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How To

How to Select Sanitary Napkins

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)

Women have two primary options for personal protection during a menstrual cycle, sanitary napkins and tampons. Follow these steps to make the appropriate choice.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Decide whether to use a sanitary napkin alone or with a tampon. Some women use sanitary napkins or pads as a backup for tampons or others use pads as the sole form of protection.

  2. Step 2

    Consider different brands, sizes, styles and thicknesses. The napkin needs to cover the vulva, external female genital area, entirely to prevent leakage. Most pad designs accommodate a size 6 panty size. Consider a plus size, extra long or overnight protection for full coverage of larger panty sizes.

  3. Step 3

    Select a style or shape based on your lifestyle. Sanitary napkins come with or without wings and are curved or contoured to prevent leakage on the sides.

  4. Step 4

    Think about absorbency and select a pad that is very absorbent and keeps you dry and comfortable. If your pad embarrasses you by leaking then try a higher level of absorbency or a new brand.

  5. Step 5

    Find the proper thickness depending on your level of physical activity. Some prefer thick protection while others use thin pads to serve their needs without the bulkiness.

  6. Step 6

    Discover the best support system for preventing pad slippage. Adhesive strips on the bottom of the pad and wrap-around wings keep the napkin in place inside the panty. Notice how well a napkin's support lasts after exercise or exposing it to other consistent movement or moisture like sweat.

Tips & Warnings
  • Changes in your lifestyle or body such as having children can affect a woman's flow and necessitate a reevaluation of your sanitary napkin choice.
  • As the menstrual flow varies during your period change pad sizes or type to accommodate the flow.

Comments  

ruthy7 said

Flag This Comment

on 2/24/2009 I've used Always for many years. I've been feeling really bad but I thought that is just how you are supposed to feel during that period. Recently I discovered a new brand -Love Moon Anion that I get from Winalitepro and they make all the difference! They have much better absorbency and they are really breathable.

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