The pros and cons of pads

Learn more about this popular period product

If your teen has started or is about to start their period, they might be using or thinking about using disposable pads – also commonly known as "sanitary towels".

As a parent, knowing a bit more about pads can help you support them, so here’s a simple guide.

What are disposable pads?

Disposable pads are made with absorbent materials like cotton, plastic, or cellulose. They stick to the inside of underwear to soak up period blood and can be worn for a few hours (approximately 4-6) before being changed and thrown away.

Pads are easy to find in pharmacies, supermarkets, and corner shops. They are also free in many schools. If your teen needs free pads, encourage them to talk to the school nurse or a teacher they trust.

Why might teens like using pads?

Pads are a popular choice for many reasons:

• They come in different sizes and shapes, so your teen can find one that fits their flow
• They’re simple to use since they don’t need to be placed inside the body
• They have a low risk of causing infections when used as directed

Why might teens avoid using pads?

Although pads work well for many, they aren’t for everyone. Here are some reasons your teen might not like them:

• They aren’t eco-friendly because the pad and its packaging often include plastic
• Pads can feel bulky or uncomfortable
• They need to be changed every few hours, which some find inconvenient
• Buying pads regularly can get expensive
• Pads can’t be used when swimming or bathing. If your teen enjoys swimming, you could explore alternatives like period swimwear, which allows them to swim during their period

What parents should know

Disposable pads are a safe and easy option that work well for many teens.

One important tip is to avoid scented pads – artificial fragrances can upset the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and cause irritation.

To help your teen feel prepared for their period, you could also put together a first-period kit with supplies like pads, spare underwear, and a small bag for disposal.

And if you’re exploring different menstrual products for your teen, you might find this guide to choosing period products for tweens and teens helpful.

By knowing the basics about pads, you can help your teen feel confident and supported as they make decisions about managing their period.

Finally, why not support your teen with luna premium?

Our app, luna, has dedicated advice on this topic as well as a period tracker which can help them feel more empowered through adolescence.

You can think of luna as a modern, digital version of the puberty books we had growing up – it’s cost-effective, verified by doctors and safeguarding experts, and has a direct line into the biggest concerns facing teens today – so it’s actually addressing what they need advice on, when they need it.

If you’ve been looking for an antidote to the misinformation and negativity shared on social media or forums, you can get luna for your teen via our luna premium page for the price of a coffee each month or manage their subscription by downloading luna yourself and signing up as a parent (it's "we are luna" in app stores).