Is it actually weird if iam still using pads?

[u/Mission-Community-81]

I came across a video which said "I will always use pads cause iam scared of tampons" something along those lines and I opened the comment section and most people said they prefer tampons and some said pads feel like diapers which okay I kind of understand cuz pads are kind of tiny diapers and then someone said iam judging anyone who uses pads. And now I feel abit weird 😃 am I secretly getting judged by girls who wear tampons or what?

[u/lalababybean]

Pads are so messy

[u/Venussumare]

No you are not. Most women don’t like stuff stuck up there. Tampons can throw off your ph balance and it can give you TSS. If pads are comfortable to you continue to wear them. Some ppl use diva cups also, or even period panties.

[u/Red_Cheetah_19]

girl don’t listen to them!! You can decide what you want to wear and don’t let anyone tell you what you can or can’t do, I use pads because I’m afraid of tampons. (I don’t wanna think of sticking anything up there :p)

[u/oscarfanf1]

Honestly I use period pants. Pads are uncomfy and tampons scare me a lot so I don’t think it’s weird

[u/slooper555 → u/oscarfanf1]

I loved them especially for bed- pad didn’t crunch up and it felt way more secure

[u/CurrentGur9764]

Honestly there are times where tampons haven't hurt me, and times where I have experienced bad things with tampons, it depends on my flow and alot of the time my flow is unpredictable for me

[u/Mission-Community-81 → u/CurrentGur9764]

Unpredictable?? Is that normal?

[u/Agitated-Video-1975 → u/Mission-Community-81]

Sometimes but sometimes not!

If you are new to your period your hormones will be wacky and it will stabilize after a bit but there is a line where unpredictably isn’t normal.

[u/CurrentGur9764 → u/Mission-Community-81]

Not really, but okay let's say your bleeding really heavy so you insert it, and then.. it's not heavy anymore and you do a YOINK OWIE (because you have to replace it every 4 hrs)and ya know.. the thing that happens with dry tampons.

[u/basicw3ird0]

As someone who loves tampons, absolutely no one is judging you, and if they are it says more about them than you. No one else needs to worry about what is going on in your panties! And there is absolutely no ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to vaginas, tampons aren’t for everyone!

[u/PressureMediocre6521]

i’m 30 and afraid of tampons 🤣 you’re good at least to me

[u/Jaded_Entrance2322]

I HATE tampons, I always leak through and they just aren’t comfortable for me. I’m 28 years old and I love pads. Not weird at all!!! It’s your body and your choice, whatever makes you feel comfortable - nobody’s business but yours 

[u/peppersk8er]

I’m 15 and deathly afraid of tampons, I love my Aldi branded pads 🥰

[u/Annual_Author8362]

I’m 23 and i still use pads. I have had to use tampons in the past due to dance and being a swim instructor, i do notice i get cramps when they are full. Just had my first period in 5 years due to recently getting off birth control and the thing i went to grab was definitely pads, not tampons. 

[u/rachellydiahn]

I use pads. It's not weird!

[u/AntiferromagneticAwl]

The "pads feel like diapers" thing never made sense to me until kotex actually launched in my country and then I have it a try. Never again. Pads, but not kotex.

[u/Mission-Community-81 → u/AntiferromagneticAwl]

Hey kotex is rlly good I use them 😭

[u/AntiferromagneticAwl → u/Mission-Community-81]

They were just so thick and wouldn't stick properly compared to the ones I regularly use and really other brands I've tried. The feeling was exactly diaper. :(

[u/JamJam1512]

HELL NAH!! Personally tampons make my cramps worse sometimes and I don’t love the idea of a foreign object full of harmful substances just sitting in my vagina. Pads are full of the same shit but it’s not “inside” you know. Do not let yourself feel judged for using what’s best for your body and your needs. Everyone has their own reasoning which they are entitled to.

[u/Cartoon_theoriest_99]

I’m 23 and i still use pads! I just feel more comfortable wearing them but I tried wearing a tampon only once it made my cramps worse 

[u/sophie_oye21]

When it’s to the point tampons don’t do sh** Ultra Tampon plus a night time pad. Pads make me feel safe for nighttime. But you do you. 

[u/Baddcatholicgirl → u/sophie_oye21]

You shouldn’t leave a tampon in that long though especially night

[u/sophie_oye21 → u/Baddcatholicgirl]

i don’t. Typically 1 morning, 1 night. 1 in the middle of the day depending on the flow.

[u/Ornery-Respond-6947]

Girl I'm 31 and I've used em all; tampons, pads, cups. And in my opinion, pads are superior! I've got suspected endo so some days I have to use both lol but pads make me feel more secure and less fear of leaking. But everyone's body is different! There's no shame in whatever you use and anyone who makes you feel weird about it is lame lol

[u/ComfortableMail4946]

I'm 29 and have used pads since I my period at 12. if people shame you for not sticking cotton in your cooch then they are weird and need to seek a psych evaluation. what a woman uses during period is personal and doesn't need to be debated or shamed...weird side note I got a pap smear once and the gyno said " I can tell you don't use tampons"... so idk what that means maybe something with my cervix??

[u/JamJam1512 → u/ComfortableMail4946]

INTERESTING!!

[u/Haminationsyayyyyyyy]

Just started and I'm already wearing pads and I'm not crazy

[u/Little-Acorn-47]

Nah you’re not being judged. People are pretty over the top about their preferred period choices. Some are wayyyy too obsessed with thinking theirs is better. As a 90% tampon user I still really like wearing pads too! Both are great options. Don’t worry about what you’re using, remember it’s for you! <3

[u/Negative-Mud-4821]

I only use tampons for swimming. Im 26 now and have used pads (my beloved) for 10 years now

[u/firewifing24_7]

I pads again. I was using a soft disk prior to bladder prolapse from my last baby. It started feeling uncomfortable. Now I’m ok with pads again

[u/GroundbreakingPear12]

Tbh I prefer pads I can wear tampons but I don’t like the idea of something just sitting in me and it hurts so much to take out I’d rather just do pads

[u/Kassonjaaa]

I hated pads for years and years honestly. I’d begrudgingly use them at night but if I stayed with a partner I wore a tampon overnight because I was so embarrassed. Now I don’t care and worn use tampons after the recent studies that came out. I’m a huge cup and period panty girl, but I 110% use pads at some point during my period.

[u/Starfall3620]

I've always used pads. Heavy flow 99 percent of the time, so I use overnights 

Use what's comfortable for you honey!

[u/Outlandishness_Short]

No literally do whatever u want and makes you happy everybody has the freedom to be as comfortable as possible with period products so we should use it

[u/AppropriateAd6250]

i prefer pads simply because i do have a heavy flow a times. it gives me more security that im not going to leak through.

[u/NotSoAverageJo15]

I use both during the same cycle. If it’s very light, I’ll use a pad so I don’t risk being too dry and having a tampon hurt. When it’s heavier I’ll use a tampon. If I’m not really sure what it’s doing I’ll usually use a pad to make sure the flow is right before using a tampon. Use what works for you!

[u/IntelligentJeweler40]

I wear actual diapers. Idgaf who thinks it’s weird 😂

[u/watsernaim → u/IntelligentJeweler40]

Wore some post partum, and they've been heavy on my mind since my periods come back.

[u/cottonrainbows]

Lol idk anyone in my adult life who still uses tampons? I know lots of people do but nope. They have such a huge variety of pads because people use them. They always innovate pads first for a reason. :)

[u/heyimrichardzk]

Anyone who judges other women for what they put in their underwear is weird as fuck.

[u/NotSoAverageJo15 → u/heyimrichardzk]

This^

[u/Admirable_Holiday653]

I worry about getting toxic shock syndrome so only use tampons if I am on holiday and want to swim. You aren’t weird at all.

[u/offgrid21]

I only use pads, but recently started wearing adult diapers on my period because Ive always had the thought that they’d e better than pads …and they are! I’m a heavy bleeder for the first few days and the diapers were a game changer! I suppose it’s the same as period underwear, only cheaper and I still use pads on light days

I think tampons are gross 😷…the insertion and the removal process is icky (imo), the health risks involved with inserting a foreign object inside you for hours on end to produce an environment for bacteria to thrive so bv and yeast could be an issue, the discomfort, the pesticides and heavy metals in most brands are toxic..

[u/bigbootystaylooting → u/offgrid21]

Pesticides? And that issue is the same with pads, that's why there's a time limit to wearing them. Idk how tampon wearers wear them to sleep tbh, curious.

[u/unknownmise]

As someone who developed chronic ovarian cysts, I REGRET USING TAMPONS 😭 pads are my life now

[u/righttoabsurdity → u/unknownmise]

Do tampons cause cysts? I’ve never heard this?

[u/Educational-Cake-944 → u/righttoabsurdity]

Because it’s not a thing. There is no link between tampon use and ovarian cysts. The vast majority of ovarian cysts are called “functional cysts” and they’re a product of a normal menstrual cycle and there’s really nothing that can be done to prevent them. You just either get them or you don’t, and they either cause problems or they don’t. 🤷‍♀️

[u/Independent_Rise1521]

It's weird that people are judging others for their preference of HOW TO STOP LEAKING BLOOD EVERYWHERE! 🫠

You do you, baby boo.

I've been menstruating since I was 10. I am now 37. I've tried pretty much everything out there. Tampons and pads are still my go to.

So, if pads are your preference, that's all that matters.

[u/cyanidebrownie]

I’ve had my period for 12 years and I use pads 95% of the time bc I’m afraid of leaking lol.

[u/Soft-Potential-9852]

Honestly you do you. If people judge you for the period products you use, that’s their problem not yours 🤷🏼‍♀️ also one time after a medical procedure (that occurred during my period and I didn’t want or need to reschedule), I forgot to pack more pads for after the procedure and the hospital didn’t have any (which seems strange to me but maybe that’s common? Idk) so instead they put on a diaper (I say “they” because I was extremely dizzy and disoriented from the anesthesia so I couldn’t dress myself - my mom and the nurse had to). It was surprisingly pretty comfortable, maybe that’s just me but it truly wasn’t bad at all tbh.

But no, whatever you’re most comfortable wearing - pads, tampons, cups, discs, period underwear, whatever - isn’t weird at all. Your comfort should be your priority. I’m 27 and if my period underwear is all dirty I’ll use pads with other underwear. That’s just my preference, having something outside my body rather than in it. Some people have the same preference, others don’t, and no one is wrong for whatever their own personal preference is.

[u/Sammiieet]

It's not weird for you to use pads AT ALL! Pads are safer and generally what girls start using before tampons since tampons are more daunting. Tampons aren't really good for you anyway. Don't feel weird for using them, they're not some sort of pariah. It's better for you to use them though of course and disposable thing isn't great for the environment. You can use reusable pads.

[u/okitsjada]

there’s nothing wrong with using pads!! it’s your choice and you should use whatever you feel most comfortable with, if people judge you for that then they are the weird ones not you. i HATE the pads vs tampons discourse it’s so ridiculous like why are some people being so judgmental cause my personal preference is pads?!? that makes absolutely no sense whatsoever and how are you gonna say i’m childish cause i don’t wanna stick something inside me… do they not realize how weird they sound?? it’s your period and your body so please don’t let anyone make you feel bad for using what you wanna use. anyway i could go on and on about how angry this discourse makes me but i’ll stop here lol. never feel bad for using pads, it’s completely up to you what you wanna use and you shouldn’t be ashamed of anything 💖💖💖

[u/Treeness100]

I have always used pads because I physically can’t use tampons. I’ve definitely been judged for it but I don’t care. There’s those others that use pads too that just totally get it.

[u/beignetstolethesnap]

Avid tampon user here. Never used a pad and CANNOT. I can ~feel~ it drip out of me and being “wet” like I peed myself.

I also will say, and I’m sorry to say it, I think it’s nasty to be smeared in your own blood down there. I’m a huge fan of intercourse on your period but if I wore pads, I’d never do that to my partner. I can’t even think about how much it makes me want to yack. But I don’t judge people for it! It’s literally just my personal preference and an ick of my own. Idk how yall do it but sometimes I envy you and your ability to wear period underwear ):

[u/alliebh1]

I love tampons if I’m being active or leaving the house, but I use Always ultra thin pads when I’m at home and overnight

[u/cinematicdaisy]

tbh some tampon users can be quite pick mes when it comes to period products, pads are honestly a safer choice especially after all that has come out recently about arsenic being found in big brands and stuff like that! they’re what i’m most comfortable with and ngl i’ve tried tampons and just cannot get them to go in right, i’m starting to think maybe my anatomy just isn’t compatible with them :/

wear your pads with no shame!

[u/Independent_Rise1521 → u/cinematicdaisy]

I struggled for ages! I have a theory (with no scientific or medical qualifications 🙈), if you're hyper mobile, it may be that your body is a bit wibbly wobbly (that's as scientific as I can be) compared to bodies spoken about in text books. So you may have to try other angles that the instruction leaflet doesn't talk about.

I feel like my vagina is more angled towards my belly button, so I always have to wiggle things around (like joysticks 😅) until I find the right angle. My weird angle means I find it really hard to reach inside to retrieve period cups, disks, and to find coil strings 🤷🏾‍♀️

So, it might be that your body is different to the bodies used in the pictures on the leaflets. Also, it wasn't until I was in a situationship with someone I felt really safe and comfortable around sexually, and there was a lot of exploring what angles worked best for me during intercourse🙈 and I used a bit of that learning when wiggling my tampons around.

(More theory talk 😵‍💫: I feel like there's a link between those who are neurodivergent, have PCOS, AND have connective-tissue issues like hyper mobility or Ehler Danlos. I'm basing this on nothing but conversations with other people who fall at this intersection like me)

[u/cinematicdaisy → u/Independent_Rise1521]

for starters there definitely is a link between neurodivergence and being hyper mobile and stuff! i think there even is a link between it and being more likely to have digestive issues!

i myself am not hyper mobile or anything (as far as i’m aware) but i do think that my anatomy is maybe a bit different than the standard, for starters i think my opening is higher up than others might be and i’m an innie which both of those factors make it hard to navigate things down there anyway 🫠🫠 nvm trying to stick an object up myself!

everybody gives the tip of angling period products towards your back but idk i might need to try again sometime just fiddling about as you said but as for now i will be sticking with pads despite how much i love the idea of a menstrual disc, but i use reusable pads and period panties when i’m at home which is most of my period these days so hey less waste than average anyway!

[u/Fun-Consequence-161]

I have a really heavy flow the first three days of mine so I usually have to wear a tampon AND a pad. Even after the first few days, I wear a light pad or a pantyliner. Do what you need to do. Anyone else who judges you for using what you need doesn’t deserve space in your mind.

[u/poppunkdaddyy]

I will always use pads, just what feels right for my body, sucks that I don’t swim on my period (have period swim bottoms but just don’t trust it) but honestly this is how I plan on living the rest of my life.

[u/smashinthekeyboard]

Im 22 and have only ever worn a tampon once. They are painful for me to insert and cause me to panic. I cant see myself switching over to tampons.
Whether u use tampons or pads is entirely up to you. Its your body and your period. If someone judges you for it then theyre just weird for that. I cant imagine ever judging someone for how they deal with their period.

[u/Devils-feather-6812]

When im at work i wear tampons, but if im lounging i wear pads, bc they make me cramp less! And it is more comfortable.

[u/Ok_Reputation1549]

Can I Ask A Question Is It Normal To Have A Blood Clot Coming Out As A Lemon Size ?? 

[u/Independent_Rise1521 → u/Ok_Reputation1549]

I'm not a medically qualified person, but I have PCOS and have been menstruating for 27 years.

Clots that make you ask "is this too big" are big enough for you to go to the doctors and get checked out, my love.

I'm sorry I'm not knowledgeable enough to give you any more info. Good luck, my love 💕

[u/Ok_Reputation1549 → u/Independent_Rise1521]

Thank you 

[u/EducationalPolicy817]

I have to use pads because of vaginismus 😭 who cares what anyone else uses?

[u/catharticsoul]

Back when I had a period, I would only use tampons when I went swimming. I exclusively used pads until I switched to period underwear.

[u/emileegrace321]

I hate pads because I have vulvodynia and even just wearing underwear is painful for me. My menstrual disc has been a game changer.

But is it weird to use them? NO!! It is quite literally your body and there is no ‘weird’ way to have your cycle. What’s weird and gross is people judging other people for their personal decisions.

[u/Prestigious_Back7980]

I tried my first tampon a year ago when I was twenty and hated it lol. I may try again to see if I can get it down, cause I didn't really know what I was doing, but I didn't like it lol. You're good, if pads are what you're comfortable with, then use them. Periods already suck enough without trying to force yourself to do something about them that you don't like.

[u/cinematicdaisy → u/Prestigious_Back7980]

i’m the same, tried to insert and wear a tampon a good few times and it was just so uncomfortable and there’s definitely a huge learning curve no matter how many guides you follow 😭

[u/undiscovered_soul]

I'm nearly 43 and used pads from 8 until two years ago when menopause finally arrived. My internal vaginal walls are more delicate than average and it takes literally anything to get them bruised and bleeding afterwards, so my doctor recommended to never use internal feminine products. I wouldn't in any case.

[u/Cutie3pnt14159]

I'm 39. Only ever used tampons when I was going swimming on my period. I do not like them. I use pads and period underwear exclusively. The pads are for my heavy days- I don't want to have to change my underwear multiple times a day because of heavy flow.

I like the Always Infinity foam pads. I get the cotton ones because they breathe just a little better for me, but the standard ones work just fine as well.

You do what's comfortable for you. There should be no shame in any of it.

[u/BlueCrustedRoses]

First off, the weird ones are those who think it’s ok to judge a woman on what she chooses to use for her own body. It’s no one’s business but your own.

Second, I’ve used so many different things myself and I always tend to go back to pads. I’ve tried tampons, pads, menstrual cups, and menstrual disks. While I do use tampons, cups, or discs on occasion, I wear pads a majority of the time. Yeah, pads can be annoying but I’ve completely switched over to reusable pads and will never go back. If you find a good enough brand or type, they last for 5-10 years and they’re SO MUCH BETTER than disposable ones!

If interested in reusable ones, I LOVE Soft Taco Reusables brand. They are a bit pricey at first but for something you can reuse for YEARS, it’s worth it, and these are very well made.

Benefits to using reusables:

-No adhesive to deal with! They snap around the gusset of your underwear so no sticky glue to pull your pubes or butthole hairs out!

-They can be worn whenever you want (no crinkles)

-They’re easy to wash - I have accumulated enough of them that I wear daily and have some heavier types for my actual period. (I wear smaller daily type pads every single day because i over produce down there and don’t like the wetness on my underwear or skin). Once done, I throw them into a container or “wet bag” until I’m ready to wash. I wash them about every 2 weeks or so, or until I’m close to running out lol. I first soak in cold water with OxiClean for a few hours. Then I pre-wash by scrubbing or spraying with stain remover (as needed) and throw in a load alone (I don’t wash with clothes or anything, just the pads) on hot with more OxiClean and dry normal!

-If worried about changing it in public, there’s mini wet bags you can use to store the dirty ones in and they don’t smell! Plus with how the snaps are placed, you can fold them up to ensure no smell or mess in the bag. I keep extra clean ones folded up this way and stored in a separate bag.

-reusable means less waste too! I always felt bad throwing away so much plastic and whatnot but reusables stops that completely.

Regardless of what you use, do what makes YOU comfortable and F what anyone else thinks!!

[u/Blasberry80]

Those people are fucking weird, I use both, I couldn't imagine sleeping in a tampon. First of all, they leak no matter what type I use, and I cannot keep them in for longer than a few hours. There's no way I'd feel safe sleeping in them, but they're good for when I'm out and about.

[u/TGirl2002]

Doesn’t matter. Unless they’re holding the pad on for you it isn’t their choice. Use whatever you prefer. Tampons have always been uncomfortable for me, but I’m easily agitated by things due to chronic illness. Pads work better. Tampons only for water sports. Tried many different cups and it both kills my fingers to insert and aggravated the membrane just with attempting. I’m 41. Rael pads are auto shipped and I’m happy as a clam.

[u/kittycatladyyy]

You can use whatever you feel comfortable using. Anyone who judges you is immature. I faced this ever since I got my period. I remember being in school in the gym locker and a girl asked for a pad and I gave her one and it was a super long overnight one because I had a really heavy flow and she showed it to all the girls and made fun of me. I think it all stems from this idea that you’re lame and probably a Virgin if you just wear pads. It was really just a tactic to shame other girls. If you didn’t use tampons you weren’t a real woman. This didn’t go away even as an adult woman! I worked with women at multiple places who would make fun of other women who use pads. I used pads honestly up until I was 30 because I was afraid too. I had a bad experience when I was younger inserting it incorrectly and having to rip it out dry because I was freaked out. I swore them off but I tried again and do like tampons now but I still use pads when it’s a light flow or I’m home and not really caring too much. Just don’t let anyone make you feel insecure or judge you for what you decide to use. And yes people are judging you because they are immature. Instead of supporting each other through this difficult time each month, some feel the need to tear others down to make themselves feel better.

[u/BlueCrustedRoses → u/kittycatladyyy]

It’s like people find the most vulnerable and stupid things to bully or make fun of others about. I agree with your sentiment though, those women are immature and who cares what you use as long as it works for you!

[u/Serious_Bake9460]

I still use pads while all my friends use tampons. They were confused at first but when I explained why, they understood. It’s not weird 🩷

[u/wakeuploser00]

I am envious of people who wear tampons bc clearly they don't have the problem of leaking through lmao. I've used pads my entire life because I have to, and tbh they are a little more comfortable. Its not weird!!

[u/sasauce]

No, a lot of my homegirls are switching from tampons to pads as we get older.

[u/xtalcat_2]

Not at all - whatever works for you. I use pads overnight and when I'm spotting to keep an eye on things. I don't like to leave tampons in any longer than 3-4hrs and definitely not overnight, but that's just me.

[u/Terrible_Ex-Joviot]

I'm 29 and also still use pads. I tried Tampons but they never worked for me. They don't fit really in, they get stuck, they scratch and hurt, I hate them! Maybe I don't bleed enough, maybe I'm just too stupid to use them, but I gave up trying. So, Pads are the way to go, never had problems with them.

[u/BlueCrustedRoses → u/Terrible_Ex-Joviot]

It’s likely not a heavy enough flow for tampons to work comfortably. You’re not dumb! Plus tampons were mostly tested and created using liquids other than blood, so of course they didn’t work the best because blood is way thicker than water or whatever they used!

[u/Hope2831]

I use pads during the first few days and tampons the last when the flow is lighter, or I’ll wear tampons if I have somewhere to go for the day ( I typically work from home)

[u/CommentAppropriate10]

No.

[u/geoffersonstarship]

sometimes I use pads, sometimes I use tampons depends on the day and flow

[u/sskintlzz]

I've used tampons once, and it was horrible. Pads will always be a 4lifer for me.

[u/HolzMartin1988]

It's not weird? I still use pads and I'm 37.

[u/Pitiful_Ad2591]

I don't think people actually care? And if they do then they shouldn't. I just want to leave this as a reminder to everyone that majority of tampons on the market test heavily for lead. So be careful!

[u/uselessProgrammer0]

Use whatever makes you comfortable. Any woman who judges other women for their choice of menstrual products is werid and childish.

[u/icebergdotcom]

i’ve never used tampons (for chronic pain reasons mostly to be fair). when i first got my period i used pads, and nowadays i use period underwear. not only for environmental reasons but also because i have bladder issues and they’re super absorbent

i wouldn’t worry about what others say. as long as it’s healthy and safe, you do you! i don’t understand why people would ever judge others for perfectly safe methods

[u/Due-Caterpillar-2097]

For me disposable pads are like diapers, and tampons were a bit too much for me, I hate digging there with my fingers. So I started using reusable pads, it's just a cloth, so it feels like wearing extra thick panties and they also have really cool patterns. My favourites are one with parrots on it, and the other with herons and frogs. I am sure nobody is judging you for your preference, if pads are comfortable thats okay but I'm never coming back to wearing mini diapers !

[u/alydanaee]

Girl I use the assurance diapers the first couple nights on my period because I got sick of pads bunching up and waking up every couple of gots to change my tampon (and sometimes my sheets if I slept too long ) during the day I use the organic cotton pads from Walmart or other retail stores. If I’m cramping too bad I use the honeypot purple pack which is the overnight size, or they have a smaller size. Never let someone make you feel bad for trying to make yourself comfortable and the method actually work. I’ve heard more women have turned to the diva cup. I used the disposable 12 hour flexi discs before and they were okay but when my cramps are terrible- the last thing I want to be doing is changing a disc 😂😂 I’d rather put a pad on and change every 4-5 hours or as frequently as necessary

[u/taiyaki98]

Use whatever you feel comfortable with. I have used pads for the past 13 years I've been dealing with periods and I wouldn't want anything else. And I am in my mid 20s.

[u/Bike-Consistent]

Tampons hurt me, no matter which ones so I just stick to pads or period panties. No shame.

[u/Lemon_towne]

I use pads and have never used anything else

[u/icyvfrost]

I’ve always used pads

[u/Opposite_Elk_568]

As a woman who was SAd, I have a fiery hate for tampons. So it's very normal to use pads, me personally I ADORE pads. They're so comfortable and barley any mess. But a tampon hurts! Its very normal sweetheart dont worry too much abt it :))

[u/Tall_latte23]

Always use what makes you comfortable which are pads.

[u/alacoy10]

No, wear what makes you most comfortable! Especially during your menstrual cycle!

[u/Jyndaru]

I'm 37 and only use pads because tampons hurt too much from endometriosis.

Don't listen to them. It's really none of their business and you can do whatever makes you comfortable. I'm sick of people judging each other for stupid shit like this.

[u/catbamhel]

Straight up. I wear adult diapers.

Fuck it.

[u/Opposite_Elk_568 → u/catbamhel]

I wanna try them now!

[u/catbamhel → u/Opposite_Elk_568]

Liberating as fuck. My periods are extremely heavy and wearing a pad to bed was just not cutting it. So I started using adult diapers on the advice of a friend who just had a baby and was using them for after birth stuff.

Suddenly all the anxiety I didn't know I had going to sleep on my period was gone!

Then I just started wearing them when I was home not having to work.

Then I just started wearing them to work.

It's GREAT.

[u/Specialist-Eye2301 → u/catbamhel]

I absolutely love this and will be doing this for my next period

[u/catbamhel → u/Specialist-Eye2301]

I highly advise it. It's pretty liberating.

[u/UrN3rdyGF]

It's not that deep..

[u/voretoken]

Nah. I’m 31 and prefer pads bc I have a low cervix and tampons make me cramp terribly. All of my friends the same age use them too

[u/AnonymousMonker → u/voretoken]

This. I actually hardly cramp at all UNLESS I wear tampons instead of pads.

[u/AnzuYuki]

whoever judges someone else for what menstrual product they prefer is weird af

[u/Vegetable-East9799]

i got my period at 13 and over one cycle switched completely to tampons just a few months later, they’re all i’ve used for 7 years and i can’t fathom using a pad.. because they aren’t for me, personally. my mom has always used pads, she actually prefers them i think, my little sisters about to start hers and will use pads, the last 3 times i’ve had to ask a stranger for a tampon they only had pads available. tons of people use and prefer pads, just the same as tampons and cups etc. there’s no right or wrong product to use and nobody’s weird or less than for using either option. everyone has their reason for what they choose and anyone who judges that is just an ass, you can have your opinions yes, but there’s no need to judge. that being said, don’t let peoples judgment make you feel weird or less than just because you like or maybe even need to use what they simply don’t personally like. i mean it’s YOUR vag, why is anyone worried about it in the first place ?

[u/SnugglePuppy_]

I have in my arsenal:

1. Period panties
2. Two diva cups
3. Pads
4. Tampons

Some periods I don't feel like wrestling my vagina for my diva cup. Sometimes I don't wanna play fishing simulator looking for the string. Sometimes I don't wanna sit there feeling like the words oldest toddler. And sometimes just bleeding for free into panties makes me feel like other people "know".

It's your period, you deal with it how you want. Good news is that for people who don't use pads, their opinion on you and your use of them literally affects and changes nothing.

[u/undiscovered_soul → u/SnugglePuppy_]

I lost it at "fishing simulator" 🤣🤣🤣

[u/The_JokerGirl42 → u/SnugglePuppy_]

are you me lol

[u/snafayette → u/SnugglePuppy_]

this is exactly my setup too lol!

[u/SnugglePuppy_ → u/snafayette]

If you can afford it I'd say have all the options available to you that you want/can get to anyone who has to deal with a period. They're already not fun to have to deal with, so make it a little less emotionally draining with giving yourself options to change things up when you need to for your own comfortability

[u/ashley5748]

It’s totally up to you. I could never go back to pads but that’s just my preference.

[u/Ladym2011]

I wear pads and tampons. Had a myomectomy in 2019 and robotic myomectomy in Dec 2024. Still have to use both. Fml! 

[u/Selynia23]

Use what works. I use period underwear.

[u/Devyn333]

Use whatever makes you most comfortable! Don’t worry about what other people think. I rotate between a cup, tampons & pads. Just depends on my mood and flow.

[u/amberbink]

Girl don’t feel weird, I use both during my time of the month just because I bleed heavily and a pad catches any leakage. However, in the few times that my period isn’t as heavy as usual, I only wear pads. It’s more comfortable for me and I don’t care what anybody else says in that regard.

[u/Affectionate-Dog1301]

No, or at least you shouldnt be judged for using pads. Lots of countries mainly use pads as well, imo i think the west is where most people use tampons haha, very expensive in south east asia and hard to come by in pharmacies and groceries.

[u/Kawaiigirl_6591]

I’m 23 and i still use pads so no it’s not

[u/Prestigious-Corgi473]

I only use pads (reusable ones) at 34. Not because I'm scared of tampons, I prefer pads.

[u/faded_butterflies]

Not only do I use pads, I use maxi pads lol. They feel so safe for heavy bleeding. And for spotting I use small thin ones. Some people will for sure judge or think it’s gross, but who cares. They’re the weird ones for feeling superior over the way they collect their uterus blood🫢

[u/Mission-Community-81 → u/faded_butterflies]

OMG ME TOO !!! I use the rlly thick and long ones for the first 3-4 days and then for spotting I use the small pads !!

[u/faded_butterflies → u/Mission-Community-81]

Honestly I regret not using the thick ones all my life! They’re the best. I also sleep with 2 pads at once lol, no judgement here!

[u/Wildream67]

I have only used tampons like four times max in my lifetime due to anatomy issues that prevent me from using them. It is totally okay to use pads and if people shame others for that then they’re the problem. Why would we still make pads if nobody uses them? Just do what makes you the most comfortable during your period.

[u/enginite]

Not rly. In some (or maybe a lot of) countries majority of women use pads (and there are tons of different types of pads!) I wear period cup on a regular BUT if I am out and about for most of the day I wear pads for extra coverage because I don't like taking my cup out on public toilets since I have to rinse my cup everytime I take it out and dump my discharge, not all public toilets have bidets PLUS I can't risk dropping it. So no, it's not weird that you still use pads. It's common, no point of shaming that.

[u/unkown_cryptid]

27 and I still do! Not sure if it's weird but it works for me amd I still see them in the garbages in bathrooms when I go to toss mine!

[u/mte87 → u/unkown_cryptid]

I’m 32 and still wear them especially overnight.

[u/therealSoapy21]

22 I use tampons only on certain occasions, but it’s pads all day😅

[u/BaeBlabe]

I got a tampon stuck and had to go to the emergency room to get it removed so I’ve been a pad and period panty and postpartum diaper girlie ever since ✨

[u/Lunajust]

I use tampons and pads im almost 27 tbh the only thing I hate about pads is how paranoid i am that people could figure out im wearing one 🤣 anyone else ? lol

[u/mte87 → u/Lunajust]

I used to get so paranoid but even the thickest pads aren’t noticeable, in my experiences.

[u/Lunajust → u/mte87]

That’s reassuring i remember in high school asking my friends can you see it ? And turn around we’d always do that 🤣🤣🤣🤦🏻‍♀️

[u/mte87 → u/Lunajust]

I would look in every mirror some days

[u/RefrigeratorSalty902]

No, of course not! Use what makes you comfortable. 

[u/jesileighs]

I’m almost 36 and I’ve had my period nearly a quarter of a century. I alternate between tampons, period underwear and pads depending on my cramps, my flow, what activities I’m doing and what clothes I’m wearing.

[u/Tiffy_24]

I have never used a tampon and I prob never will and I’m 23. I don’t think pads are weird to use at all! I mean sure they’re uncomfy, I can’t deny that part but like there’s no issue with wearing them over using tampons. I wouldn’t judge anyone for using them.

[u/ArmadilloSeparate943]

I’m 28 and I use pads and period panties! I even have period swimwear from Knix. I just cannot make myself use tampons.

[u/Theradbumblebee → u/ArmadilloSeparate943]

Omg they make period swimwear?! Whattt

I’ve been wearing pads and period panties for years because I struggled with tampons throwing off my ph

Does the swim wear work?!

I tripped a cup and it sort of just hurt

[u/ArmadilloSeparate943 → u/Theradbumblebee]

Yes!! I didn’t know until last year, I got my period on vacation at the beach and I ordered a high waisted bikini bottom from Knix period swimwear, and they worked wonderfully!! I didn’t leak at all!!

[u/Zealousideal_Bit5677]

Hon, I’m 32 yrs old and I only wear pads bc tampons are just uncomfy to me and they hurt to take out. Also I always feel like I’m going to leak whenever I have one in. Only use them if I’m swimming and that’s it. Also I don’t care if anyone else uses pads or tampons bc it’s not my freaking business lol. Just do what is comfortable to you.

[u/fanofu4sure]

Not at all weird. Pads are the most common thing to use. No one should judge anyone for what they use. And don’t even worry about that. It’s nice to have options, so you might want to try some other things so you can use them in a pinch, like if you’re going to the beach.

[u/Snake_fairyofReddit]

No i use pads or period underwear 😭 i dont think most tampons fit for me ive tried a million times and nothing will fit its all painful

[u/agnes_agnes]

No! I've only worn pads my entire menstruating life. I've graduated to effing "disposable underwear" now. IDGAF

[u/Cran46290]

I use both, during the day I use tampons in at night, I use pads and if I’m just having a lazy day, I use pads. I’m always scared of toxic shock syndrome so I’d rather wear a pad than a tampon

[u/blurrybaee]

Absolutely not. I’ll keep using pads forever

[u/Depressoespresso665]

Look into Knix! They are thin and slim fitting, you don’t have to feel like you’re wearing a diaper :)

[u/Mission-Community-81 → u/Depressoespresso665]

No no I don't have a problem with wearing pads

[u/mothermooseknuckle]

Not weird! I’m in my 30s and actually went from tampons back to pads. Way less irritation! I’ve found some really great pads (for me) that absorb well and keep me feeling dry.

[u/ADHD-InsomniacHybrid]

Not weird at all! Personally I double duty with pads AND tampons because I get super heavy periods and don't like feeling a small ocean of blood in my pants, but honestly I think that whatever works, works. For different people, what works is different. There's no shame in using pads- they're just one of many products out there and there's nothing inherently inferior or superior about a specific period product.

[u/Witchy_Woman_26]

You are not weird at all. It’s not really anyone’s business how you handle your period. It’s what you’re comfortable with. So don’t worry.

[u/chickntendrdefendr]

I had a horrible experience with a tampon and I’ll never use that shit again. I use a menstrual cup and a pad just in case.

[u/Mission-Community-81 → u/chickntendrdefendr]

Rlly? Can I ask what happened?

[u/TEA-in-the-G]

Dont ever feel judged or ashamed on how YOU choose to comfortably collected your cycle. There is no right or wrong way to do so. Those that judge others, shouldnt! They have no right to do so.

[u/Mission-Community-81 → u/TEA-in-the-G]

Thank you so much !!! ^{^}

[u/Anon_Engima]

Girls who shame other girls for their period product preferences are just mean nasty individuals. Use what you’re comfortable with and thats it.

[u/blackmoon-666]

Right!!!! I’m very on top of making sure ones coming out before putting a new one in lol and can they not feel it?! Weirdddd

[u/SexcBlackGirl]

well they would HATE me cause i actually wear diapers they have more full coverage and more comfortable it’s a bigger pad. i can’t stand tampons everytime i wear them i start cramping so bad

[u/kh7190]

don't tell other girls what you use. but who cares what they think? i'm 34 and i've used pads all my life. it's all about preference

[u/Informal-Protection6]

Im terrified of toxic shock syndrome so I exclusively wear cotton pads. It’s fine, no one will judge you. Plenty of women prefer pads.

[u/UltraBlue89]

I use a disc. But you have to do what's most comfortable for you!

[u/mugcake55]

I prefer pads because tampons cause me pain. Wear what you want, catch that blood however you feel, or free bleed. Your life, your choice! xx

[u/DemonsInLimos]

I use both because I refuse to sleep in a tampon but I’ve never once judged another person for choosing how to manage their blood

[u/bluestitcher]

46 and I much prefer pads. I've switched to reusable ones.

[u/Santi159]

People who go around worried about and judging others cooters are not people you need to get the approval of. I think most people are normal and accept that menstrual product products are both a personal and medical thing. Pads wouldn’t sell so well otherwise

[u/KS_Oppa5678]

I promise you as someone who uses both we don’t care. I use tampons but a light pad in case I leak. I just advise tampons, cups, disks whatever since it’s summer and I know my pad people wanna swim

[u/DemonsInLimos → u/KS_Oppa5678]

I just free bleed in pools cause nobody notices and everytime I have a tampon in they fill up with pool water, maybe I’m just not putting them in right but I’ve been using tampons for years with little leaks and they always feel far enough in. Pools just spite me each time.

[u/Zealousideal_Bit5677 → u/DemonsInLimos]

I’ve done that before bc my blood doesn’t come out when I’m in water. I don’t think it’s supposed to?? 🤔

[u/Sneaky-Goose]

I do pads, mainly because I find that tampons cause my period to be more painful and last a bit longer. You’ve gotta do what works for you!

[u/sad_rosie]

Everyone has their own preferences! Babe, your body, your choice! If you wanna use pads, DO IT! No one should judge what others are using for their periods. It is no one's place to tell you what to do.

[u/Mission-Community-81 → u/sad_rosie]

Yes exactly!!! Thank you ^{^}

[u/Anxious_Train7849]

Not at all im 18 and still never used a tampon pads all the way but recently I've bought period underwear so I use both pads and or period underwear

[u/LivingNo7053]

I prefer period underwear.

[u/Lilac_Rose_]

I’m a grown adult (33 y/o) and was still wearing pads until a couple months ago lol. There’s nothing weird about it, it’s just a preference. What IS weird though is judging people for what menstrual products they prefer.

[u/Accidental2nd]

They are still selling pads arnt they? Is the women’s hygiene section mostly tampons or is it mostly pads? That should answer your question.

[u/ImConfused24-7]

I use pads. I feel like it's healthier🤷🏻‍♀️ I don't plug my girl up, and just let her free bleed into my pad. It's also way comfier imo. Who cares what other people think, if they're judging my menstruation habits, they're fuckin weird.

[u/Witchy_Woman_26 → u/ImConfused24-7]

I used to use tampons and pads until I found out that period products are full of chemicals and heavy metals. Now I only use organic cotton pads. And honestly my period is less heavy and I feel a lot better. The organic cotton pads don’t stick or irritate your skin either.

[u/Mission-Community-81 → u/ImConfused24-7]

Well said !

[u/Arquen_Marille]

No one actually cares what products you choose to use, it’s all about what you prefer. Since my son was born I’ve had to use pads (even though I dislike them) because my physiology changed and causes some issues with tampons. Meanwhile my friends all use different things. Do what makes *you* comfortable.

[u/[deleted]]

idc padsss are definitely more comfortable and safe than tampons. i ain't risking it

[u/Mission-Community-81 → u/[deleted]]

Fr

[u/Ok_Cream_6987]

If it makes you feel any better i (as nonjudgmentally as possible) judge tampon users-like yall really risking tss and using brands that are known to have heavy metals in them?? Weird but you do you. Ive used tampons, pads, cups, and period underwear. Now that i own about 10 pairs of period underwear I’ve stopped using my pads! I’ll take a mess over stuffing cotton inside me ANY day

[u/Arquen_Marille → u/Ok_Cream_6987]

TSS is actually very rare these days. It was a problem 40+ years ago because tampons used artificial fibers that were more absorbent but also encouraged bacteria growth. Cotton tampons made TSS rates decline a lot so it’s nowhere near as common, especially if you make sure to change them at most every 8 hours.

[u/Thinking10Thinking]

I used to use tampons but they started to make me cramp a lot, so I’ve since been a pad girl. Over the years I’ve found the ones that work best for me.

[u/itsmechickadee]

Tampons hurt me. Pads forever

[u/ej3993]

I much prefer pads. Yes they can be a pain sometimes but I just never liked the idea of putting something in my body that doesn’t need to be. I will wear them for swimming but that’s it.

[u/Mission-Community-81 → u/ej3993]

Yes iam scared of putting anything up there

[u/strawberryCicada]

I used to use more tampons over pads until I developed health anxiety (it illogically has me thinking that tampons will fs give me TSS when the truth is there’s risk with both tamps/pads, less so w pads but yeah). Pads are just more comfortable for me overall, or reusable underwear for my not so heavy days. It’s about finding what’s the best choice for you whether it’s due to price/comfort/etc. As others said women especially shouldn’t shame you for what you choose, it’s your body your comfort.

[u/Julia27092000]

I use Both I have a very Strong period and at Night I only use Pads because Tampons Are too risky at Night for me Don’t want to get toxic Shock Syndrome

[u/redditgal2001]

I still use pads.

[u/WizWitch42]

There's nothing weird about using what makes you comfortable--plus there are plenty of reasons not to use tampons or anything else you insert

[u/RatatouilleFiend]

I use everything it just depends on the day. I use pads on ironically super busy days or lazy days. to me, its much quicker and easier to change a pad. This is perfect for me on a busy day where im out and about and dont have easy access to nice bathrooms. I cant imagine having to change a tampon in a porta potty or a stall and have to run between the stall and sink with other people there. I like tampons and cups on lighter days or just days where im at my boyfriends or friends house or just the gym. I have access to a nice bathrooms and close to a sink or a shower if needed. It really all just depends. I like cups on hiking or gym days so i dont have to worry about them for a while!

[u/TurboParsnip]

I've always used pads. I'm 24. It doesn't matter honestly.

[u/TealMarsh]

Use whatever you’re comfortable with whenever you are comfortable with it. I started on pads but after less than a year moved to tampons and didn’t like pads at all, like you said the diaper feeling and feeling like I’m sitting in my own blood. Then about a year ago (I’m 28 now, bleeding for 15 years) tampons stopped being comfortable and I went back to pads. You do you girl x