Wondering what your menstrual (feminine hygiene) product options are? Let’s take a look at what types of products you can find in stores and online. The more you know, the more empowered you become to find what works for you.
Types of Menstrual Products in Korea
Navigating menstrual care in Korea may feel stressful if the products differ from your home country. However, the country of Korea offers a diverse range of products that cater to various needs and preferences, from traditional pads to innovative period underwear.
With increasing awareness about health and sustainability, many Korean consumers are turning to eco-friendly and organic options that prioritize comfort and environmental impact. Understanding the variety of products available empowers individuals to make informed choices that best suit their lifestyles and values. Let’s break down the different options that can be found in person and online.
Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are reusable, bell-shaped cups made from medical-grade silicone, rubber, or elastomer. They are inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual fluid and can be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on your flow. In Korea, popular menstrual cup brands include Tieutcup, Lunette, and DivaCup which can be purchased at local pharmacies or online through platforms like Coupang or Gmarket.
Pros:
- Cost-effective in the long term
- Eco-friendly
- Can be worn for longer durations than pads or tampons
Cons:
- Requires practice to insert and remove
- May not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions
Tampons
Korean tampons are similar to other countries. The classic cylindrical products are made of cotton or rayon that are inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual fluid. They come in various sizes and absorbency levels. In Korea, tampons are widely available at supermarkets, convenience stores, and online. Popular brands include Kotex, Tampax, and O.B.
Pros:
- Discreet and easy to carry
- Allows for more freedom of movement
Cons:
- Risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) if not changed frequently
- Can be uncomfortable for some users
Disposable Pads
Disposable pads are the most commonly used menstrual products in Korea. They are made of absorbent materials and have adhesive strips to secure them to underwear. Brands like Yuhan-Kimberly’s Good Feel, Whisper, and Laurier are popular choices and are easily found in stores and online.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Variety of sizes and absorbency levels
Cons:
- Not environmentally friendly
- Can cause skin irritation for some users
Organic Pads
Organic pads are similar to disposable pads but are made from organic cotton, which is free from pesticides and chemicals. These pads are ideal for those with sensitive skin. In Korea, brands such as Natracare and Organyc offer organic pad options .
Pros:
- Hypoallergenic and gentle on the skin
- Eco-friendly materials
Cons:
- More expensive than regular pads
- Limited availability in physical stores
Cotton Pads
Cotton pads are made from 100% cotton and are designed to be gentle on the skin. They are available in both disposable and reusable options. Korean brands like Gounique and Hajiwon offer cotton pads that can be found in health stores and online.
Pros:
- Soft and comfortable
- Reduced risk of irritation
Cons:
- Disposable options are less eco-friendly
- Maybe less absorbent than synthetic pads
Vegan Pads
Vegan pads are made without animal-derived materials and are often free from harsh chemicals and fragrances. Brands like Rael and Veeda provide vegan pad options in Korea .
Pros:
- Ethical and cruelty-free
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons:
- Limited brand availability
- Higher cost compared to conventional pads
Cloth Pads
Cloth pads are reusable menstrual pads made from fabric. They are washable and can last for several years with proper care. Korean brands such as Modibodi and international options like Lunapads are available online.
Pros:
- Cost-effective over time
- Environmentally friendly
Cons:
- Requires washing and maintenance
- Initial investment cost is higher
Disposable Period Underwear
Disposable period underwear combines the convenience of disposable pads with the comfort of underwear. They are designed to be worn like regular underwear and then discarded after use. Brands like Kotex and Laurier offer these products in Korea.
Pros:
- Convenient and easy to use
- Provides full coverage
Cons:
- Generates waste
- Higher cost per use
Cloth Period Underwear
Cloth period underwear is reusable and designed to absorb menstrual flow, often featuring multiple layers of fabric for absorbency. Brands like Modibodi, Thinx, and Local Korean brands offer these products.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly
- Comfortable and discreet
Cons:
- Requires regular washing
- Initial cost can be higher
Support Products
Now that you have an idea of what menstrual products you can find, let’s also look at some of the additional products that help make your menstrual cycle easier to navigate.
Feminine Wipes
Feminine wipes are used for personal hygiene during menstruation. They are pre-moistened and often contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera. Brands such as Lactacyd and Summer’s Eve are popular in Korea.
Pros:
- Convenient for on-the-go use
- Provides a fresh feeling
Cons:
- Can cause irritation if used excessively
- Generates waste
Feminine Washes
Feminine washes are gentle cleansers formulated for intimate hygiene. They help maintain the natural pH balance of the vagina. Korean brands like Vagisil and Lactacyd offer these products.
Pros:
- Helps maintain vaginal health
- Leaves a fresh feeling
Cons:
- Not necessary for everyone
- Overuse can disrupt natural flora
Pain Relief Patches
Pain relief patches are adhesive patches containing analgesics to alleviate menstrual cramps. They provide heat therapy and can be applied directly to the abdomen. Brands like Thermacare and MenstruHeat are available in Korea.
Pros:
- Non-invasive pain relief
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Temporary relief only
- May not be suitable for those with sensitive skin
Conclusion
I hope this helps provide a comprehensive overview of menstrual products available in Korea! Let me know if you need more information on any specific products or topics.
Learn About Feminine Hygiene History In Korea
We also highly recommend that you read about the history of menstrual products in Korea.
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Lanae Rivers-Woods moved to Korea in 2011 where she lives in the countryside with her family, friends, and puppies. She holds a BSSW (Bachelor’s of Science in Social Work), a MAIT (Master’s of Arts in International Teaching), and registered by the Pyeongtaek Korean Times with the Korean government as a Cultural Expert.
Ms. Rivers-Woods used her 15 years experience as a social architect, UX/UI designer, and technology consultant to found South of Seoul in 2015. South of Seoul is a volunteer organization that leverages technological tools to mitigate cultural dissonance in multi-cultural communities.
Through South of Seoul, Ms. Rivers-Woods works with independent volunteers, non-profit organizations, businesses, local & federal government, universities, and US military organizations to develop solutions to support English speaking international residents in rural South Korea.
Additionally, Ms. Rivers-Woods founded the South of Seoul smart phone app available for Google Play and iPhone. The app provides information a resources for those living and traveling in South Korea.
When she isn’t in South of Seoul development meetings or working her day job, Ms. Rivers-Woods loves to be outside at skate parks, the beach, or playing in the mountains.
