Different Sanitary Pads: Have You Chosen the Right One?

Sanitary pads are essential items for women during their periods, but many have only used one or two types. In fact, the design of sanitary pads varies greatly, and choosing the wrong one can cause stuffiness, side leakage, or even allergies. Understanding their differences can help you find the most suitable one for yourself.

Daytime Use, Nighttime Use, Panty Liners: Sorted by Length and Thickness

The most basic classification of sanitary pads is by length. Daytime use pads are generally around 240mm, suitable for daytime activities as they are lightweight and close-fitting; nighttime use pads are over 350mm long and may even have a widened end to prevent leakage while sleeping.

Panty liners are like "miniature sanitary pads," about 180mm in length, used for slight bleeding before and after periods. However, do not use panty liners in place of sanitary pads! Their absorbency is low, and not changing them for a long time can breed bacteria. Different bulk sanitary pads should be used together, such as using daytime pads during the day, switching to nighttime ones at night, and using appropriate panty liners when the flow is light.

Cottony Soft, Mesh Surface, Pure Cotton: Material Determines Comfort

The material of the top layer of sanitary pads directly affects the user experience. Cottony soft pads are the most common and feel like cotton, but most contain synthetic fibers; mesh surface pads are designed to be "dry", with breathable holes on the surface for quick absorption during heavy flow, but may feel rough to those with sensitive skin.

Pure cotton sanitary pads, which have become popular in recent years, use natural cotton fibers on the surface and are suitable for sensitive skin. Each type of material has its pros and cons: mesh surface pads are less likely to stain back, and pure cotton pads are more skin-friendly; which to choose depends on personal preference.

Ultra-thin, Thickened, Organic: Special Needs Should Not Be Ignored

Some people find sanitary pads too thick and stuffy in summer, making ultra-thin pads (less than 1 cm thick) a top choice. Ultra-thin does not mean poor absorbency; quality products often use high-density core compression technology.

Thickened pads are more suitable for heavy flow days, with the absorption layer widened to over 10mm, providing a greater sense of security. Additionally, organic sanitary pads are becoming popular; their materials, from cotton to packaging, are organically certified, making them suitable for environmentally conscious users. Different sanitary pads cater to different scenarios, so it's a good idea to mix and match when stocking up.

Functional Sanitary Pads: Don't Be Fooled by "Black Technology"

Some sanitary pads on the market claim to "warm the uterus" or "kill bacteria" by adding ingredients like mugwort or traditional Chinese medicine. However, these functionalities are mostly unverified medically and could even irritate the skin. Truly practical functional designs, on the other hand, are in the details: such as three-dimensional protective edges to prevent side leakage or adhesive that doesn't lose its stickiness even after multiple applications.

Among the different sanitary pads, it is recommended to prioritize those with solid basic functionalities. For example, if you are prone to allergies during your period, avoid pads with fragrances and fluorescent agents; if you love sports, choose a style with tight-fitting edges to prevent shifting.