What Are Pads?
Pads, also known as sanitary pads or sanitary napkins, are rectangular pieces of absorbent material designed to be attached to the inside of a girl’s underwear to absorb menstrual blood. Some pads come with additional material on the sides, known as «wings,» which fold over the edges of the underwear to secure the pad in place and prevent leakage.
There is a wide variety of pads available, including:
- Super
- Slender
- Overnight
- Scented
- Maxi
- Mini
Since menstrual flow varies among individuals, with some experiencing heavier bleeding while others have lighter periods, pads also come in different sizes and absorbencies. It’s essential to find a pad that offers adequate coverage to prevent leaks while ensuring comfort. Experimentation may be necessary to determine the most suitable pad for different stages of your period.
Some pads are scented or contain deodorants, but it’s important to note that these additives can potentially irritate the vagina or trigger allergic reactions in some individuals.
How Do You Use Pads?
Pads should be changed every 3–4 hours to prevent bacterial buildup and odor, even if your flow is light. If you have a heavier flow, you may need to change pads more frequently to avoid leaks.
There are two types of pads available, each used slightly differently:
- Disposable pads: These pads come with a sticky strip along the bottom. To use, peel off the paper strip covering the adhesive and press the pad into the crotch of your underwear. If the pad has wings, wrap them around the bottom of the crotch for added security.
To remove the pad, unstick it from your underwear and wrap it in toilet paper before disposing of it in the trash. Avoid flushing pads down the toilet, as they can cause clogs.
- Reusable pads: These pads are washed after each use and are typically sold in natural health stores or online. They often feature snaps or clips to attach them to your underwear. Some girls prefer reusable pads for environmental reasons or to save money.
What Are Tampons?
Tampons are absorbent devices that are inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual blood. They come in various sizes and absorbencies to accommodate different flow levels.
Tampons may or may not come with deodorant, though it’s unnecessary as regular changing typically eliminates any odor. Deodorant in tampons can potentially irritate the vagina or trigger allergic reactions.
Some tampons come with applicators, which are plastic or cardboard tubes that guide the tampon into the vagina. Others are inserted using a finger. Beginners may find slender size tampons with applicators easier to use, particularly those with a rounded top.
How Do You Use Tampons?
After washing your hands, carefully follow the instructions provided with the tampons. Relaxation is essential during insertion.
Insert the tampon into the vagina using the applicator or finger. Change tampons every 4–6 hours or when saturated with blood to prevent leaks and reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare but serious condition.
Tampons have a string attached for removal. To remove, gently pull on the string until the tampon comes out. Wrap it in toilet paper and dispose of it in the trash. Avoid flushing tampons down the toilet, as they can cause plumbing issues.
Remember to change tampons regularly and never leave one in for an extended period, as this increases the risk of TSS. If you can’t find the string when it’s time to remove the tampon, don’t panic; it’s still there. Use your fingers to locate the string, which may take a moment to grasp.
What Is a Menstrual Cup?
A menstrual cup is a menstrual hygiene product that is inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood. Unlike tampons, which absorb blood, menstrual cups catch the blood before it flows out of the vagina. These cups are typically made of flexible materials such as rubber or silicone.
Menstrual cups need to be emptied several times a day, as they can’t be seen when they are full. Instructions provided with the cup detail how to do this. Some menstrual cups are reusable, while others are disposable.
It’s important to note that menstrual cups do not prevent pregnancy, despite their resemblance to diaphragms.
How Do I Decide What to Use?
The choice of period protection is entirely up to the individual. Some girls prefer tampons for their convenience and portability, making them easy to store in a purse or pocket. Tampons and menstrual cups are also favored by those who engage in sports like swimming, where pads may not be suitable.
Others may opt for pads because they are straightforward to use and provide visible indications when they need to be changed. Some girls with heavy periods may use tampons alongside pads or pantiliners for added protection against leaks.
Ultimately, many girls switch between different menstrual hygiene products based on various factors such as their activities, menstrual flow, and personal preferences.