Menstrual Cup vs Tampon: Comfort, Cost, Safety & Sustainability Compared

Choosing the right menstrual care product can make a huge difference in how confident and stress-free you feel. You might have heard about the two most popular options: menstrual cups and tampons. Both are designed to be worn internally, yet they differ in their work. While tampons have been widely used for decades, menstrual cups have recently become the talk of the town as people look for more eco-friendly alternatives. With so many choices online, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when deciding which one is the best fit for your body.A menstrual cup is a soft, flexible cup usually made of medical-grade silicone that sits inside the vagina and collects menstrual fluid rather than absorbing it. Tampons, on the other hand, are made of cotton or rayon and are designed to absorb fluid until they are thrown away. At first glance, both products may seem similar because they are worn internally, but the differences go far beyond that. Understanding these differences is especially important for beginners who may be unaware of them. For example, a menstrual cup can be worn for a long time and is reusable for years. It can save a lot of money. However, it also requires a bit of practice to insert and must be cleaned properly. Whereas tampons are easy to use, they need to be changed more frequently. Your lifestyle and personal preferences play a role in choosing between the two. Some people prefer the simplicity of tampons; others love the sustainability of menstrual cups. In this article, we’ll compare menstrual cups and tampons. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of how each product works and which option might be right for your period routine.Menstrual Cup vs Tampon: Detailed Comparison TableLet’s explore the top period care product you could trust!Overview of the products: Menstrual CupSirona’s Menstrual Cups are made using medical-grade silicone. This is a biocompatible, toxin-free, odourless and hypoallergenic material which can be inserted into the vaginal canal to collect menstrual fluid. All the products are made in an FDA-approved facility and are Latex-free and BPA-free. This Menstrual Cup is gentle on the skin. It enables a rash-free, odour-free, itch-free period. The flexible rim of the menstrual cup creates a vacuum seal, preventing leakages or spills. You can use the menstrual cup for period protection even when you swim, dance, play sports or travel. A single Sirona Menstrual Cup can be used for 8 hours at a stretch and lasts up to 10 years (though it is recommended to replace your menstrual cup once every 3-5 years), making it the most pocket-friendly option for managing periods.The PEESAFE Menstrual cup is a sustainable and sensible choice as it is reusable and can be used for up to 5 years. The PEESAFE Menstrual cup is made from 100% medical-grade Silicone. It contains no chemicals and is free of BPA, Latex, and other harmful toxins. The ideal Menstrual cup size for your body fits perfectly, making it leak-free for up to 12 hours. The Menstrual cup is comfortable to wear. Once inserted properly, you won’t even feel the cup inside you. Using the cup allows you to have a rash-free and irritation-free period. The Menstrual cup is pocket-friendly and eco-friendly, making it a sustainable period care product. It is leak-free for up to 12 hours. You can use the Pee Safe Menstrual Cup Sterilisation Container to sterilise your cup. It is microwave-safe and can also be used with hot water to sterilise your cup.The flexible, soft rim enables smooth folding and insertion. Air holes create suction to help keep your cup in place and prevent leaks. It can be worn up to 12 hours. It holds 3 times as much blood as a regular pad or tampon. Our cleanser is made with natural ingredients. It is safe for sensitive skin. You can sleep, swim, exercise and travel worry-free. The Asan cup uses USP Class VI (Medical Grade) silicone certified as 100% safe for use. Scientists have formulated a specially designed cleanser for silicone menstrual cups. The sanitiser kills up to 99% of bacteria and effectively removes odours and stains. The leakproof and stain-resistant design is reusable for 10 years. For every cup purchased, the company donates a free cup to those who can't afford period products. SAFECUP is made in a US FDA-registered facility. It is available in 3 sizes (Small, Medium, and Large). The menstrual cup is made from 100% platinum-cured soft medical-grade silicone. There are no added dyes and colours. It features rounded edges, no sharp points, and a flexible rib ensuring a comfortable fit and leak-free experience. Perforated lines on the tip provide plenty of grip for easy removal. This menstrual cup offers an odourless and sensation-free period. It is an ideal menstrual aid for all kinds of activity, travelling, swimming, cycling, diving, trekking, dancing, and climbing. It has no wings or strings and leaves no residual fibres. The specially designed rim of the cup ensures it fits perfectly and does not leak. Overview of the products: TamponsThese tampons have Flexi-glide grooves for easier insertion. It is 100% Toxic-free with no added fragrances, dyes or harmful chemicals. Has a Plant-based core for rapid absorption. Its Ergonomic shape adapts to your body for leak-proof protection. It is 100% safe to use; these tampons are hypoallergenic. This has 16 tampons in all. If you need a comfortable, reliable period care product, this could be a great choice to consider.Meet Evereve’s FDA-certified tampons made from 100% organic cotton. It is free from synthetic substances, chemicals, chlorine bleach, fragrance, dyes, fertilisers and pesticides, making it safer for your sensitive body. It is biodegradable. They are dermatologically certified, too. With a super absorption capacity of 8 hours, it ensures you can swim, bathe or do whatever you want, without worrying about odour or leakage. The organic cotton prevents rashes and makes these tampons soft, comfortable and such a good fit. This is convenient and easy to use. Just carry and dispose- it will become your go-to product during periods. It contains 16 pieces in all.Pee Safe Tampons are crafted with 100% organic cotton. Unlike most brands, Pee Safe tampons are extra-soft, natural, comfortable and biodegradable when disposed of. It is designed to be easily inserted into the vagina during menstruation to absorb the flow. It is made to the perfect size, highly absorbent, and provides 100% protection from staining. You must change the tampons 3-6 times a day, depending upon your flow. You can wear it for up to 8 hours. Tampons provide comfort and convenience for women on the go. It is free from chlorine bleach, dyes, and other synthetics.These SIRONA tampons are perfect for women who experience super heavy flow. With 100% stain protection, the tampons protect for up to 4-6 hours. It is toxin-free, chlorine-free and fragrance-free. With 360-degree leak-proof protection, it is a wonderful period product. This is made of breathable, soft and comfortable material. It is hypoallergenic and free from chemicals. Sirona Applicator Tampons allow you the flexibility to indulge in sports, dance, and even swimming, while on your period. The fibre used in the tampons is super absorbent, keeping you leak-proof and odour-free all day.Other relevant articlesBest menstrual cup in IndiaNature’s Remedy: Herbal Infusions & Instant Teas for Period Pain, Bloating & PMS Relief