What's in your pad or tampon?

By Nadia Kounang, CNN

Updated 1619 GMT (0019 HKT) November 13, 2015

Women who are menstruating have options. Period panties, like these created by <a href="http://www.shethinx.com/pages/faq" target="_blank">Thinx</a>, are absorbent and moisture-wicking. They're reusable and replace panty liners or tampons for some women on some days of their cycle.
Photos: What are your period options?
Women who are menstruating have options. Period panties, like these created by Thinx, are absorbent and moisture-wicking. They're reusable and replace panty liners or tampons for some women on some days of their cycle.
Hide Caption
1 of 6
Disposable pads with an adhesive back are a popular option for women who are menstruating.
Photos: What are your period options?
Disposable pads with an adhesive back are a popular option for women who are menstruating.
Hide Caption
2 of 6
Reusable cloth pads are typically held in place by a snap and can be washed between uses.
Photos: What are your period options?
Reusable cloth pads are typically held in place by a snap and can be washed between uses.
Hide Caption
3 of 6
About 70% of all American women use tampons, which are typically made of cotton, rayon and other fibers and are inserted into the vagina. Many can be worn for up to eight hours.
Photos: What are your period options?
About 70% of all American women use tampons, which are typically made of cotton, rayon and other fibers and are inserted into the vagina. Many can be worn for up to eight hours.
Hide Caption
4 of 6
Reusable menstrual cups are often made of silicone. They're inserted into the vagina and can typically be worn for up to 12 hours before being emptied, washed and reinserted.
Photos: What are your period options?
Reusable menstrual cups are often made of silicone. They're inserted into the vagina and can typically be worn for up to 12 hours before being emptied, washed and reinserted.
Hide Caption
5 of 6
Disposable cups, such as the <a href="http://softcup.com/how/faqs" target="_blank">Softcup</a>, are inserted into the vagina and can be worn for 12 hours before being removed and thrown away.