How often have you stained yourself while on your period? It’s a common problem no matter how old you are and how many pads you’ve changed in your lifetime. So why aren’t we women getting better with practice? The simple answer is that nobody ever told us how to choose our sanitary pads.
Most girls will use pads that their friends or family members use. The reasoning being that if it worked for them, then why wouldn’t it work for us? What we don’t realise is that every persons flow is different and to complicate things further, your individual flow is different every day of your period. Given this situation, it may seem daunting to choose the right sanitary pad, but we have a few tips.
- Length: Pads come in different lengths for different kinds of flow. Most often, the label of the packet describes what the pad is designed for. Read these carefully and then buy the one that you feel is best suited for your needs. Sometimes you may need different kinds of pads through your period. For example you might begin with a heavy flow but towards the end you could use panty liners.
- Shape: Experiment with different kinds of pads. Each is designed differently. See which one is the most comfortable for you. Some are wider; others come with wings (sticky strips on the side that keep the pad in place). If you are a sports person or physically very active you could try a pad with wings. Choose a shape that makes you feel the most comfortable.
- Thickness: Thicker pads are usually cheaper, but they may need to be changed more often. Having said that, if you are comfortable in them, there is no reason why you shouldn’t be using them. As long as it feels comfortable and doesn’t leak, choose the thickness that you like best.
- Odour Control: Many pads these days have this option. The pad is scented to mask the smell of your period. While this is good, remember it is an individual choice. The skin in the area is extremely sensitive and if you react badly to it, find a pad that is not scented.
- Texture & Material: You need to decide for yourself the texture and material that suits you the best. It should be smooth and soft and not feel itchy or irritable on your skin. There are different materials available such as cotton and plastic-netted. In some cases using a combination of the two i.e. – Plastic-netted for the initial days and cotton towards the end is advisable.
The right sanitary pad is an individual choice and something that can constantly change over time depending on your activity levels etc. Just remember, if you are leaking through your period it may be a good time to consider changing your sanitary pad.
At Stay Sure we offer a wide range of pads to choose from so all your needs are covered.