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I so passionately hate single-use menstrual pads.

And not necessarily *just* because they’re extremely polluting since they’re made of a synthetic mix of materials and can’t be recycled, making them quite bad for our planet.

I think the main reason is – they’re so goddamn uncomfortable.

It’s like it’s not enough that we’re bleeding, enduring menstrual cramps, and other “fun” things, every single month, but we also have to deal with something that feels alien to our bodies.

Due to some period complications, I couldn’t use my menstrual cup for a couple of months. I was traveling, so, the only “solution” was single-use pads.

Oh my god. I forgot how extremely uncomfortable, and quite frankly, horrible they are.

So, why am I writing all of this?

Because I believe there are way better alternatives to this outdated, crappy product.

I’ve tried all the sustainable menstrual products: cups, discs, reusable pads, and period underwear. Each has its pros and cons, and in this post, I’ll explain each one to help you find what will work best for you.

All of these options are safe, COMFORTABLE, and better for your body – plus, they’re kinder to our planet.

Without further hate, let’s jump right into the alternatives.

1. Menstrual cup – my #1 favorite

I’ve been a loyal menstrual cup user for over 5 years now, and honestly, it’s hard to imagine any other alternative topping this list. It’s eco-friendly, cost-effective, and super comfortable once you get the hang of it.

I have tons of content, covering everything from choosing the best menstrual cup for you, how to insert and remove it to how to clean your cup properly, and troubleshooting any issues.

Brands that I like include: AllMatters (the first one I got), Flex (the second I own), Saalt or Lena (softer options).

If you’re curious or just starting, I also have a completely free e-book that’s all about menstrual cups – you can get access to it for free on your email:

Pros:

✔ Eco & wallet-friendly: One cup last 5-10 years, drastically reducing waste and cost.
✔ Super comfortable: Once inserted properly, you can barely feel it.
✔ All-day protection: Can be worn for up to 12 hours without leaks. This is only if your period isn’t super heavy, though. [you can still find menstrual cups for heavy periods here]
✔ Great for active lifestyles: Works for sports, swimming, sleeping, and everything in between.

Cons:

✖ Learning curve: Takes a couple of cycles to get comfortable with insertion/removal.
✖ Can be a bit messy at first: Emptying it in public restrooms can be tricky (but you get used to it).
✖ Not for everyone: Some people find insertion uncomfortable, especially with conditions like vaginismus.

2. Menstrual disc – a new top pick

I’m still new to the menstrual disc scene, but so far it seems promising. I recently got Intimina’s Ziggy Cup 2, and I’ve been pleasantly surprised. Inserting it is a bit trickier for me since it’s softer than a cup, which makes it a little harder to maneuver. 

I’ve also read that removal can get messier than a cup, so until I get used to it, I remove it over the toilet or in the shower, to keep things mess-free. 

If you wonder what is the biggest difference between cups and discs, it is 1) their shape and 2) where they sit inside the body:

1. A menstrual cup is usually bell-shaped with a stem, while a menstrual disc is flat, and round, like a soft, flexible ring with a thin pocket for collecting blood.
2. A cup sits in the vaginal canal and creates suction, while a disc tucks behind the pubic bone and stays in place with support, not suction.

Discs can be worn during sex and usually hold more liquid. Most menstrual cups hold around 20-30 ml of blood, while menstrual discs can hold 40-60ml, so double the capacity. 

You can check these brands: Intimina’s Ziggy Cup 2, Flex disc, or Saalt disc.

Pros:

✔ No suction: Unlike cups, it sits in the vaginal fornix, which some people find more comfortable.
✔ Holds more blood: Generally higher capacity than menstrual cups, making it ideal for heavy flows, too.
✔ Mess-free sex: Can be worn during sex without making a mess.

Cons:

✖ Steeper learning curve: The positioning is different from a cup, so it takes practice to get used to.
✖ Can be messy to remove: Since there’s no suction, it may spill more easily during removal.
✖ Trickier to position at first: If not placed correctly, it may shift and cause leaks.

3. Menstrual undies – great for sleeping & light days

These are a game changer when it comes to a backup or for those days when you just want to chill at home. I own a few pairs from Modibodi, and they offer different absorbencies for lighter or heavier flow days. Other cool brands with lots of options are Thinx and Wuka.

I find them alright, but they’re not my go-to for everyday use. That said, I have friends who swear by them and even prefer them over cups – so they might be your thing too.

Pros:

✔ Comfy: Feels like wearing regular underwear.
✔ Great for overnight use: No shifting or worrying about leaks while sleeping.
✔ Low-maintenance: Just toss them in the wash (no complicated care routine).
✔ Good for light days: Perfect for spotting, light flow, or as a backup.

Cons:

✖ Not ideal for heavy flow: May require frequent changing if used alone.
✖ Takes a while to dry: Since they have absorbent layers, air-drying can take time.
✖ Can be pricey: High-quality pairs can be pricier, especially if you need multiple.

4. Reusable pads – a solid backup option

Years ago, my first switch to sustainable period products was with reusable pads. The ones I got were fine, but I think they were a bit too thick for my liking, so I eventually switched to a menstrual cup.

That said, I have friends who prefer and rely on reusable pads, so they work well for some people. If putting something inside you feels like too much or just a bit odd for now, reusable pads might be just what you’re looking for.

Pixie cotton pads and Rael reusable pads seem promising.

Pros:

✔ Familiar & easy to use: No need for insertion, just snap them onto underwear.
✔ Variety of options: Comes in different thicknesses, absorbencies, and materials.
✔ Breathable & softer: More comfortable than plastic-based disposable pads.
✔ Eco-friendly: Washable and reusable for years, reducing waste.

Cons:

✖ Bulky feel: Some models (especially thicker ones) can feel like diapers.
✖ Can shift around: Without adhesive, some pads move out of place.
✖ Washing can be a hassle: Need to rinse & soak before tossing in the laundry.

5. Bonus: eco-friendly disposable pads & tampons – an “emergency” option

Not ideal, but hey – sometimes things happen, and we just need a quick, convenient option.

If you ever find yourself reaching for disposables, biodegradable or organic pads, and tampons are a better choice than the conventional, plastic-filled ones. 

Check Fluus, Daye, Viv, or Natracare for better pads, and Here We Flo, Tampon Tribe, or Cora for better tampons.

To be honest, this is the only thing on the list I haven’t tried, but they seem alright. If you’ve used any of these and liked or disliked them, I’d love to hear your thoughts – drop your experience in the comments.

Pros:

✔ Sustainable materials: Made from organic cotton, bamboo, or cornstarch-based materials.
✔ Compostable & biodegradable: Breaks down faster than plastic-based disposables.
✔ Convenient for travel: A good backup when you’re on the go and can’t boil your cup or wash reusable products.

Cons:

✖ Still single-use: Even though they break down faster, they still create waste.
✖ More expensive: Costlier than regular disposable pads.
✖ Less available: Not as easy to find in stores compared to mainstream pads/tampons.

Final thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to sustainable menstruation, but exploring these alternatives can make a huge difference -both for your comfort and for the planet.

Whether you’re a cup fan, a disc lover, or just starting your sustainable period journey, each option offers a way to ditch the waste and discomfort of single-use pads.

What works best for you might take some trial and error, but every step toward a more sustainable period is a win for both our bodies and the environment.

And honestly? If any of these help you stop buying crappy single-use pads, I’ll be happy.