DISCLAIMER: Real Girl Puberty is not affiliated with any of the brands or products mentioned in this post. We receive zero compensation or recognition for recommending any of these products.
Have you ever wondered what a pad is made of? Sanitary napkins, generally known as “pads,” are probably the most widely used period management product around. And they’ve changed a lot since we first started getting our periods. Just the addition of wings was a game changer! I can only wish that my puberty self could’ve had wings. It would have reduced my fear of leaks.
These days, pads come in many different shapes, sizes, and absorbances, and can be generically simple, organic, or even homemade. With so many choices, it can be hard to know which pad you should buy for your puberty girl. Before we get into looking at each pad type, let’s see what they do and what they all basically have in common.
What All Pads Have in Common
All pads are used to absorb the blood and discharge that comes out of the vagina during a girl’s period. They provide physical and mental comfort by keeping periods contained and preventing blood from getting all over. Generally having the same shape and function, all pads work in the exact same way. The makeup of the pad is where things start to get different. These can be categorized into three different types: normal, organic, and sustainable.
The Normal Pad
Now, let’s start looking at each of the pad options, starting with the standard off-the-shelf ones. Walk into any Target or other drug store and you’ll find a million choices. The brands are limited to a few (Always, Stay-free, Kotex, plus a few store-brand or boutique ones), but the size, fit, and absorbency options feel almost limitless! These pads are usually more affordable, but they’re not always the healthiest choice for a girl’s body. The absorbent core is usually made using chlorine and polyacrylate gels.
Want to see what I mean by all of the options? Check out the Target pad page here: https://www.target.com/s?searchTerm=pads&Nao=0&facetedValue=sbp0z
If I had to take my pick from this selection, I’d choose the Always Radiant FlexFoam Teen Pads Regular Absorbency with Wings – Unscented. I’m a big fan of wings and the teen size is a better fit for smaller bodies. I actually prefer the teen size myself. I always go with unscented because I don’t want to risk drawing attention to the fact that I’m wearing a pad. This was especially important to me when I was a tween and teen.
The Organic Pad
Organic pads are becoming more widely available and more affordable. Going organic is a great decision for your daughter’s body and for the planet. The highlights of using organic pads are their non-toxic makeup and their biodegradability. Unlike the normal pad, organic pads use unbleached cotton and are more breathable. They’re a win-win.
From my research, the most popular organic pads are from L. and Oi. I love Oi because they have a line that is designed just for your young girl. For this reason, Oi would be my organic pad purchase. And as soon as I can get back to the US, they will be my first pad/tampon purchase. You can learn more about Oi Girl here: https://oi4me.com/collections/oi-girl
Sustainable Pads
Sustainable pads are another win-win for your daughter’s body and the environment. And if you use pads, they’re a great option for you too. I’ll admit, the thought of using washable pads feels a little gross to me, but I’ve heard nothing but great things from moms and girls who use them. This is another item I’m anxious to try once I get back home.
You can find plenty of tutorials on how to make your own sustainable pads or you can purchase them online. In the First Period issue of Real Girl Puberty magazine, we featured the brand Period Aisle and their mini pad. We love Period Aisle because they have a huge selection and they focus on educating and supporting their users. Check them out here: https://periodaisle.com/collections/pads
Find the Right Pad
There are so many different pads on the market, how can you know which one is right for you? The best way to find out is to experiment. Take time to try out different shapes, styles, and brands. Does it feel overwhelming? If you want to make it easy, you can find these products on Target.com or Amazon.com!
Our Pads are a Privilege
In first-world countries like ours, there are almost too many options when it comes to choosing a pad. In poorer and developing countries, many girls and women don’t have access to pads and must make their own, or go without and miss going to school. And honestly, there are a lot of girls and women right here at home that don’t have access to period products. Want to be an ally to Real Girls in your own community?
Here are some ideas to get you started.
- Organize a pad/tampon drive at your church or school.
- Donate pads, tampons, and other hygiene products to a local women’s shelter.
- Do an internet search to find any local organizations that can use your support.