A sanitary towel (U.K.) or sanitary napkin (U.S.) is an absorbent piece of material worn by a woman while she is menstruating, to absorb the flow of blood from the vagina. These pads are not to be confused with incontinence pads, worn by women who have bladder control problems.
General
Wingless type (left) and winged type (right) of
sanitary napkin.
A sanitary napkin, or maxi pad as it is commonly called, is worn during a woman's period to absorb her menstrual flow. Maxi pads are made out of a super-absorbent material (usually dried hydrogel) covered by quilted cotton. It is worn externally in a woman's panties unlike tampons which are worn inside the vagina. Between tampons and maxi pads, maxi pads are far more popular worldwide. In general, a pad lasts a woman on average 6 hours, although it can last between 4-8 hours depending on the pad's absorbency and the woman's flow.
Types of Maxi Pads
There are two main classifications of maxi pads: ultra-thin and maxi. Maxis are usually preferred over ultra-thins, but the newer ultra-thin products are gaining in popularity.
Both traditional maxis and ultra-thins are sold in various absorbency and lengths which may vary depending on manufacturer, but usually range from slender to regular to super to overnight. Long pads are offered for extra protection or for larger women whose panties might not be completely protected by regular length pads.
Other options are usually offered in a manufacturer's line of pads. Wings or tabs wrap around the sides of the panty to add additional leak protection and help secure the pad in place. Deodorant is also added to some pads, which is supposed to cover menstrual odor with a light perfume.
In addition to pads specifically made for use during menstruation, smaller pads called pantiliners are offered. These are thinner, smaller pads are marketed to absorb daily vaginal discharge, light menstrual flow, light urine loss, or serve as a tampon backup. Panty liners, like other pads, are often sold with features such as deodorant and in different lengths. There are even pantyliners specifically designed to fit into thong type underwear.
Alternatively, women can use washable or reusable menstrual pads, which are typically made from cotton (flannel or fleece). Washable menstrual pads do not need to be disposed of after every use and therefore offer a more environmentally friendly and economic alternative for women. Many women report that washable products are equally or more comfortable than disposable ones and are just as effective a form of protection. Washable pads are advertised in feminist publications such as Bitch magazine, as well as environmental and natural health magazines.
Instructions for Disposable Pads
The following are general instructions on how to use disposable maxi pads. Disposable maxi pads usually come individually wrapped and then packaged in bundles of 24, 36, or 48.
- Remove the pad from its wrapping.
- Remove the paper backing from the back of the pad (and wings if applicable) to expose the adhesive side.
- Pull panties down to access crotch of your panties.
- Firmly press the pad into the crotch of your panties (middle area which touches your vulva) quilted side up.
- Change pads in no more than 8 hours (4-6 hours recommended). The time to change a pad is when you feel leaks, or are uncomfortable wearing it any longer.
- Dispose of pad by folding and wrapping up in toilet paper, then discarding in a dustbin (DO NOT FLUSH!).
Uses
Maxis are usually worn to absorb menstrual discharge, protect clothing, and to help eliminate odors associated with menstrual periods. They are usually individually wrapped so they are easier and more discreet to carry in a purse or bag. This wrapper is often used to wrap used pads before disposing in appropriate receptacles.
Some women do not like the feel of maxis because they believe they feel bloated and get in the way of walking and running. Often these women will chose alternatives such as a tampon, a menstrual cup, or sea sponge. Women should not wear a pad during their period if they plan to swim. The maxis may release the flow into the water and may swell up and reach maximum absorbency very quickly. These women should plan on wearing tampons or a menstrual cup.
Brands
The three main brands of disposable maxi pads are Kotex, Stayfree, and Always. These three brands offer all kinds of maxi pads from Ultra Thins to Super Deodorant Maxis with Wings. These companies also offer their own brands of pantiliners and tampons as well. The most popular brand is Always, followed by Kotex and Stayfree. These companies have sites designed especially for preteens and teens that usually cover social issues of adolescence and offer advice, in addition to menstruation and their line of products.
There are many companies making reusable menstrual products including Lunapads, Gladrags and Goddess Moon.
Where to buy
Disposable pads are easily obtained in most supermarkets, pharmacies, and even in public bathroooms (usually for 25 or 50 cents) and plane lavatories. Reusable cloth menstrual pads can be purchased online, at co-ops, natural grocery chains or at local health food stores.
See also
Vulvovaginal health
External links
