How to Select Sanitary Napkins
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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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1
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.
