Sanitary pads are absorbent liners worn inside underwear to collect menstrual blood, and they sit outside the body.
If you’ve ever wondered what sanitary pads are, how they differ from tampons, or which type might fit your routine, this guide covers the basics. A sanitary pad, also called a menstrual pad or sanitary napkin, is a piece of absorbent material worn in the underwear to absorb blood during menstruation. Pads attach to the inside of underwear and are worn externally, unlike tampons and menstrual cups, which are inserted into the vagina. They’re designed to prevent leaks and protect clothing and bedding.
What Are Sanitary Pads Made Of?
Disposable pads typically have three layers: a soft top sheet that touches your skin, an absorbent core in the middle, and a leak-proof backsheet barrier. The absorbent core usually contains cotton, wood pulp, or superabsorbent polymers (SAP), which are the crystals that lock in fluid.
Reusable pads follow a similar design with a cover layer, an absorbent core, and a bottom layer. The key difference is the materials: cloth versions are washable and dryable, making them a long-term option if you have access to laundry facilities.
How Do You Use a Sanitary Pad?
The process is simple. Stick the pad to the inside of your underwear with the absorbent part centered under the vaginal opening. The adhesive strip on the back holds it in place, and wings or flaps fold over the edges of your underwear for extra security against leaks.
Choosing the right absorbency matters. Pads come in different levels for light, moderate, and heavy flow days. If you have a heavier flow, look for “overnight” or “super” absorbency options, which are longer and more absorbent. For lighter days, a thinner pad may be more comfortable.
How Often Should You Change a Pad?
Change more frequently if your flow is heavy or if you feel any dampness.
When you’re ready, wrap the used disposable pad in its wrapper or tissue before tossing it in the trash—not the toilet, as this can cause plumbing issues.
Types of Sanitary Pads
There are two main categories: disposable and reusable. Disposable pads are single-use and the most common option. Reusable pads are made from washable cloth and can be dried and reused month after month. Some pads are scented, but many health sources and procurement bodies like the UNFPA recommend unscented versions to reduce the risk of irritation. The FDA’s guidance on menstrual products covers both disposable and reusable pads as regulated devices.
Key Specs and Variations
Pads vary widely by brand and use case.
These numbers give you a sense of a standard product, but you shouldn’t generalize them across all brands. Your best bet is to read the label for absorbency and dimensions that match your needs.
| Feature | Disposable Pads | Reusable Pads |
|---|---|---|
| Usage | Single-use, tossed after each change | Washed and dried, then reused |
| Materials | Top sheet, cotton/wood pulp core, plastic backsheet | Cloth cover, absorbent core, cloth bottom layer |
| Cost over time | Recurring purchase each cycle | Higher upfront cost, lower long-term cost |
| Environmental impact | Adds to landfill waste | Lower waste footprint |
| Convenience | Easy to change anywhere | Requires access to water and laundry |
Common Myths and Mistakes
One common mistake is confusing pads with tampons or cups. Pads are external and never go inside the vagina. Another is assuming all pads are disposable—reusable ones are a real alternative. Some people also think “sanitary pad” and “menstrual pad” are different products, but they’re the same thing. Using one pad for too long is a mistake that can cause leakage and hygiene issues, so stick to the 5–6 hour guideline for daytime wear.
For a detailed look at top-rated options across absorbencies, check out our roundup of the best women’s sanitary pads to see what fits your flow and lifestyle.
Who Uses Sanitary Pads?
Pads are made for people who menstruate, but they’re also commonly used for postpartum bleeding after childbirth, during recovery from gynecologic surgery, or for any vaginal bleeding that requires absorbent protection. The FDA’s guidance on menstrual products treats pads as medical devices, covering everything from intralabial pads to reusable versions, which confirms their broad role in menstrual and post-procedural care.
One trade-off with reusable pads is that they need washing and drying between uses, so they depend on access to water and laundry facilities. If you’re considering them, make sure you have a reliable hygiene routine.
References & Sources
- Cleveland Clinic. “Sanitary Pads.” Explains what sanitary pads are, how to use them, and safety guidelines.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. “Menstrual Tampons and Pads: Information for Premarket Notification Submissions (510(k)s).” Regulatory guidance covering disposable, reusable, and intralabial pads.