Though there are over a million single Black fathers, studies show that most of them are apprehensive about dealing with their daughter’s periods. One thing that confounds them is choosing the right feminine hygiene product. If you’ve been wondering what to buy for your daughter, this article can help.
Your Guide to Hygiene Products
1. Sanitary Napkins (Pads)
These products are usually made from cotton and are designed to stick to the underwear. The cotton interior will absorb menstrual blood. How much it absorbs will depend on the level of absorbency so your daughter will need to try several types to see which one works best for her flow. Once the pad is full they should be discarded in a bin or special disposal unit for used pads. You should never throw them in the toilet as they can block it.
The good thing about pads is that they’re easy to use and can be found in any supermarket, pharmacy, or convenience store. The only issue that could be considered a con is that it’s disposable. Given that the average cost of a pack of sanitary napkins is $6.50, this can add up.
2. Cloth Napkins
Cloth napkins also absorb menstrual blood but they’re washable and reusable. They’re generally made of cotton or bamboo and have buttons that keep them in place. As with the disposable sanitary napkins, there are different levels of absorbency. When they’re full, your daughter would rinse them, soak them overnight, wash them, and then hang them out to dry.
The upfront cost of cloth napkins will be higher than buying a few packs of disposable sanitary napkins but it usually works out because the cloth ones can last for up to eight years. One cloth napkin can cost from $10 to $30 but it can be cheaper to buy them in a set. Though some people like the reusable nature of cloth napkins, others see it as an inconvenience.
3. Tampons
While it’s unlikely that your daughter will want to use tampons for her first period, it’s good to have the information. Tampons are made of cotton and have a string. Your daughter would place them inside her vagina and then use the string to remove them. These products have varying levels of absorbency as well and it’s important to choose the right one so there are no accidents. The cost of tampons can vary depending on the brand and type but the average cost is $8.29.
As with everything else, tampons have their pros and cons. On the one hand, they’re small and easy to carry. Your daughter will be able to swim and remain physically active while wearing one. On the other hand, it takes time to perfect putting one in so it’s not uncomfortable, and wearing one carries a small risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS).
4. Soft Tampons
The main differences between soft tampons and regular ones are that they are stringless and made from spongy material. While they are comfortable and easy to use, some people may have trouble removing them because they don’t have a string. However, they work well for those who have a heavy menstrual flow. Soft tampons can cost up to $50 per pack depending on the brand.
RELATED: Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle: Tracking & Cramps
5. Menstrual Cups
This is another reusable option for people who want to be environmentally friendly. These cups are made from rubber or silicon and they go directly into the vagina to collect menstrual blood. They also come in different sizes based on menstrual flow. When they’re full, your daughter would remove them, empty them, and wash them before future use.
Once menstrual cups are put in correctly, they should be comfortable and shouldn’t leak. Unfortunately, it can take some practice to get it right. Additionally, taking them out can be messy and it’s not always convenient to empty and wash them at the same time they’ve been removed. Depending on the brand, menstrual cups can cost from $20 to $60.
6. Menstrual Underwear
This looks and feels like regular underwear but it’s made of absorbent material that holds menstrual blood. They usually work well for people who have a light flow or as a backup for those who have a heavy flow. Of course, these can be washed and reused. Depending on the size, absorbency, or brand, menstrual underwear can cost from $10 – $40 each.
Tips for Answering Your Daughter’s Questions
As you might expect, your daughter will have a lot of questions about puberty, periods, and the products they’ll need to use. Fortunately, you don’t have to try answering them without learning from others. Multiple online sources are geared toward helping single dads learn about menstruation. Guidance counselors at a community center, church, or school can also help you. When it comes to feminine hygiene products and over-the-counter medications, your local pharmacist can guide you in the right direction. Finally, many brands have sections on their websites for answering questions about their products.
Still, when you’re talking to your daughter, it’s good to encourage some personal research. There’s a lot of information out there and you can only provide the groundwork for her. You should also remind her that everyone’s experience is different and it’s perfectly fine to not like a specific product that other people gravitate to. It’s also common to prefer one brand over the other or change products as you get more experienced.
Your daughter’s periods are inevitable so it’s important to know what to do. It’s best to talk to her before her first period so you’ll both be prepared. That means you have a lot of research to do so you can help her choose the right feminine hygiene product.
