What is a sanitary napkin? — A Step-by-Step 2025 Buyer’s Guide for Every Flow

Abstract

A sanitary napkin is an absorbent hygiene product worn externally by individuals to absorb menstrual fluid during menstruation. Its fundamental design consists of three primary layers: a permeable topsheet for user comfort and fluid passage, an absorbent core designed for fluid acquisition and retention, and a fluid-impermeable backsheet to prevent leakage. The core often contains superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) to enhance its capacity. The evolution of these products reflects significant shifts in material science, manufacturing, and societal attitudes toward menstruation. Modern product variations, including panty liners, ultra-thin, regular, heavy flow, and overnight pads, cater to diverse physiological needs and lifestyle activities. The selection of an appropriate sanitary napkin is a personal decision guided by factors such as menstrual flow volume, physical activity, and individual sensitivities. Understanding the composition, types, and proper usage of these products is foundational to achieving comfort, hygiene, and confidence during the menstrual cycle.

Key Takeaways

• A sanitary napkin is a layered absorbent item used to manage menstrual flow.
• Choose a pad type—from panty liner to overnight—based on your flow and daily activities.
• Understanding absorbency ratings on packaging is key to preventing leaks.
• Change your sanitary napkin every 4-6 hours to maintain hygiene and comfort.
• Properly wrap and dispose of used pads in a waste bin; never flush them.
• Consider material options like organic cotton if you have sensitive skin.
• Knowing what is a sanitary napkin empowers you to make informed personal care choices.

Table of Contents

• The Fundamental Question: What is a Sanitary Napkin?
• A Journey Through Time: The Evolution of Menstrual Pads
• The Anatomy of a Sanitary Napkin: A Material Science Perspective
• Navigating the Choices: A Guide to the 5 Main Types of Sanitary Napkins
• Making an Informed Decision: How to Choose the Right Sanitary Napkin for You
• A Practical Guide: How to Use a Sanitary Napkin Correctly and Hygienically
• Broader Implications: The Social and Environmental Context
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Conclusión
• References

The Fundamental Question: What is a Sanitary Napkin?

To begin our exploration, we must start with a clear and foundational understanding. The question, "What is a sanitary napkin?" seems simple, yet the answer opens up a complex world of material science, personal health, and social history. At its core, a sanitary napkin, often called a menstrual pad, is an item of personal care designed to absorb and contain menstrual fluid. It is worn externally, adhering to the inside of one's underwear, providing a barrier between the body and clothing. This function, while straightforward, is accomplished through a sophisticated, multi-layered structure that has been refined over decades of innovation.

A Foundational Definition for Menstrual Health

The primary role of a sanitary napkin is to manage the physiological process of menstruation, which involves the monthly shedding of the uterine lining (Schutte-Smith, 2025). This fluid, composed of blood, tissue, and mucus, requires a reliable and hygienic method of absorption. Unlike internal products such as tampons or menstrual cups, pads work entirely outside the body. This external nature makes them a preferred choice for many, particularly those beginning menstruation, as they do not require insertion and are often perceived as simpler to use (Nabta Health, 2024). They provide a tangible sense of security, allowing individuals to go about their daily lives—attending school, working, or engaging in recreational activities—with dignity and without the constant worry of leakage. The very existence of this product is a testament to a growing acknowledgement of menstrual health as an integral part of overall well-being.

Deconstructing the Modern Sanitary Napkin: Core Components

If we were to dissect a modern sanitary napkin, we would find a marvel of engineering in miniature. It is not merely a piece of cotton; it is a system. The typical disposable pad is composed of three key parts working in harmony.

1. The Topsheet: This is the layer that rests against your skin. Its purpose is twofold: to be soft and comfortable, and to quickly draw fluid away from the body and into the core. It is designed to be permeable, acting like a one-way gate for moisture.
2. The Absorbent Core: This is the heart of the pad. Its job is to capture the fluid and lock it away. Early pads used simple materials like wood pulp or cotton. Today’s advanced cores often contain a substance called Super Absorbent Polymer (SAP). SAPs are incredible materials that can absorb and hold many times their weight in liquid, transforming it into a gel to prevent it from resurfacing (Visser, 2024). This technology is what allows modern pads to be so thin yet so effective.
3. The Backsheet: This is the final layer that faces the underwear. It is made of a thin, waterproof material, typically a plastic film, to prevent any fluid from leaking through onto clothing. An adhesive strip (or strips) on the backsheet ensures the pad stays securely in place.

Many pads also feature "wings," which are extra flaps on the sides that fold over the edges of the underwear. These wings provide additional protection against side leaks and help to keep the pad from shifting during movement.

The Purpose Beyond Menstruation: Postpartum and Beyond

While intrinsically linked with menstruation, the utility of sanitary napkins extends to other situations involving vaginal bleeding. After childbirth, it is common to experience a period of bleeding called lochia, which can last for several weeks. During this postpartum period, doctors advise against using internal products like tampons due to the risk of infection. Consequently, maternity pads—a thicker, more absorbent version of a standard sanitary napkin—become the essential tool for managing this flow (Nabta Health, 2024). Similarly, individuals may use pads to manage light bladder leakage or spotting between periods. This versatility underscores the product's role as a fundamental tool for managing various aspects of reproductive and pelvic health.

A Journey Through Time: The Evolution of Menstrual Pads

To truly appreciate the modern sanitary napkin, it helps to understand where it came from. The story of menstrual products is not just a history of invention; it is a history of social change, of breaking taboos, and of a persistent human drive for comfort and dignity.

From Ancient Practices to Homemade Solutions

For much of human history, managing menstruation was a private, often makeshift affair. Depending on the culture and era, people used what was available. This could include folded cloths, rags, plant fibers like moss or grass, animal pelts, or even sand. These solutions were often uncomfortable, unreliable, and required constant washing and reuse. The silence surrounding menstruation meant that innovations were slow to emerge, and knowledge was passed down quietly from one generation to the next. For centuries, the experience was largely defined by resourcefulness in the face of biological reality, with little in the way of specialized products (Schutte-Smith, 2025).

The 20th Century Revolution: The Birth of the Disposable Pad

The turning point came in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A key development, surprisingly, arose from wartime ingenuity. Nurses in France, looking for better ways to bandage wounded soldiers, realized that the highly absorbent wood pulp bandages they were using could be adapted for their own menstrual needs. The material, known as Cellucotton, was far more absorbent than traditional cotton and, crucially, was inexpensive enough to be disposable.

This idea was commercialized in the 1920s, leading to the first mass-marketed disposable sanitary napkins. However, societal taboos remained a significant barrier. Purchasing the product was an embarrassing affair, often involving leaving money on the counter and taking a box without speaking to the clerk. Early advertisements were incredibly discreet, never mentioning menstruation directly and instead using vague euphemisms about "personal hygiene" and "modern convenience." Despite these hurdles, the product's superiority over reusable rags was undeniable, and manufactured pads gradually replaced homemade solutions in many parts of the world (PMC, 2024).

Modern Innovations and the Quest for Comfort

The latter half of the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st have been marked by rapid innovation. The bulky, belt-held pads of the mid-century gave way to the adhesive strips we know today, a simple change that dramatically improved convenience and discretion. The 1980s and 90s saw a focus on thinness and performance. The introduction of Super Absorbent Polymers (SAPs) was a game-changer, allowing pads to become incredibly thin while offering unprecedented levels of protection. Manufacturers began to focus on the user's experience, introducing softer topsheets, contoured shapes for a better fit, and specialized products for different levels of flow and times of day, like overnight pads. This ongoing quest for improvement continues, driven by consumer demand for products that are not just functional but also comfortable, reliable, and tailored to individual needs.

The Anatomy of a Sanitary Napkin: A Material Science Perspective

Let's put on our lab coats for a moment and examine the sanitary napkin not as a consumer product, but as a piece of applied science. The effectiveness of a pad hinges on the specific materials used in each of its layers and how they interact with each other and with fluid.

The Topsheet: The First Point of Contact

The topsheet is the interface between the body and the pad. Its material must be carefully chosen to balance several competing demands. It needs to feel soft and dry against the skin to prevent irritation and maintain comfort. At the same time, it must be highly porous, allowing menstrual fluid to pass through it quickly and into the absorbent core below. If fluid sits on the surface, it can lead to a feeling of wetness and increase the risk of leaks.

Most modern topsheets are made from non-woven fabrics, which are engineered materials that look and feel like cloth but are made from plastic polymers like polypropylene or polyethylene. These materials are naturally hydrophobic, meaning they repel water. This might seem counterintuitive, but it's actually a key feature. The material is treated and perforated in a way that creates tiny funnels. These funnels allow liquid to pass through in one direction (down into the core) but make it difficult for the liquid to come back up. This "one-way" action is what helps the surface of the pad feel dry even after it has absorbed fluid.

The Absorbent Core: The Heart of Protection

The core is where the real magic happens. Its job is to acquire the fluid from the topsheet, distribute it evenly to maximize its storage capacity, and then lock it away securely. For many years, the core was simply a thick layer of fluffed wood pulp. While absorbent, wood pulp can become saturated quickly and is prone to "wetback," where fluid resurfaces under pressure (for example, when you sit down).

The development of Super Absorbent Polymers (SAPs) revolutionized core design. SAPs are long-chain molecules (polymers) that are cross-linked to form a three-dimensional network. When this network comes into contact with an aqueous fluid like menstrual fluid, it rapidly draws the liquid in through osmosis. The liquid becomes trapped within the polymer structure, which swells to form a stable gel. A small amount of SAP can absorb hundreds of times its own weight in fluid.

Today's cores typically use a blend of materials. A matrix of cellulose fluff pulp provides the structure and helps to quickly wick fluid away from the topsheet, while the SAP particles embedded within this matrix do the heavy lifting of absorption and retention (Sadaf et al., 2025). This composite structure allows pads to be remarkably thin and light while offering a high level of security.

The Backsheet: The Final Barrier Against Leaks

The backsheet serves a single, vital purpose: to be an impenetrable barrier to liquid. It prevents absorbed fluid from leaking through the pad and onto your underwear and clothing. The most common material for backsheets is a thin film of polyethylene, the same type of plastic used in grocery bags and plastic wrap.

However, a simple plastic film can feel sweaty and uncomfortable because it traps not only liquid but also air and water vapor. To address this, many manufacturers now use "breathable" backsheets. These are not porous in the traditional sense; they will not let liquid through. Instead, they are made from a microporous film. The pores are so tiny that liquid molecules are too large to pass through, but water vapor molecules (from sweat) are small enough to escape. This allows air to circulate, reducing heat and humidity, which contributes to a more comfortable wearing experience. The exterior of the backsheet is coated with a pressure-sensitive, non-toxic adhesive that keeps the pad firmly attached to the underwear.

Navigating the Choices: A Guide to the 5 Main Types of Sanitary Napkins

Walking down the personal care aisle can be overwhelming. The shelves are lined with boxes of pads in different lengths, thicknesses, and shapes. How do you know which one is right for you? The key is to understand that this variety exists for a reason: every person's body and every period is different. Let's break down the main categories to demystify the options.

Pad Type	Typical Use Case	Nivel de absorción	Características principales
Panty Liner	Very light flow, spotting, backup for internal products, daily discharge	Lightest	Very thin, flexible, discreet
Ultra-Thin Pad	Light to moderate flow days	Light to Regular	Thin and discreet, but with an absorbent core
Regular/Maxi Pad	Moderate to heavy flow days	Regular to Heavy	Thicker for more cushioning and absorption
Overnight Pad	Sleeping, heavy flow days, postpartum	Heaviest	Longer, wider back, high-capacity core
Maternity Pad	Postpartum bleeding (lochia)	Maximum	Very long, thick, and highly absorbent

Panty Liners: For the Lightest Days and Daily Freshness

Think of a panty liner as the lightest-duty member of the sanitary napkin family. These are extremely thin, small pads designed not for a full menstrual flow, but for the very beginning or end of your period when you might have light spotting. They are also useful for managing everyday vaginal discharge, providing a feeling of freshness and protecting underwear. Some people use them as a "just-in-case" backup when using a tampon or menstrual cup, offering peace of mind against unexpected leaks. Their defining characteristic is discretion; they are so thin and flexible that you will likely forget you are wearing one.

Ultra-Thin and Regular Pads: The Everyday Workhorses

These are the go-to options for the main days of a typical menstrual period.

• Ultra-Thin Pads: These are a marvel of modern design. Thanks to the use of highly efficient SAP cores, they can be just a few millimeters thick yet still offer excellent protection for light to moderate flow. They are a popular choice for daytime use because they are discreet under clothing and comfortable during physical activity.
• Regular/Maxi Pads: These pads are thicker than ultra-thins, often using more fluff pulp in addition to SAPs. This provides a more cushioned feel, which some people prefer. They are suitable for moderate to heavier flow days, offering a balance of comfort and reliable absorption. The term "Maxi" typically implies a thicker, more traditional style of pad compared to the compressed "Ultra-Thin" style.

Super/Heavy Flow Pads: For Maximum Security

For the heaviest one or two days of your period, you need a pad that is up to the task. Super or Heavy Flow pads are designed for maximum absorption. They are often longer and sometimes wider than regular pads, providing more coverage to protect against leaks, especially when you are moving around. Their absorbent cores are packed with a higher concentration of SAPs to handle a larger volume of fluid quickly and efficiently. Choosing a heavy flow pad for your heaviest days is a proactive step to ensure you feel secure and can go about your day without interruption.

Overnight Pads: Engineered for All-Night Protection

The night presents a unique challenge. When you are lying down for many hours, gravity can cause fluid to flow towards the back. Overnight pads are specifically engineered to address this. Their most noticeable feature is their length; they are significantly longer than daytime pads to provide coverage from front to back. They also often have a wider, flared shape at the back to catch any fluid that might travel while you sleep. Combined with their maximum absorbency core, these features provide 8-10 hours of protection, allowing you to sleep soundly without worrying about waking up to stained sheets.

Specialty Pads: Maternity and Organic Options

Beyond the standard categories, you will find pads designed for specific needs.

• Maternity Pads: As mentioned earlier, these are for managing postpartum bleeding. They are the longest and most absorbent pads available, designed to handle the heavy and prolonged flow that can occur after giving birth.
• Organic/Natural Pads: For individuals with very sensitive skin or those concerned about the materials in conventional products, there are pads made with alternative materials. These might feature a 100% organic cotton topsheet, a core free from chlorine bleaching, and materials derived from renewable resources. Exploring these compresas desechables can be a good choice for those prioritizing natural materials.

Making an Informed Decision: How to Choose the Right Sanitary Napkin for You

Choosing a sanitary napkin is a deeply personal process. There is no single "best" pad—only the best pad for you, at a particular moment in your cycle. The goal is to find a product that makes you feel comfortable, secure, and confident. This requires a little bit of self-knowledge and an understanding of what the product labels are telling you.

Understanding Your Flow: The First Step to Comfort

Your menstrual flow is not constant. It typically starts light, becomes heavier for a couple of days, and then tapers off again. This fluctuation is completely normal. The key to staying comfortable is to match your pad to your flow. Using a high-absorbency pad on a light day is unnecessary and might feel bulky. Conversely, using a light-absorbency pad on a heavy day is a recipe for leaks and anxiety.

Consider keeping a small journal for a cycle or two. Make a simple note each day: was your flow light, moderate, or heavy? This simple act of observation will give you a powerful tool: a "map" of your own cycle. With this map, you can anticipate your needs. You'll know to have super pads ready for day two, and that by day four, you can probably switch to a lighter, ultra-thin pad.

Decoding the Packaging: Absorbency Ratings Explained

Pad packaging can look like a secret code, with symbols, drops, and various descriptive words. These are all part of the absorbency rating system, which is designed to help you quickly compare products. While there isn't a universally mandated standard, most brands use a similar visual language.

Absorbency Symbol/Term	Typical Meaning	Best For
1-2 Drops / "Light"	Lightest absorbency	Spotting, first/last days of period
3-4 Drops / "Regular"	Moderate absorbency	Most days of a typical period
5-6 Drops / "Super" / "Heavy"	Alta absorbencia	Heaviest days of the period
7+ Drops / "Overnight" / "Maximum"	Highest absorbency	Sleeping, very heavy flow, postpartum

Think of the "drop" symbols as a simple scale. More filled-in drops mean more absorbency. Learning to read these symbols allows you to grab the right box with confidence, knowing it matches the needs you identified from tracking your flow. Don't be afraid to have a few different types of pads on hand. A "period toolkit" with liners, regular pads, and overnight pads ensures you are prepared for whatever your cycle brings.

Considering Your Lifestyle and Activities

Your choice of pad might also change based on what you are doing. If you are planning to go for a run or play a sport, you might prefer an ultra-thin pad with strong wings that will stay securely in place and move with your body. If you have a long day of classes or meetings where you might not have a chance to change your pad as often as you'd like, you might opt for a higher-absorbency pad for extra peace of mind. For a quiet day at home, a softer, cushioned maxi pad might feel more comfortable. The right pad is one that fits not just your body, but your life.

Skin Sensitivity and Material Choices

The skin in the genital area is delicate. For some, the synthetic materials, fragrances, or dyes used in standard pads can cause irritation, chafing, or allergic reactions. If you experience discomfort, it is worth exploring pads designed for sensitive skin. Look for products that are labeled "hypoallergenic" or "dermatologist-tested." As mentioned before, pads with 100% cotton topsheets are a great option, as cotton is a natural, breathable fiber that is gentle on the skin. Fragrance-free pads are also a wise choice, as added perfumes are a common source of irritation and are not necessary for hygiene. Your comfort is paramount, and there are many options available that prioritize skin health.

A Practical Guide: How to Use a Sanitary Napkin Correctly and Hygienically

Using a sanitary napkin is a simple skill, but doing it correctly ensures maximum effectiveness and good hygiene. Let's walk through the process step-by-step, addressing the common questions that arise.

Step-by-Step Application for a Secure Fit

1. Wash Your Hands: Before handling a new pad or removing an old one, always wash your hands with soap and water. This prevents the transfer of bacteria.
2. Unwrap the Pad: Disposable pads come individually wrapped. Peel open the wrapper. The wrapper itself can often be used to dispose of your used pad later. Unfold the pad and peel off the paper strip that covers the adhesive on the back. If the pad has wings, there will be smaller paper strips covering their adhesive as well.
3. Position the Pad: Center the adhesive side of the pad onto the crotch area of your underwear. The goal is to align the widest part of the pad with the widest part of your anatomy. Press it down firmly so the adhesive sticks securely to the fabric.
4. Secure the Wings: If your pad has wings, fold them over the edges of your underwear and press them firmly against the underside. The wings are not just for leak protection; they are an anchor, preventing the pad from twisting or bunching up as you move.
5. Wash Your Hands Again: Once you are done, wash your hands one more time.

How Often Should You Change Your Pad?

This is a question many people have. There is no single magic number, but a good rule of thumb is to change your sanitary napkin every 4 to 6 hours. However, this is just a guideline. You should change your pad more frequently if your flow is heavy and you feel the pad becoming saturated.

Leaving a pad on for too long is not just a matter of leak prevention. A warm, moist pad can become a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to odors and, in rare cases, skin irritation or infection. Even if your flow is very light, it is a good hygienic practice to change your pad regularly throughout the day to stay fresh and comfortable. For overnight pads, they are designed for longer wear, but you should change it first thing in the morning.

Proper Disposal and Environmental Considerations

Proper disposal is a matter of hygiene, courtesy, and plumbing maintenance. A sanitary napkin should never, ever be flushed down the toilet. The materials, especially the absorbent core and plastic backsheet, do not break down in water. They can cause severe clogs in home plumbing and municipal sewer systems.

The correct method of disposal is simple:

1. Remove the used pad from your underwear.
2. Roll it up tightly, with the soiled side facing inward.
3. Wrap it in the wrapper from your new pad or in a bit of toilet paper. This contains any mess and odor.
4. Place the wrapped pad in a designated waste bin. In public restrooms, there is usually a small, covered bin in each stall for this specific purpose.

This simple act of wrapping and binning is a fundamental part of responsible pad usage.

Broader Implications: The Social and Environmental Context

A sanitary napkin is more than just a product; it is an object that exists at the intersection of public health, environmental science, and social equity. Understanding its place in the world gives us a fuller picture of its significance.

Menstrual Equity and Access to Products

While many of us can walk into a store and choose from dozens of options, this is a privilege not afforded to everyone. "Period poverty" is the term for the lack of access to menstrual products, hygiene facilities, and education. For many in low-income communities, both in developing nations and here at home, the cost of pads can be a significant financial burden (Visser, 2024). This can lead to missed days of school or work, the use of unsafe and unhygienic alternatives, and a profound sense of shame. Advocating for menstrual equity—ensuring that everyone who menstruates has access to the products they need—is a global movement. This includes initiatives to remove taxes on menstrual products, provide them for free in schools and public facilities, and support organizations that distribute them to those in need.

The Environmental Footprint of Disposable Pads

The convenience of disposable sanitary napkins comes at an environmental cost. A conventional pad is made primarily of plastics and wood pulp, and it is designed for a single use. The vast majority of used pads end up in landfills, where they can take centuries to decompose. The plastic components and the non-biodegradable SAPs contribute to plastic pollution (PMC, 2024).

This environmental impact has been a major driver of innovation in recent years. It has spurred the growth of the reusable product market, including cloth pads and menstrual cups. It has also pushed manufacturers of disposable products to seek more sustainable solutions.

The Rise of Sustainable Alternatives and Bio-Based Materials

In response to environmental concerns, there is a growing field of research dedicated to creating more eco-friendly disposable pads. Scientists are exploring the use of natural, renewable fibers like bamboo, jute, or agricultural waste to replace traditional wood pulp (Sadaf et al., 2025). The biggest challenge is developing bio-based and biodegradable Super Absorbent Polymers. The goal is to create a pad that offers the same high performance and convenience as a conventional pad but is made from materials that will break down more quickly and with less environmental harm. As a consumer, you can support this shift by seeking out brands that are transparent about their materials and are investing in sustainable innovation. For those interested in a wide array of hygiene solutions, exploring options from a comprehensive wholesale supplier can provide insight into the latest market trends.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the difference between a sanitary napkin and a tampon? A sanitary napkin, or pad, is worn externally, adhering to your underwear to absorb menstrual flow after it leaves the body. A tampon is an internal product, inserted into the vaginal canal to absorb the flow before it leaves the body. The choice between them is entirely personal and based on comfort, lifestyle, and preference.

2. Can I go swimming while wearing a sanitary napkin? No, a sanitary napkin is not suitable for swimming. It is designed to absorb liquid, and it will absorb the pool or ocean water just as readily as menstrual fluid, becoming heavy, waterlogged, and ineffective. For swimming during your period, internal products like tampons or a menstrual cup are the appropriate choice.

3. How do I prevent leaks when using a pad? Leak prevention involves a few key strategies: choose the right absorbency for your flow, change your pad regularly (every 4-6 hours), ensure the pad is centered correctly in your underwear, and use pads with wings for extra security and to prevent shifting. For nighttime, always use a specially designed overnight pad.

4. What does it mean if a pad is "fragrance-free"? It means the pad has no added perfumes or deodorizing chemicals. Many people prefer fragrance-free pads because the chemicals used in fragrances can be a common cause of skin irritation, itching, or allergic reactions in the sensitive genital area.

5. Can you flush sanitary napkins down the toilet? Absolutely not. Sanitary napkins are made of absorbent materials and plastics that do not break down in water. Flushing them can cause serious and expensive blockages in your home's plumbing and in public sewer systems. Always wrap a used pad and dispose of it in a trash bin.

6. What are the wings on a pad for? The wings are adhesive flaps on the sides of the pad that you fold over the edges of your underwear. They serve two main purposes: they help anchor the pad securely in place to prevent it from bunching or twisting as you move, and they provide an extra barrier along the sides to help prevent leaks.

7. How do I choose between an ultra-thin and a maxi pad? The choice depends on your flow and comfort preference. An ultra-thin pad uses a highly compressed, efficient core and is very discreet, making it great for daytime wear with light-to-moderate flow. A maxi pad is thicker and more cushioned, which some find more comfortable, and is also suitable for moderate-to-heavy flow.

Conclusión

The journey to understand what a sanitary napkin is takes us far beyond a simple definition. We see it as a product of sophisticated material science, a reflection of our changing social norms, and a deeply personal tool for health and well-being. From the absorbent core that locks away fluid to the breathable backsheet that provides comfort, every component is designed with a specific purpose. By learning to decode the different types, absorbency levels, and features, you empower yourself. You move from being a passive consumer to an informed individual capable of selecting the precise product that meets your body's unique needs. This knowledge fosters confidence, eliminates anxiety, and transforms the experience of managing menstruation from a challenge into a simple, manageable aspect of life. Making a thoughtful choice about your sanitary napkin is a small but significant act of self-care.

References

Nabta Health. (2024, November 20). What are sanitary pads?. Nabtahealth.com. https://nabtahealth.com/article/what-are-sanitary-pads/?srsltid=AfmBOop4O_yCmmLaRHPgmk2i1U2uhsoO0jNE06qME9Pi6m7A2l-RwcJr

National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2024, November 4). Environmental impact of menstrual hygiene products. PMC. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11865846/

Sadaf, S., Asim, M., & Ahmad, S. (2025, August 9). Sustainable sanitary pads: A comprehensive review of natural fibers and bio-based superabsorbent polymers for eco-friendly menstrual hygiene. PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40930371/

Schutte-Smith, M. (2025, July 22). Review: Sanitary pads—composition, regulation, and ongoing research to address associated challenges. Journal of Materials Science, 60, 1-24. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10853-025-11151-7

Visser, H. G. (2024, April 13). Toward sustainable menstrual health management: Focus on super absorbent polymers. Journal of Materials Science. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10853-024-09519-2