DISCUSSING DISCS

5 reasons to educate your teen on menstrual discs...

As parents, we want to make sure that our children are supported and empowered through life’s biggest changes. One of the best ways to do this is by talking openly and honestly about what they’re going through.

So why, when it comes to period talk, does the conversation often still feel awkward?

Never before have we seen a generation that is more socially aware, environmentally conscious, and generally informed. Supporting your teen on their period journey will not only allow them to find a solution that fits their values and lifestyle but is an amazing opportunity to evolve your relationship with them by better understanding their needs.

These conversations won't just help them manage bleeding – it can also empower them to make informed choices for their bodies and lifestyles.

Help them find their perfect fit

There are so many period products on the market these days, from traditional options like pads and tampons to period cups, menstrual discs, reusable pads, and period undies. The evolution of these products points to a truth that for so long was swept under the rug: when it comes to period products, one size does not fit all.

If they want something that allows them to comfortably exercise, swim, or manage a heavier flow, a menstrual disc is a great option. For younger people or those who aren’t comfortable inserting period products, reusable pads or period underwear is a sustainable and comfortable alternative.

When it comes to finding the right fit, it may take a few tries to find what really works for your teen. To help with this, many high- quality brands offer personalised support and guidance to teenagers. We love helping teens find out more about their bodies and often have mums message us in Hey Zomi’s online chat to determine if a disc will be right for them.

Navigating the stigma around menstruation

Adolescence is already a time of great change and uncertainty, and the taboo surrounding menstruation can exacerbate these feelings. By opening ourselves up and normalising the conversation, we can remove the uncertainty and embarrassment that often accompanies periods.

When I was a teen, periods weren’t talked about much in my friend group, and while I had a very supportive mum, the resources and options we have today simply weren’t available. I, like all my friends, defaulted to pads before eventually moving to tampons, all the while feeling intense social stress around changing pads and tampons at school. My mentality was to just survive my period each month. Looking back, it was such a missed opportunity for me to better understand my body at such a young age.

Having open, vulnerable discussions about menstruation is the only way to remove the stigma around menstruation. Talking openly can reduce the risk of potential health issues like leaving a tampon in for too long or experiencing period pain that indicates a more serious issue.

Choosing the more sustainable option

Today's generation is more environmentally conscious than ever before and looking for ways to make a positive impact on the world around them. With research showing that a menstruator will send anywhere between 5,000 and 15,000 pads and tampons to landfills over the course of their lifetime, sustainable period products are an excellent way to reduce waste and contribute to a healthier planet.

Encouraging your teen to consider menstrual discs or other reusable period products will allow them the opportunity to align their personal choices with their beliefs. No longer does the sustainable option mean a sacrifice to comfort or lifestyle. Many high-quality, medical-grade menstrual discs can last up to 10 years with proper care, making them a great alternative for the environmentally conscious teen.

Minimise pain as much as possible

Wearing a period product should not be a painful experience. While many menstruators are simply used to dealing with discomfort while on their periods, what it really comes down to is finding a comfortable, pain-free product that allows you to enjoy your lifestyle while wearing it.

For many people, a menstrual disc can be the most comfortable option as it sits underneath the cervix and moulds gently to the body's shape. Unlike tampons that are universally thought to be uncomfortable, or single-use pads that can cause chafing and leakage, menstrual discs come in multiple sizes, can be safely left in all day without leaking, and are made from soft, flexible medical-grade silicone that adapts to your body and does not use any suction to stay in place.