What is the difference between sanitary napkins and pads?
Sanitary napkins and pads are two commonly used products by women during their menstrual cycle. Both products serve the purpose of providing protection and absorbing menstrual flow. However, there are certain differences between sanitary napkins and pads that make them suitable for different preferences and needs. In this article, we will delve deeper into these differences and explore the distinct features of each product.
Sanitary Napkins
Sanitary napkins, often referred to as sanitary pads or just pads, are absorbent products that are designed to be worn externally. These pads typically consist of several layers, including a soft top layer, an absorbent core, and a waterproof backing. They come in different sizes and thicknesses to cater to varying levels of flow and personal comfort.
One of the key advantages of sanitary napkins is their simplicity of use. They are easy to apply and remove, as they have adhesive strips on the back that stick securely to the inner surface of underwear. This adhesive prevents the pad from shifting during physical activities, providing a sense of security to the wearer.
Sanitary napkins are available in various styles, such as regular, overnight, and ultra-thin. The regular pads are suitable for moderate flow, while the overnight pads are designed to handle heavy flow during the night. The ultra-thin pads, as the name suggests, are thin and discreet, offering comfort and flexibility.
Another important feature of sanitary napkins is that many brands offer scented options. Scented pads are infused with fragrances to mask menstrual odor, providing a fresh and pleasant experience. However, it''s essential to note that scented pads may not be suitable for everyone, as they can cause irritation or allergies in some individuals.
Pads
While sanitary napkins are worn externally, pads are designed to be worn internally. They are inserted into the vaginal canal to absorb menstrual flow directly at its source. Pads, also known as tampons or menstrual cups, are available in different sizes and absorbency levels to meet the diverse needs of women.
Tampons
Tampons are cylindrical-shaped products made of absorbent materials, such as cotton or rayon. They are inserted into the vagina using an applicator or by using the finger. Tampons expand to fit the vaginal canal and collect the menstrual flow before it exits the body.
One of the significant advantages of tampons is their convenience during physical activities. Unlike sanitary napkins that may shift or cause discomfort during exercise or swimming, tampons stay in place and offer freedom of movement. They are ideal for women who lead active lifestyles and want to maintain their regular activities during menstruation without any hindrance.
Tampons are available in various absorbency levels, ranging from light to super plus. It''s essential to choose the appropriate tampon absorbency based on the flow, as using a higher absorbency tampon than necessary can increase the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS). TSS is a rare but potentially life-threatening infection caused by bacteria found on tampons.
Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are another type of internal protection that has gained popularity in recent years. They are bell-shaped cups made of medical-grade silicone or latex rubber. Menstrual cups are inserted into the vagina and collect menstrual flow rather than absorbing it, similar to tampons. However, unlike tampons, which need to be changed every few hours, menstrual cups can be worn for up to 12 hours before emptying and rinsing.
One of the significant advantages of menstrual cups is their eco-friendliness. As they are reusable and have a long lifespan, they reduce waste and contribute to environmental sustainability. Additionally, menstrual cups are cost-effective in the long run, as they eliminate the need for regular purchases of disposable products.
Menstrual cups are available in various sizes to accommodate different levels of flow and cervix placements. They can take some time to get used to inserting and removing, but with practice, many women find them comfortable and reliable.
Summary
In summary, while both sanitary napkins and pads serve the purpose of providing protection during menstruation, they have distinct features that differentiate them. Sanitary napkins are worn externally, offering simplicity of use and various styles, including scented options. Pads, such as tampons and menstrual cups, are worn internally, providing convenience during physical activities and eco-friendly alternatives. The choice between sanitary napkins and pads ultimately depends on individual preferences, comfort, and lifestyle.