Periods have become a part of women’s life after a certain period of time. Even though it’s common and natural, there are times where this becomes a kind of stress. The one major factor would be the menstrual products. Choosing the right menstrual product might be exhausting considering pad types, size, material, etc. It is vital to choose one that suits your body and flow .

Never worry, you are at the right place. Here, in this blog you will know the different types and pad, and which one is the right option for you considering your cycle.

1. Regular Pads

• Regular pads are designed in a way which suits light to moderate flow. The pad is slightly thin and has better absorption capacity to keep the surface area dry.

• These regular pads can be used in the day time when your flow is light or medium.

• Flexible, available with and without wings.

• Perfect for people who travel 9 to 5 like schools, offices, or colleges.

When your period flow is light to medium, incorporating regular pads is the best choice.

If your period starts light and increases over the day, regular pads are a great choice for the early part of your cycle.

2. Overnight Pads

• For avoiding strains and disturbed or stress-free sleep, these overnight pads are a better choice. Suitable for people who have heavy period flow. Since these pads have extended coverage on the back, they help in preventing leaks and spots during sleep.

• Suitable for long hours for people with heavy flow without changing. Perfect for long travels and overnight.

• Has high-absorbency capacity. 

• Will hold in one place without moving.

For a strain-free bed at night, preferring overnight pads will give you peace throughout the night or while you are travelling.

3. Ultra-Thin Pads

• They are way more light, breathable in nature, and without any compromise in absorption capacity.

• Perfect for people who prefer light-weight pads.

• Suitable for light to medium flow.

• Has gel-based top layers for faster absorption

• Breathable layers which helps in preventing irritation.

These pads are common among teens and working women who prefer comfort and convenience. 

4. Organic or Cotton Pads

• These pads are made of natural cotton fibres, which is free from any harsh chemicals and dyes.

• Gentle on the skin.

• Do not cause rashes or irritation in the skin.

• Perfect choice for people with sensitive skin

• Soft, breathable, and does its work best in even hot and humid climatic conditions,

• Environmentally-friendly

As these pads are safer choices for us and the environment, they are now widely used by everyone without any sense of redness and irritation.

5. Maxi Pads

• These pads are thicker and designed for people with heavy flow 

• Slightly bulkier than normal pads, but provides maximum absorption.

• Suitable for post-partum bleeding, long travel or busy schedules

• Has wings so that you can secure them in one place.

Even though they may be heavier, people with heavy flow can blindly go with maxi pads without worrying about leaks or spots in the dress.

6. Panty Liners

• Panty liners are ultra light pads, which can be used for spotting and vaginal discharge.

• Perfect for absorbing sweat and maintaining freshness on non-period days.

• Suitable for light flow days or spotting days.

• Perfect for pre-period days and post-period days.

• Very thin and flexible.

Panty liners are a great source for hygienic routine. If you have smelly underwear or white discharges, these are better choices to choose with!

7. Reusable Cloth Pads

• Cloth pads are the best option if you are okay with washing them.

• Reusable, skin-friendly, and environmentally-friendly.

• Cost-effective too.

• Suitable for regular to heavy flow, depending on thickness.

• Zero plastic waste

Cloth pads need extra care in terms of hygiene. Wash them with hot water and make sure to sun dry.

 8. Biodegradable Pads

• Biodegradable pads are much like regular pads, but are made using plant-based materials.

• Best since they get decomposed naturally.

• Environmentally-friendly in nature.

• Perfect for people looking for convenience and sustainability

• Suitable for medium to heavy flow

• Gentle on sensitive skin

A perfect choice for people looking for comfort and conscience. Even though they use and throw pads, they are safe and kind to our mother nature.

9. Maternity Pads

• Maternity or postpartum pads are generally heavy flow pads which is designed for new mons.

• Larger in size and has better absorbing capacity.

• Suitable for after delivery for postpartum flow (lochia)

• Extra-long, thick, and cushiony

• Even available in the form of panties. Fits perfectly

• Skin-friendly to prevent irritation.

They provide maximum comfort and protection during a sensitive recovery phase.

10. Specialty Pads

• Some pads are designed with added features for specific needs which suit and fits according to body contours.

• Prefers extra odor control or freshness

• Suitable For sensitive skin that needs gentle care

• Perfect for travel or long working hours

• Has natural infusions like aloe vera or mint

These innovative pads combine comfort with wellness benefits, giving you more personalized period care options.

How to Choose the Right Pad for You

As every woman's flow varies, the comfort also varies from person to person. Here is a simple column to choose the best pad based on your period flow.

Tip: It’s always safe to keep 2 to 3 pads hands, based on your period cycle and flow.

Tips and Tricks - Periods Cycle

While choosing the right pad matters, personal hygiene is equally important:

• Ensure to swap your pads every 4hours.

• WAsh your hands before and after touching your pads.

• Wrap used pad and dispose of them in closed bins.

• Always look for loose clothes and fabrics which are skin-friendly.

Conclusion

As there are types of period pads, you have huge options which you can choose based on comfort and confidence. No matter what type of pads, it is vital to dispose of them properly, considering our personal hygiene and environmental hygiene.

Even though a period is a personal one, always make sure to listen to your body and work on them accordingly. Opting for comfortable pads and skin-friendly pads should be top-most priority.

FAQs

1. How often should I change my pad?
Every 4–6 hours, or sooner if the pad feels damp or full. Overnight pads can be worn a little longer if flow is moderate.

2. Can I use the same pad for the whole day?
No, it’s important to change regularly to prevent rashes and odor.

3. Are organic or cotton pads better for sensitive skin?
Yes, they’re gentler and reduce irritation compared to synthetic pads.

4. How long do reusable pads last?
With good care, they can last for 2–3 years. Wash immediately after use and dry completely before reuse.

5. Which pad type is best for heavy flow?
Maxi pads or overnight pads provide the best coverage and absorbency for heavy flow days.