11 Feminine Hygiene Products Indian Women Should Know About

Disposable sanitary pads are the most widely recognised menstrual product in India. They are single-use absorbent pads worn inside underwear to collect menstrual flow, and a 2025 Odisha study found high reported use of sanitary pads among participants (Frontiers in Global Women’s Health, 2025). Pads come in many varieties — thin, extra-absorbent, winged, and longer-night versions — so pick the one that fits your flow and comfort needs. Government and NGO programs often provide subsidised pads through schools and health centres, which helps reach more people in rural areas, yet the same study reported varying satisfaction with different supply programs (Frontiers in Global Women’s Health, 2025). Disposal is a major issue: many used pads are buried or thrown into rivers, which creates sanitation problems; the Odisha research noted concerning disposal trends in some locations (Frontiers in Global Women’s Health, 2025). For everyday use, change pads regularly, wrap them before discarding, and look for local municipal guidance on disposal. If the supplied pads cause irritation, try a different thickness or a hypoallergenic variant and consult a health worker if irritation persists.

2. Traditional cloth materials — Affordable, familiar, safe when managed carefully

Traditional cloth has been the backbone of menstrual care in many Indian homes for generations. Women cut and fold fabric to absorb their period flow and wash it for reuse, a practice still common in many rural areas due to cost and availability reasons; research indicates substantial reliance on cloth in some communities (Research findings). Cloth can be safe when handled correctly: wash with clean water and mild soap, dry fully in direct sunlight, and store in a clean, dry place between cycles. Sunlight helps reduce microbes and is an affordable disinfectant many households can use. The downsides include privacy challenges for drying in shared spaces and a risk of infections if fabric stays damp or is not cleaned thoroughly. If privacy is limited, consider discreet drying methods like indoor drying racks in well-ventilated rooms or using a separate drying cloth after sun-drying. For many families, cloth remains the most economical option, and with careful cleaning and storage, it can be a hygienic one too. If you notice unusual discharge or burning, seek local care rather than changing materials without medical advice.

3. Reusable cloth pads (modern) — A cleaner, more reliable reusable option

Modern reusable cloth pads are a step up from traditional fabrics. They’re designed with multiple layers, a waterproof backing, and snaps to stay in place, making them easier to wash and manage than improvised cloth. These pads can save money over time and produce less waste than disposables, which appeals to eco-conscious households or women who menstruate frequently. For care, rinse the pad in cold water after use, wash with a mild detergent, and sun-dry completely to lower infection risk. In Indian weather, sun-drying works well, but in monsoon months you may need indoor drying racks in a ventilated space. Expect an initial cost higher than a single pack of disposable pads, but the pads typically last several years with proper care. They are a good fit for women who value sustainability and privacy, such as those who live in joint families and prefer washing at home. If you have heavy flow, use reusable pads as backup with another option or look for higher-absorbency styles. Check product descriptions for absorbency levels and stitching quality before buying to ensure long-term value.

4. Menstrual cups — Low-waste, cost-effective once learned

Menstrual cups are flexible silicone or rubber cups inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood. They hold more fluid than most pads, can be worn for up to eight hours depending on flow, and create far less waste than single-use pads. Once you learn to insert and clean a cup, it’s a discreet, economical option that suits many lifestyles, including travel and work. Challenges in some Indian settings include the learning curve, local acceptance, and access to cleaning facilities in public restrooms. For hygiene, wash hands before inserting or removing the cup, rinse with clean water, and sterilise between cycles by boiling if the product instructions recommend it. If you have certain medical conditions or an intrauterine device, speak with a clinician before trying a cup. Several community programs and online retailers now stock cups, and health educators sometimes offer demonstrations to build comfort. For many women, a cup reduces monthly waste and recurring costs, but it requires a bit of patience to master the technique.

5. Tampons — Internal protection with caveats for Indian context

Tampons are absorbent plugs inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual flow internally. They can be convenient for swimming, sports, or tight clothing since they don’t show under clothes, but they are less commonly used across India than pads. Safety is generally good if tampons are used correctly, but users should be aware of rare conditions like toxic shock syndrome (TSS); proper change frequency and hygiene reduce this risk substantially. Accessibility and privacy can be barriers in some towns and villages, since buying tampons might feel uncomfortable for some women; discreet packaging helps. Tampons also create disposal issues; never flush them down the toilet unless packaging says “flushable,” and wrap them before discarding. For first-time users, start with lower-absorbency tampons and follow package instructions closely. If you notice strong odors or unusual symptoms, remove the tampon and seek medical help. As with any internal product, personal comfort varies — some women try tampons briefly and return to external options, while others adopt them regularly for specific activities.

6. Period underwear — Comfortable, low-fuss alternative

Period underwear looks and feels like regular underwear but contains built-in absorbent layers to hold menstrual flow. It works well for light-to-moderate days or as backup with another product on heavier days. The main conveniences are comfort and ease of use: wear, wash, and reuse, avoiding frequent pad changes and packaging waste. Caring for period underwear means rinsing after use, washing with a gentle detergent, and thoroughly air-drying in the sun when possible to keep fabrics fresh and reduce microbes. The upfront cost can be higher than a pack of pads, but the garments last many washes if treated gently, offering savings over time. In the Indian context, consider rapid drying fabric options or keeping a small stack to rotate during humid months. Period underwear is especially good for students, working women, or those with sensitive skin, and it reduces the need to dispose of single-use items daily. Check product absorbency ratings and reviews, and buy from vendors that clearly state washing instructions.

7. Government-provided sanitary products (Menstrual Hygiene Scheme, Khusi) — Affordability and reach

Government programs aim to expand access to menstrual products, especially among adolescents and rural communities. The national Menstrual Hygiene Scheme focuses on supplying sanitary napkins and education through schools and health centres, while state initiatives like Odisha’s Khusi program show how focused state schemes can tailor distribution and support local logistics (Frontiers in Global Women’s Health, 2025). These programs lower costs and raise awareness, but a study noted mixed satisfaction levels and variable product quality depending on suppliers (Frontiers in Global Women’s Health, 2025). To use these services, check with your local anganwadi, school health worker, or primary health centre. Programs often bundle product distribution with period education and disposal guidance, which helps reduce stigma and improve correct use. If government products don’t suit your comfort or cause irritation, combine them with commercially bought options as needed. Community feedback and local health worker input can often improve supply choices and ensure better acceptance among adolescent girls and women alike.

8. Intimate pH-balanced washes — Gentle daily care, used correctly

Intimate washes are formulated to match the natural pH of the vulva and help maintain gentle cleansing without stripping protective flora. Health platforms in India advise against using regular soap for intimate areas because it can cause dryness and irritation; instead, choose a mild, pH-balanced wash labeled for external use only (PharmEasy). Avoid heavily fragranced products, which increase the risk of irritation or allergic reactions for sensitive skin. Use washes sparingly: daily gentle cleansing with water is usually sufficient, and a targeted intimate wash can be helpful during heavy activity or after long travel. If you have recurrent infections or unusual symptoms like strong odor or abnormal discharge, see a clinician before relying on over-the-counter washes. Proper laundry and menstrual product hygiene also support intimate health, so coordinate product use with good washing, drying, and storage habits.

9. Feminine wipes — Convenience for travel and public situations

Feminine wipes offer quick, discreet cleaning when a full wash isn’t possible, making them handy during travel, long commutes, or festival days. For safety, choose unscented, alcohol-free wipes to lower the chance of skin irritation, and use them as an occasional convenience rather than a daily substitute for washing. Disposal practices matter: never flush wipes down toilets, as they can block sewers, and always wrap and put them in bins. In many Indian contexts where public toilets are basic or water access is limited, wipes can feel liberating, but consider carrying a small sealable bag for used wipes until you can discard them properly. Environmental impact is real, so balance convenience with reduced frequency of use or seek biodegradable options when available. For students and office-goers, a travel hygiene kit with wipes, a small soap bar, and a fresh pair of underwear covers most short-term needs discreetly and affordably.

10. Biodegradable pads & disposal solutions — Reduce environmental impact

Biodegradable pads are designed to break down more quickly than conventional pads, reducing long-term waste, and some brands use plant-based materials for topsheets or packaging. However, true biodegradability depends on disposal conditions; many products require industrial composting to degrade fully, which is not widely available in all Indian municipalities. Community-level disposal solutions and NGO projects have piloted village composting or safe collection systems to manage menstrual waste better, and such models are promising for rural sanitation (Research findings). If you choose biodegradable pads, confirm the manufacturer’s claims and recommended disposal method. Household steps that help include wrapping used pads in paper or the pad’s original wrapper, using sealed bins, and participating in local collection programs where available. Panchayats and urban local bodies can coordinate pilot projects for safer disposal to avoid the common but harmful practice of burying used products observed in some studies (Frontiers in Global Women’s Health, 2025).

11. Vaginal probiotics and doctor-recommended supplements — Supportive care with guidance

Vaginal probiotics and certain oral supplements are marketed to support a healthy balance of vaginal flora and may be suggested for recurrent bacterial vaginosis or after antibiotic use. These products vary widely in strains and strength, so clinical guidance matters: consult a clinician before starting any probiotic regimen rather than self-prescribing. Probiotics do not replace basic hygiene practices but can complement treatment plans when recommended by a healthcare provider. If you have recurring symptoms like persistent discharge, burning, or odour, get a proper diagnosis rather than relying on over-the-counter supplements alone. A health worker can suggest evidence-based options, advise on timing relative to antibiotics, and recommend brands with quality control. Remember that product quality matters, and only use doctor-recommended or pharmacy-sourced items from reputable suppliers rather than unlabelled or unverified products.

Wrap-up: Practical next steps for safer, dignified hygiene

Choosing feminine hygiene products is a personal decision shaped by comfort, cost, local availability, and cultural preferences. Start by matching a product to your daily needs: disposable pads or government supplies might be the best short-term fit, while reusable pads, menstrual cups, or period underwear can save money and reduce waste over time. Wherever you live, practise safe cleaning — wash reusable items thoroughly, sun-dry fabric if possible, and store products hygienically to reduce infection risks. For intimate cleansing, prefer pH-balanced washes or plain water instead of harsh soaps, and use unscented, alcohol-free wipes only when necessary (PharmEasy). If you experience persistent symptoms such as unusual discharge, odor, or burning, consult a local clinician rather than relying on self-care alone. Remember disposal: wrap used products, do not flush wipes or tampons unless labeled flushable, and follow municipal guidance or community collection schemes to avoid environmental harm. Check for government access programs like the Menstrual Hygiene Scheme or Odisha’s Khusi for subsidised supplies and education (Frontiers in Global Women’s Health, 2025). Small steps—better washing, clear disposal, and asking health workers for advice—add up to safer, more dignified menstrual and intimate care for women across India and beyond.