formats work differently, so compare products within the same type first. A pack count alone does not tell you how long a product is designed to be used or whether its size and absorbency match your needs.

Compare directions, absorbency and care

Check the exact pack for its size or absorbency, wear and change directions, cleaning or washing steps, storage and disposal. Follow the instructions supplied with that product; labels and care requirements can differ between brands and formats.

Healthdirect notes that reusable menstrual cups and period underwear can be washed and reused. Check the maker's instructions for washing, drying and storing a particular item before using it again.

Choose a format that fits your day-to-day routine

People may weigh up comfort, discretion, changing facilities, washing access, travel, waste and how familiar they feel with a product. You can compare these practical details without assuming that one format will suit everyone. Check the current product label and instructions before buying, especially when a retailer listing uses a short or incomplete product name.

For internal products, read and follow the supplied directions carefully. Healthdirect provides general guidance on menstruation and period products; contact a health professional if you need advice about your own health or product use.

What Australian buyers should know about tampons and cups

The Therapeutic Goods Administration says tampons and menstrual cups are regulated as other therapeutic goods in Australia. It also says these products are exempt from inclusion in the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods and must meet relevant safety, quality and performance standards. Do not treat the absence of an ARTG entry as proof that a product is unlawful or as a quality rating; check current regulator information and the exact product details.

BuyCheck does not test period products or rank them by safety or performance. This guide explains common product formats and points to Australian public information so readers can make a more informed comparison.

Compare the full cost, not just the pack price

For disposable products, compare like-for-like packs and the number of items. For reusable products, compare the upfront price with the maker's care instructions, expected replacement guidance and the parts included. Retailer prices and delivery charges change, so check the current delivered total before buying.

Some BuyCheck retailer links may earn a commission. That does not change the information in this guide, and the source links below go to public health and regulator guidance.

Sources

• healthdirect: menstruation and period product options
• Therapeutic Goods Administration: tampons and menstrual cups in Australia