During menstruation, we need sanitary products to soak up the blood and stay dry and comfortable throughout. In today's world, we have a variety of options available to choose from. We have been provided with different types of sanitary products like Sanitary Pads, liners and tampons.
If you are new to the journey, you might feel that all the different types are overwhelming. Even after years of use, some women around the Globe still do not completely understand the types and their uses so well.
To help every woman out there, we have jotted down all the types that are up for grabs. So the next time you go shopping, you know exactly what to pick for your comfortable period. Read through to know it all!
Here are some of the most common types of sanitary products being used all over.
Pads
Tampons
Menstrual Cups
Liners
Let's discuss the most common type first - Sanitary Pads
Also known as menstrual pads, are made up of an absorbent material and are worn by individuals who menstruate to manage their menstrual flow. The period pads are designed to be worn inside underwear and can absorb the menstrual blood, preventing it from staining clothing and providing protection and comfort during menstruation.
There are several types of ladies' pads available in the market. Here are some common types:
1. Disposable Pads
The most common ones of this type are cotton pads for periods. These types of pads are made of absorbent materials like cotton, cellulose, or superabsorbent polymers. The main idea behind it is to hold a significant amount of menstrual flow while staying dry so you can feel fresh.
The disposable napkins usually have an adhesive backing to keep them securely in place in the underwear. As the name suggests, these are meant for single use and are discarded after each use.
You can have a look at Butterfly Breathable Ultra-Thin Cottony Sanitary Pads. These are the perfect example of what a good, absorbent, leak-free and breathable pad should be.
2. Reusable Pads
These are the conventional forms of disposable pads. Often made up by stacking layers of absorbent cloth and comes in various sizes and thicknesses. Although these are not a very reliable source when it comes to absorbency or leakage, these pads however can be washed and reused, making them an environmentally friendly option.
3. Maxi Pads
If you are new to this journey, you might be facing heavy flow. For this, maxi ladies' pads prove to be a remarkable option. These are thick, highly absorbent pads suitable for heavy menstrual flow. They provide maximum coverage and more absorption capacity than regular pads, making them ideal for overnight use or during the heaviest days of menstruation.
4. Scented Pads
Some pads are scented with some mild pregnancies. This is done to help mask menstrual odours. It is also true that scented pads can irritate some individuals. That is why experts suggest you consider sensitivities before using them.
The best way is to avoid it at all rather than go for breathable pads for periods. Such types of pads allow the skin to breathe throughout so you can avoid odours.
It is also worth noting that menstrual pads come in various sizes, absorbency levels, and lengths. Every type of pad is designed with different needs and preferences in mind. It's essential to choose a pad that suits your flow and provides you with the comfort and protection you need during your menstrual cycle.
The next type to discuss is - Tampons!
The next most famous type of feminine hygiene product is a tampon. These are designed to absorb menstrual fluid during menstruation. The cylindrical-shaped tampons are typically made up of soft, compressed cotton. When inserted inside, they expand to absorb and collect menstrual blood.
This type also comes in various absorbency levels. This includes regular, super and super plus. Your choice should depend upon the amount of menstrual flow you experience every time. Once the tampon is inserted, it sits in the vaginal canal, with the string hanging outside the body for easy removal. Remember, tampons can be worn for a few hours, depending on the individual's flow. It is generally recommended to change tampons every 4-5 hours.
Time to discuss - Menstrual Cup!
Another popular alternative to pads and tampons is the menstrual cups. These are a type of feminine hygiene product used during menstruation. They are flexible, bell-shaped cups made of medical-grade silicone, latex, or rubber and are completely safe to insert inside. These cups are specifically designed to collect all the menstrual fluid rather than absorb it like the other types.
The last one - Panty Liners!
It might shock a few, but panty liners are not regular pads. These are thin, absorbent pads that are designed to be worn in underwear and are responsible to provide extra protection and absorbency for everyday vaginal discharge and light menstrual flow. They are typically smaller and thinner than regular sanitary napkins but like them, it has an adhesive-backed for secure placement.
You can check out the excellent panty liners in Pakistan by Butterfly. This has the softest cotton top sheet that makes it light and comfortable so you barely feel it there. It also has microscopic pores on the back sheet that helps your skin keep breathing, so you can stay fresh and odour free.
How Do I Decide What to Use?
We understand that these options can be overwhelming at times. That is why we have compiled a complete guide for your ease. Choosing a type of period protection is up to you based on comfort, ease and lifestyle. You can go through the sanitary pads brands in Pakistan to check out all the remarkable variety available. However, you'll find the most absorbent and breathable pads only on Butterfly. Check them out today and experience the most worry-free periods this time.