La Cesta de Luna

Cloth pads

How to use them: they fasten with a popper around your knickers, just like an ordinary pad. Change it every 4 to 6 hours, depending on your flow.

The good: very comfortable and soft on the skin, no plastic. Easy to start with.

Keep in mind: they need washing. When you're out, keep used ones in the waterproof pouch that comes with them.

How to care for them: rinse them in cold water (hot water sets the blood), soak them for a while and wash them by hand or in the machine, without softener. Dry them in the air, ideally in the sun. The soaking water makes a good fertiliser for your plants.

Period pants

How to use them: put them on like any other knickers. Depending on your flow, they can last you the whole day or the night.

The good: they feel like your everyday underwear. Ideal for the night or for light days.

Keep in mind: you need several to rotate and they take longer to dry.

How to care for them: rinse them in cold water until it runs clear, wash them without softener and dry them in the air, never in the tumble dryer.

Menstrual cup

How to use it: fold it, insert it into your vagina and let it open. You can wear it for up to 8 to 10 hours. To take it out, press the base to release the seal.

The good: it lasts for years, you barely notice it and it lets you see your blood and get to know yourself.

Keep in mind: it takes a few cycles of practice. Size S usually suits you better if you haven't had a vaginal birth, and L if you have.

How to care for it: wash it with water and mild soap at every change and boil it for a few minutes at the start and end of your period. Keep it in its cotton pouch, never in a closed container.

Hot water bottle

How to use it: fill it two thirds with hot but not boiling water, squeeze out the air and close it tightly. Rest it on your belly or lower back.

The good: it eases period pain simply and invites you to stop.

Keep in mind: always use the cover and don't fall asleep with it on you.

How to care for it: empty it after use and leave it to dry upside down. Hand wash the cover in lukewarm water.

Lavender heat bag

How to use it: warm it for 1 to 2 minutes in the microwave with a glass of water beside it and place it wherever you need it. You can also chill it in the fridge for your head or eyes.

The good: it moulds to your body, holds the heat for a good while and smells of lavender.

Keep in mind: don't overheat it, and check the temperature before you put it on.

How to care for it: it doesn't get wet. Keep it somewhere dry and, if it loses its scent, add a few drops of lavender oil.

Belly oil

How to use it: warm a few drops in your hands and massage slowly, in clockwise circles, around your navel.

The good: it relaxes, warms and gives you a moment of care for yourself.

Keep in mind: for external use only. Try it on a small area first if your skin is sensitive.

How to keep it: away from sun and heat. It keeps well for about 12 months.

Cycle infusions

How to use them: one teaspoon per cup of freshly boiled water. Cover and leave to steep for 5 to 10 minutes.

The good: four blends to keep you company in each phase: menstrual, pre-ovulatory, ovulatory and premenstrual.

Keep in mind: if you're pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication, check with your doctor first.

How to keep them: in a closed jar, somewhere dry and dark.

Natural soap

How to use it: rub the bar straight onto the stain with cold water, leave it for a few minutes and rinse.

The good: it removes blood very well and is gentle on fabrics and skin.

Keep in mind: hot water sets blood, so always use cold.

How to care for it: let it dry on a soap dish with holes so it lasts longer.

Cycle journal

How to use it: each day, note which day of your cycle you're on, how you feel, your energy and your dreams. After a few months of notes you start to see your cycle at a glance.

The good: it helps you get to know yourself and understand your changes.

Keep in mind: you don't need to write much. A word or a colour a day already says a lot.

First period kit

What's inside: a cloth pad, a pouch, the menstrual infusion and a small journal.

What it's for: a gift for a girl or teenager, so she can welcome her first period naturally and with care.

A tip: give it with a calm conversation. On the First period page you'll find ideas for how to talk about it.