Types Of Pads: Best Different Sanitary Pads To Choose From (2025)

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Managing monthly periods has become much easier for women today with an array of products available at their disposal. Yet, when we think about sanitary pads, we can’t think beyond the ones we find in our nearby stores. Many women still don’t know what types of sanitary pads are available in the market.

Now, it is essential to understand the options we have as it not only ensures comfortable and stress-free period days but also lets us choose products tailored to our needs. So without further ado, let’s take a look at the types of sanitary pads available, how to dispose them, and how to pick the right ones.

Types Of Sanitary Pads

Choosing the right type of sanitary pads depends on the flow, comfort preference, and the activities one plans to engage in whilst they are on their period. From ultra-thin pads to maxi pads to disposable ones, here are the types of sanitary pads you should know about.

1. Regular Sanitary Pads

Regular pads are designed for moderate flow days, i.e. neither too light nor too heavy. They provide a perfect balance between absorbency and thickness, making them suitable for everyday use during your periods. They are commonly available in various brands and can come with wings to secure the pad in place or without wings for those who prefer a simple design.

2. Overnight Sanitary Pads

SironaSirona 100% Rash-Free Overnight Sanitary Pads for Women₹289

These Overnight pads are specifically designed for nighttime use. They are typically longer and more absorbent than the regular pads, providing extra coverage and protection to prevent leakage while you are sleeping. If you are someone who tends to have heavier flow during the night or needs extra protection, you can always go for overnight pads. They can provide more comfort and a worry-free sleep.

3. Ultra-Thin Sanitary Pads

Ultra thin sanitary pads are designed to be thin and discreet all while offering effective absorbency. They are designed for women who are looking for a sleeker and comfortable alternative to thicker options. However, despite the slim design, they provide effective absorbency and reliable protection for light to moderate flow days.

4. Maxi Pads

Maxi pads are thicker and have higher absorbency than regular and ultra-thin pads, providing extra coverage. They are designed for women who experience heavy menstrual flow and are also generally useful at the start of the periods when typically the flow is heavier than the other days. But like other pads, maxi pads may come with or without wings, which are flaps that help in securing the pad in place.

5. Panty Liners

Sirona Recommends Best Panty Liners

Sirona Dry Comfort Panty Liners

SironaSirona Dry Comfort Daily Use Panty Liners₹125

These panty liners can be used to prevent daily leakage from urinary incontinence, absorbing excessivevaginal dischargeand discharge after intercourse. They are also natural absorbent, biodegradable, and have ultra-thin texture.

Sirona Ultra-Thin Small Panty Liners

SironaSirona Ultra-Thin Small Panty Liners₹199

Expecting your periods but don’t want to wear a thick pad? Then you can always for Sirona Ultra-Thin Small Panty Liners. They are designed to help you protect your clothes from spotting at the start of your period. They can also be used as an extra layer of protection if you are usingtamponsormenstrual cupsfor the first time

6. Reusable Sanitary Pads

SironaSirona Reusable Sanitary Pads₹349

A more eco-friendly alternative to disposable pads, reusable sanitary pads are typically made from washable and absorbent fabric. This means that these types of pads can be used multiple times. Most reusable pads are made from cotton, bamboo, or hemp. But just like any other pads, they also come in various sizes and have different absorbency levels. Reusable sanitary pads are a sustainable choice for those looking to minimise environmental waste. All you have to do is wash the pads and reuse them.

7. Biodegradable Sanitary Pads

SironaSirona Biodegradable Black Sanitary Pads₹173

Biodegradable sanitary pads are an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastic pads. They are designed using materials that can naturally and easily break down over time. They are made from natural fibres and are mostly chemical, paraben, and artificial colour-free.

8. Rash Free Sanitary Pads

SironaRash-Free Sanitary Pads for Women (XL+) – 30 Pads₹419

Rash-free sanitary pads are typically designed to minimise the risk of skin infection and rashes. These pads are often made from more breathable and comfortable material that is super gentle on the skin. These rash-free pads have a cottony top base and are highly absorbent.

9. Maternity Pads

SironaSirona Natural Ultra Soft Maternity Pads – 8 Pieces₹225

Most new mothers, after childbirth, experience post-partum bleeding. Hence, they have to wear maternity pads that are typically designed to manage this kind of bleeding. These maternity pads are longer, thicker, and more absorbent than regular sanitary pads. They are also designed in a way that they are ultra-soft and super comfortable for the mother along with being 100% rash-free.

How To Use Sanitary Pads

For discretion and for ease of carry, most sanitary pads are wrapped individually. But if you are someone who is using the sanitary pad for the first time, using it might seem like a daunting task. Worry not! Follow these steps to use a sanitary pad.

1. Wash Your Hands

To maintain a hygiene level, it is advisable to wash your hands before and after handling a pad. So make sure to wash your hands.

2. Unwrap The Package

First, take out the pad from the packet and open the package in which it has been wrapped, if any. Then peel off the centre backing and stick the pad from the adhesive side onto your underwear. Then, peel off the paper from the wings and wrap the wings around the edges of your underwear to make sure your pad is placed securely.

3. Change Regularly

Make sure that you change your pad frequently, at least every 5-6 hours, depending on your flow.

How To Dispose Sanitary Pads At Home

Just like using the pad, disposing of sanitary pads is not that difficult. However, there are certain things that you need to keep in mind while doing so.

1. Warp the pad

When you are about to change, untick the pad from your underwear and wrap it either in tissue paper, newspaper, or the wrapper of your next pad. Some pads even come with sanitary disposable bags.

2. Use a dedicated bin

After wrapping, throw it in a bin or a designated sanitary disposable bin. If you dont have one then use can use the regular dustbin to throw it in. But make sure the bin is secured with a lid to maintain hygiene and contain the odour.

3. Do not flush

Never flush your sanitary pads down the toilet as it can clog it and cause some serious plumbing issues. Always make sure that you dispose of your pads while throwing them in a bin, whether you are at home or any other place.

How To Choose Sanitary Pads

Picking the right sanitary pads can get confusing. Here, we have made it easier for you! Choosing the right pad involves considering various factors such as your flow, comfort, preference, and lifestyle.

Select a sanitary pad based on your flow. Go for regular pads for moderate flow, maxi for heavy flow, and ultra-thin for light flow.
You can pick pads based on their lengths, especially for overnight use.
You can pick between wings or no wings. Typically, wings help in keeping the pads in place and prevent leakage
Some pads are made with breathable materials, while others may have a softer top layer. Choose what makes you feel comfortable.
You can choose between disposable or reusable pads. Reusable pads are generally made from washable material and can be used again, whereas, disposable ones can only be used once.

Featured Image: Pexels

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which type of pad is best for periods?

There are various kinds of pads available in the market. You can go for regular, ultra-thin, maxi, reusable, or biodegradable pads, depending on your preference and choice.

Which pad is best for beginners?

There are various types of pads available for beginners. Depending on your flow and preference, you can choose between regular, ultra-thin, maxi, or even a reusable pad.

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