You do not need to know how to use every period product. It helps, however, to understand the main options so you can respond calmly when a player asks for help.
Common options
Pads stick inside underwear and absorb period blood.
Period pants are reusable underwear with absorbent layers.
Tampons are worn inside the vagina and absorb blood.
Menstrual cups sit inside the vagina and collect blood.
Product choice is personal
Do not pressure a player to use a tampon, cup or any other product because you think it is better for football.
A young player may be happiest with pads or period pants. Another may prefer a tampon. What matters is that the product is suitable for them, used according to its instructions and feels comfortable.
What clubs can do
Keep a small emergency supply of products in an easy-to-access but discreet place.
Players should know where products are kept and should not have to explain their period in front of other people to get one.
If your club provides reusable period pants, offer them as an option rather than an expectation.
Helpful LTM link
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