Large pads for women. Types of pads - the whole variety of women's products

As part of a comprehensive study by Roskachestvo, 31 samples of the most popular women's sanitary pads for menstruation Normal on the Russian market were studied according to 41 quality and safety parameters. The cost of production ranged from 21 to 418 rubles per unit of goods. The study included both Russian-made gaskets (15 samples) and products imported from Belgium, Bulgaria, Hungary, Italy, China, South Korea, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Sweden. According to the results of laboratory tests, gaskets of only six brands confirmed their high quality, as they met not only the requirements of current quality and safety standards, but also the requirements of the leading standard of Roskachestvo. The decision to assign high-quality goods under the trademarks “Natalie”, “EKOnomochka Deo”, Bella, BIBI and Ola! Experts will accept the Russian Quality Mark after conducting a production assessment, during which the level of product localization will also be determined. The Hummings Delight product (made in South Korea), which meets the increased standard of Roskachestvo, cannot qualify for the Russian Quality Mark due to its foreign origin. There were more products with deficiencies - they accounted for two-thirds of the studied women's sanitary pads (21 samples).

STANDARD OF THE RUSSIAN QUALITY SYSTEM

The standard of the Russian quality system for women's sanitary pads for critical days Normal, applying for the Russian Quality Mark, has established stricter (advanced) requirements for deviations in absorption capacity and reverse sorption (that is, the ability to absorb moisture and retain moisture inside). Also, feminine sanitary pads should not be a favorable environment for the development of harmful microorganisms, such as staphylococci or E. coli, so the bacteriostatic properties of the pads were assessed. The required level of product localization for the assignment of the Russian Quality Mark is at least 50% of the cost of the product.

A gasket is a very complex product, an entire system consisting of several layers. And in order to understand how it works, you need to generally understand its structure. Infographics will help.

Perhaps the most important functions of pads are to absorb as much moisture as possible and retain it, while they should not cause allergies or irritation, or provoke any diseases. All this was checked by Roskachestvo - the study will help women make a more informed choice.

About the ability of feminine pads to absorb and retain

Probably, many TV viewers remember the experience that is often demonstrated in advertisements for feminine pads. Liquid is poured onto the two gaskets evenly over the entire length. Some time passes, and the top layer of pads is applied paper napkin. The result is that after contact with one pad, the napkin remains completely dry, and after contact with the other, it remains damp, with wet spots. It turns out that this experience talks about two important indicators of the quality of pads, namely their ability to absorb and retain moisture: absorption capacity (that is, complete moisture absorption - the maximum volume of absorbed liquid) and reverse sorption (that is, the reverse release of liquid under mechanical action - pressing).

“Complete moisture absorption, or, according to the international standard, absorption capacity, is an indicator that tells how much liquid a gasket can absorb in a certain time,” explains the head of the standardization sector of the Federal budgetary institution"State Regional Center for Standardization, Metrology and Testing in St. Petersburg and the Leningrad Region" Zinaida Ostasheva. – According to the GOST method for this test, a sample is cut out, weighed, and placed in liquid for a certain time. Then they take it out and evaluate the specific moisture absorption, that is, how much moisture 1 gram of the pad absorbs, and multiply it by the mass of the entire pad. However, it is more correct to carry out this test using the international method: immerse the entire gasket in the solution and evaluate how much liquid it can absorb.

It is based on the absorption capacity indicator that the pads are classified according to the degree of absorbency. Perhaps, for the consumer this is one of the most important indicators of quality. Therefore, Roskachestvo has tightened the requirements for the parameter, increasing the amount of absorbed moisture from 55 grams, regulated by GOST, to 70. This norm corresponds to the usual volume of daily secretions of a healthy woman, but it should be remembered that each woman’s body is individual. It should be noted that the products on the market showed high results in this indicator: all samples absorb moisture in larger quantities than provided for by the current GOST; only six samples did not meet the increased requirements of Roskachestvo. Thus, six samples whose absorbency was below 70 grams are deprived of the opportunity to qualify for the Russian Quality Mark.

The situation is similar with the reverse sorption indicator.

“Reverse sorption is the amount of liquid released from a product under the influence of external load or pressure,” says Zinaida Ostasheva. – In other words, when a woman sits down during her menstrual period, there should not be a return release of what the pad had previously absorbed. Initially, this indicator only applied to diapers. However, it is very important and necessary for gaskets; it says a lot about the quality of the products that the manufacturer produces.

This indicator is not regulated by current standards, but Roskachestvo has established requirements for it: more than 10% of the total volume of absorbed liquid should not be released back. The ability to retain moisture was not very good in seven samples. Details are in the product cards.

Of course, it is important not only how much secretions a pad can absorb and hold, but also how quickly it absorbs them. In this case, speed is the key to success. However, according to the test results, four samples coped with the task very slowly: one of them set a kind of “anti-record” - it absorbed the substance for 16.5 seconds!

About pH levels and alkaline environment

Above we discussed the ability of the gasket to absorb moisture. Curious, how does this process happen? It turns out that the absorbent layer of the pad, which consists of either cellulose and other plant fibers or chemical fibers, is responsible for this. Also, the absorbent layer may contain superabsorbents that increase the pad’s ability to absorb moisture. But the use of superabsorbent can affect the pH level and create an alkaline environment on the product.

“Superabsorbent is a chemical substance consisting of granules that is used to increase the absorbency and retention capacity of pads,” explains Zinaida Ostasheva. – Previously, cellulose and cotton wool were used to produce pads. Nowadays, gaskets are made thinner, so there is a tendency to use only superabsorbent, despite the fact that it is expensive and is not produced in Russia. However, superabsorbent increases the pH level, and increased pH produces an alkaline environment and can affect microbiology - microbes grow well in an alkaline environment. Natural pH tends to be more acidic.

“A certain pH level allows you to maintain your own microflora in a woman’s body,” says the chief physician of the Novoklinik Center for Aesthetic Medicine and Cosmetology, an obstetrician-gynecologist. Yulia Andreeva. – When the pH level changes, the acidity of the microflora changes, and bacteria have the opportunity to reproduce. Simply put, those bacteria that “lived in friendship” will begin to get out of control. This can cause various female diseases.

However, this increase depends not only on the superabsorbent.

“Technologically, the process can be set up so that it does not change the environment,” continues Zinaida Ostasheva. “But manufacturers also use, for example, glue in the manufacture of gaskets: it binds the inner layers together. That is, not everything depends solely on the superabsorbent. Another option is if the absorbent layer consists of cellulose. To cook pulp, you need to cook wood. Cooking can be acidic, alkaline or combined. Wood cooking is a complex chemical process that depends on many factors, including the type of wood. After cooking, the pulp is washed and bleached, that is, it is refined. And the quality of the pulp depends on how these processes are carried out by the pulp manufacturer. Less high-quality cellulose is made from waste paper. In turn, the pH level will also depend on what kind of cellulose the pad manufacturer uses.

The Uniform Sanitary, Epidemiological and Hygienic Requirements, approved by the decision of the Customs Union, as well as GOST, establish maximum permissible limits for changes in the pH of pads to the pH level of distilled water. It’s curious, but despite its strictness, GOST this time turned out to be softer: it allows higher pH values. Of course, the strict requirements bore fruit: the study identified 17 brands whose products had exceeded pH levels. More details about them can be found in the product cards.

Information about these violations was transferred to state control and supervisory authorities.

Thus, a paradox arises: a large amount of superabsorbent improves the quality of the pads and their absorbency, but they become unsafe. However, it should be noted that high-quality sanitary pads under the Natalie and Hummings Delight trademarks and high-quality and safe products under the Milana, Always and Clever trademarks contained superabsorbent.

Read about how to choose a feminine hygiene product that's right for you.

About the sterility of feminine pads

Sanitary pads are made in a sterile production facility where workers wear white coats and gloves. However, whiteness and purity are not always synonymous.

During the Roskachestvo study, six safety violations regulated by the Unified Sanitary, Epidemiological and Hygienic Requirements were discovered. Enterobacteriaceae were found in a sample under the La Fresh brand, Staphylococcus aureus was found in a product under the Normal Clinic brand, and mold fungi were found in women's sanitary pads under the YA-NANYA, Libresse, Naturella, and Ria brands. Information about these violations was transferred to the control and supervisory authorities.

“The products themselves on which these microorganisms were found are nonsterile,” they told Roskachestvo in All-Russian Research Institute of Railway Hygiene of Rospotrebnadzor. – Microorganisms could have been introduced at various stages of production, during packaging of pads, and their storage; The original raw materials may be non-sterile. The human factor cannot be excluded, because the production line is not fully automated: a person could take a sample with his hands, remove the mask and sneeze during packaging. Basically, these violations are relevant for cellulose: this raw material may have some flaws. But this does not mean that microorganisms will be found in every hygiene product.

“Of course, the fact that molds, enterobacteria and Staphylococcus aureus were found on the gaskets is not very good,” says Yulia Andreeva. – When worn on these pads, bacteria will begin to develop and be cultivated in a very short time, because blood is a good breeding ground for microorganisms. During critical days, these infections can very easily get into a woman’s internal genital organs. And the growth of microorganisms can primarily provoke local inflammation: a considerable number of women complain of both allergic dermatitis and changes in the nature of the discharge. And of course, the more “aggressive” the microbes are, the more serious inflammation they will cause. Among those discovered, the most “aggressive” is Staphylococcus aureus.

To check whether pads (dry and coated with a biological substrate - sterile defibrinated blood, which in its characteristics are similar to secretions) are capable of female body during critical days) microorganisms multiply and survive, Roskachestvo introduced additional indicators into the study.

“These indicators do not relate to safety standards; they are needed to confirm the maximum safe time for using a hygiene product during critical days,” explained the VNIIZhG Rospotrebnadzor. – Regulatory criteria state that this time should not exceed three hours. When a woman suffers from urogenital infections or inflammatory processes during her menstrual period, the time that will protect her from the growth of bacteria on a hygiene product is no more than four hours. The survival conditions and the period of reproduction on the studied hygiene products were compared using the classical method in relation to the survival and reproduction of test microorganisms (Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli) on cambric and calico samples - both without contamination and with contamination by the substrate (defibrinated blood). These samples are defined as environmentally safe for the body, and therefore the increased ability of microorganisms to survive and reproduce on the surface of the studied hygiene products can be regarded as a negative criterion when assessing their quality.

In fact, none of the tested samples exceeded the performance of the control sample. Thus, it follows that the surface of the gaskets under study does not promote the proliferation of pathogenic and potentially pathogenic microorganisms. However, the test confirmed that if there is a threat of penetration of a pathogenic microorganism that can cause disease, then it is not recommended to wear the product for more than four hours: after the specified time, harmful microorganisms may begin to multiply on the surface of the contaminated hygiene product.

About the ability of feminine pads to “breathe”

Advertising posters and videos often talk about the unique ability of pads to “breathe”. Without applying a word that most often refers to living organisms to hygiene products, we can say that “breathable” pads are pads that are breathable (like, for example, a T-shirt that allows air to pass through so that a person does not sweat).

Roskachestvo decided to find out what it was: a marketing ploy or a fact. Therefore, the air permeability indicator was introduced into the study for reference. The test results gave a clear answer: all tested gasket samples have a zero level of air permeability, that is, they do not allow air to pass through at all. Experts noted that this is not at all surprising.

“Air permeability is an indicator that shows how a given material allows air to pass through,” explains Zinaida Ostasheva.

The study revealed that the air permeability of all samples was zero. It couldn’t be otherwise: the bottom layer of the pad, which comes into contact with the laundry, is a film made of polymer materials. It is he who does not allow air to pass through. Unfortunately, all the tested gaskets cannot “breathe”.

About allergies and irritations

On women's forums you can often find conversations about allergies and irritations caused in the fair sex by perfumes, household chemicals, etc. The topic of the negative effects that sanitary pads can have on women's skin is no exception.

– Allergies can be caused by the same fragrances that are added to the inner layer of pads to destroy unpleasant odor, the components themselves that make up this gasket, explains Yulia Andreeva. – Recycled cellulose, traces of some dyes present in colored pads, synthetic materials that are made, for example, from petroleum - all this can lead to dermatitis. In a word, the range of components included in sanitary pads that can cause allergies is very large.

To find out whether this problem is really so widespread, the laboratories of Roskachestvo tested feminine pads for their ability to cause local irritation on the skin and mucous membrane, as well as allergies (sensitizing ability). However, in the samples studied, not a single violation was identified according to these indicators.

By the way, we have already encountered testing samples for the ability to cause allergies when studying baby soap and antimicrobial construction paints.

Another substance that has a negative effect on the human body is formaldehyde. Sometimes it can also be found in feminine pads: this toxic substance is contained in technical glue, which is applied to the fixing layer of the pad so that it is attached to the underwear.

“Formaldehyde is a toxic product that in high concentrations has a toxic effect on the entire body systemically,” says Yulia Andreeva. – In minimal concentrations, it has a local effect precisely on the area with which contact occurs.

Good news:

When examining the pads, no traces of formaldehyde were found in quantities hazardous to health.

About product labeling

Often, when buying sanitary pads, women pay attention only to the number of droplets depicted on the front side and marking their absorbency. However, as with most things, packaging can tell the consumer more.

“Our basic GOST divides gaskets into classes: 1st and 2nd, respectively,” explains Zinaida Ostasheva. – They both include medium to highly absorbent pads. The division into classes itself depends on the complete moisture absorption and absorption time. 1st class pads have a higher degree of absorbency and are better, although, of course, more expensive. This is reminiscent of grade in food products: there are products of the 1st grade, and there are 2nd ones.

If feminine pads are manufactured according to GOST R 52483-2005, their labeling must contain a large amount of mandatory information:

• name, type, class, absorbency of the gasket (as well as graphic symbols to designate it), trademark (if available);
• country of manufacture, as well as the name of the manufacturer, indicating its legal address and trademark (if any);
• distinctive characteristics of gaskets in accordance with their technical design and information on the presence of special ingredients;
• if available - article number;
• number of gaskets in the package;
• date of manufacture and warranty expiration date;
• identification of this standard, gasket barcode (if available), and certification information;
• Finally, a valuable disposal tip: “Do not dispose of it in the sewer.”

Despite the formality, labeling standards turn out to be very strict: non-compliance of the labeling of government goods with these standards automatically classifies the manufacturers of such goods as violators. Roskachestvo's research found two such samples, manufactured in accordance with GOST. These are women's sanitary pads under the trademarks "Lan Secrets" (there was no marking on the degree of absorbency and the class of the pads) and Cherry Dry (there was no marking on the degree of absorbency and an indication of what days the sanitary product was intended for).

Why are feminine pads needed? It seems that the answer to this question is simple and quite unambiguous. They are needed for protection during critical days, when the body is more vulnerable and sensitive to manifestations of the external environment. They were originally created to perform this function.

But scientific advances are moving forward, and to meet the needs of all customers, various types gaskets that can be suitable for any purpose. Today there are several types of them, these include products for daily hygiene; urological, medicinal, and also those that are used after childbirth have been developed. It is worth considering several types of these products to understand which pads are best to use during menstruation. Every woman has faced the problem that for one reason or another, wearing a pad from a certain company brings her discomfort, or, more simply put, is not suitable.

Period pads

What pads are best to use during menstruation? Maintaining hygiene during these few days is very important. Since sensitivity increases, and with the wrong hygiene product, you can even get an infection. Therefore, manufacturers pay the greatest attention to this type of gaskets. Gaskets are in greatest demand, since their main quality is versatility. Every woman used them more than once. Each type of product has its own characteristics and properties.

Gasket sizes

All gaskets are different sizes. It all depends on the volume of discharge that occurs on menstrual days. There are scanty, moderate and abundant. Small-sized products will be needed if the discharge is moderate. If the discharge is more abundant, then you need to choose larger pads, and night pads are selected separately.

Construction of gaskets and their features

Design different types products can also be different. Some have special grooves, due to which the blood does not spread, others have wide wings, which also protect against leaks and prevent staining of linen and clothes. Some species are designed in such a way that they do not have wings. But what kind of pads are better to use during menstruation, if not those that protect better and with which a woman will feel more confident?! The choice of pads should be approached in accordance with her individual preferences and body characteristics.

Materials from which these hygiene products are made

The materials from which gaskets are made can also vary. Some may have a cotton component inside. But such products are less and less in demand among women, since they are not always reliable. Others have a special sorbent that perfectly retains moisture and turns it into a gel.

Differences may be in the top layer. Typically this is either a synthetic porous material or fluff pulp. Like any material, each layer has its pros and cons. In the first case, the discharge is quickly absorbed without leaking, but after using such pads, irritation may occur. In the second case, they are not so practical, but they are advised to be used by women who have increased sensitivity of the genital mucosa.

What type of fragrance do sanitary pads have?

During menstruation, the discharge is not completely odorless. Therefore, pads have been developed that can be used to neutralize and disguise it. They usually have a floral or herbal scent. For some women, these hygiene products are more preferable.

Types of gaskets and their descriptions

Pads are produced with varying degrees of absorbency. This is the main criterion for choosing this hygiene product. It is this feature that plays a key role when purchasing gaskets. Gaskets come in the following varieties:

• Should be used by women who have scanty discharge. The packaging usually says Light and has a design of five droplets, three of which are painted over.
• For moderate discharge, Normal pads with four colored droplets are suitable.
• If there is heavy bleeding, it is better to use Super and Super Plus, as they absorb well and protect well from leaks. The treasured five drops are depicted on the packaging.
• Since there can also be discharge at night, special pads were created for this time of day. They absorb well and are slightly larger in size than daytime ones. Usually called Night.

Popular sanitary pads for women and girls

The most popular and high-quality menstrual hygiene products, according to women, today are:

• Always;
• Libresse;
• Naturella;
• Kotex;
• Helen Harper;
• Bella;
• "Natalie";

Girls' first periods and pads

What pads are best to use during menstruation for girls 12 years old? More on this later.

With the first menstruation, girls begin a new stage in life. The body matures, the body begins to take on the proportions of a woman. At such a sensitive moment, someone should educate the girl about how important it is to maintain intimate hygiene and choose the right products for this. In this at a young age Hygiene products must be chosen very carefully. What pads are best to use during menstruation for 10 year old girls? Anatomical characteristics and individual characteristics body - these are the two main parameters by which you need to select gaskets.

A very large selection of products for use during menstrual periods will make even an adult woman confused, what is it like for girls? Which pads are best for teenagers to use during their periods if they don’t yet understand the differences between them? Here it is important to properly advise the child. This shouldn't be too difficult.

Which pads to choose for a girl?

What pads are best to use during menstruation for teenagers 12 years old? The entire use of the pad consists of simply gluing it onto the underwear, but the choice consists of several points:

• The selected products must be of high quality. When using pads made from cheap and low-quality materials, allergies and skin irritation may occur. While it is unknown about the reactions that may occur on the skin, it is better to avoid pads made from unknown materials. It is better to start with hygiene products with a hypoallergenic surface.
• Teenagers weigh less than adult women, so to begin with, pads for heavy bleeding will be unnecessary. Everything here is purely individual: the volume of discharge and the girl’s weight. In this case, you need to tell what the differences are between these means. Explain the difference between sizes and number of droplets. And next time you don’t have to worry about what the girl will choose.
• Purchasing several packages at once. Let them be different brands and sizes. A teenager who is menstruating for the first time needs to know that the amount of discharge depends on the day of her period. Therefore, in case the gaskets from one package do not fit, you can use others.

You need to be careful when visiting school on such days. Since staying in one place for a long time can lead to heavy discharge and it can leak onto your clothes. What pads can be used during menstruation? For long periods of sitting motionless in one place, large pads are suitable.

Some types of pads, due to their cotton component, seem thick; if this causes concern that they will be visible under clothing, then thin hygiene products can be used. These are usually packages labeled Ultra.

Pads for girls aged eleven. Their distinctive features

Typically, manufacturers do not produce separate products for women and girls. Only two companies are exceptions in this regard. These are Kotex and Bella. Due to their convenience and bright design, Kotex Young Normal Deo and Bella For Teen pads are in great demand. What pads are best to use during menstruation for 11 year old girls? This question should be asked by every mother who is concerned about the health and comfort of her daughter.

They should have the following distinctive features:

• so that the liquid is absorbed better and faster, they must have a special mesh coating;
• there should be an absorbent area in the center of the gasket, which will provide protection against leaks;
• neutralization of odors with the scent of aloe;
• should not cause discomfort, therefore products for girls were designed in such a way that they are narrower compared to hygiene products for women;
• they are invisible under clothes due to their small thickness;
• minimizes irritation due to cotton covering.

Kotex hygiene products for teenagers fully meet these requirements. Therefore, when wondering which pads are best to use during menstruation for girls 12 years old, pay attention to the products of the Kotex company. There is only one drawback to this product. This is a high cost compared to other types of the same products. What pads are best to use during menstruation for girls 14 years old? Kotex products are also suitable. The pads are completely suitable for the girls' build. Therefore, despite the price, they are popular.

Hygiene rules for a girl who is menstruating

It’s not enough to choose the right pads; on critical days you also need to follow certain rules hygiene. During such a period, the female body needs special attention. Basic recommendations that a girl should follow when her period begins:

• Twice a day water procedures. Since the genitals quickly become dirty during menstruation, germs multiply many times faster. To avoid inflammation or infections, you need to carefully monitor your intimate hygiene. What pads are best to use for 14 year old girls if there is no way to take a shower? In this case, hygiene products do not affect this. You can use wet wipes instead of a shower.
• On such days, it is better to choose a soft cleanser with a special composition that will reduce possible irritation. It is recommended to use the gel for intimate hygiene, it kills all harmful bacteria and leaves you feeling clean for longer. What pads are best to use during menstruation for 16 year old girls in this case? You can also use ordinary hygiene products, which are always used. If cleansing occurs with soap, then it is better to choose hypoallergenic pads, since soap itself can cause irritation, and other menstrual products will only provoke it more.
• Gaskets are usually changed at least every 6 hours. Sometimes this needs to be done more often.
• What pads are best to use for girls 12 years old if they experience excessive sweating in the genital area during menstruation? They can be used as usual, you just need additional talc or baby powder.
• It is advisable to wear underwear made from cotton fabrics, since synthetics do not allow air to pass through well and make it difficult for the skin to breathe. And during the start menstrual cycle this is especially important.

Every girl should know these rules as soon as she has her first menstruation.

A little conclusion

Now you know which pads are best to use during the first menstruation so that the girl does not feel excessive discomfort during this period. On such days, the girl becomes more sensitive to the world around her, and she will obviously not be happy with unnecessary inconveniences. Therefore, you should carefully select gaskets for it.

One of the most important inventions of the last century can be safely called sanitary pads, which made the lives of all women in the world much easier. However, with today's variety of brands, choosing the best option for “these very” days is not so easy. What gaskets can you safely give preference to, and who has become the leader, according to experts?

9th place. Naturella Camomile Ultra

Naturella Camomile Ultra pads are a budget option suitable for women of any age. As the results of tests and experiments show, they do not have a high absorption rate and are able to absorb less than 10 milliliters of liquid, so they are more suitable for protection against light discharge. The soft surface, reminiscent of delicate cotton, adheres well to intimate areas and does not cause irritation.

Advantages:

• low price;
• pleasant fit to the body;
• good moisture transfer indicators;
• do not cause discomfort.

Flaws:

• specific flavor;
• slow absorption;
• poor moisture absorption rates.

8th place. Fine Life Ultra Normal

Fine Life sanitary pads also fall into the ultra-thin category. This is a real salvation for women during critical days, which will be almost imperceptible. The SEP protective system protects against leaks, and the velvety Extra Soft non-woven material will gently adhere to the body. They have fairly good indicators of the wetness of the upper absorbent layer and absorption time, however, the actual indicators of complete moisture absorption do not correspond to the declared ones.

Advantages:

• rapid moisture absorption;
• ultra-thinness of products;
• guaranteed protection against leaks;
• comfortable fit.

Flaws:

• incomplete moisture absorption (not suitable for heavy discharge).

7th place. Bella Perfecta Blue Ultra

Bella Perfecta Blue Ultra, with its minimal thickness, quickly absorbs moisture, which makes it ideal option for women who prefer tight-fitting clothes. The surface is made of Extra Soft non-woven material, which has “breathable” properties. The absence of latex in the composition of the product guarantees a comfortable fit to the skin without the risk of irritation. Their only drawback is their strong moisture transfer: despite the fact that Bella Perfecta instantly absorbs secretions, the inner layer does not retain them well under external influence (for example, when pressed).

Advantages:

• low price;
• fast absorption;
• ultra-thinness of products;
• protecting the skin from irritation;
• do not cause discomfort;
• neutralize bad smell.

Flaws:

• poor moisture retention when exposed to external factors.

6th place. Always Ultra Normal Plus

Always Ultra Normal Plus are sanitary pads popular among women, which suit the fairer sex for one simple reason - the optimal price-quality ratio. They absorb even heavy discharge well, and thanks to their excellent moisture transfer, they guarantee a minimal risk of stains on clothes. The 3D texture of the pads provides protection against leaks, but not everyone likes the proprietary mesh top layer: with prolonged use, it begins to stick to the skin and cause discomfort.

Advantages:

• absorb moisture quickly enough and retain it;
• have good wetness properties;
• ultra-thinness of products;
• affordable price.

Flaws:

• discomfort is likely when worn for a long time (mesh sticking).

5th place. Lidie Ultra Normal

Lidie Ultra Normal pads have a soft mesh surface and are superabsorbent, which guarantees protection against leaks on critical days. Ultra-thin products are not felt when worn, do not rub or cause any discomfort.

Advantages:

• ultra-thinness;
• soft surface pleasant to the touch;
• good moisture absorption properties.

Flaws:

• not identified.

4th place. Ola! Ultra Normal

Ola! Ultra Normal is distinguished by fairly good absorbency and retention capacity, as well as an affordable price, which puts the pads of the Russian manufacturer on a par with the most popular models among women. They have a soft surface that gently adheres to the skin, easily adheres to linen and meets all safety standards.

Advantages:

• guaranteed protection against leakage;
• comfort of use.

Flaws:

• not identified.

3rd place. Genial Day

Genial Day eco-pads are a little-known product in our country, but abroad they are perhaps the most popular brand of premium sanitary pads. Their main feature is the presence of so-called anion strips, which protect the female body from bacteria and unpleasant odors. It is impossible not to note the absorbent abilities of Genial Day: as studies show, they are ideal for heavy discharge, as they easily absorb and retain many times more than many other pads.

Advantages:

• perfectly absorb liquid;
• have a high level of moisture retention;
• protect even hypersensitive skin from irritation;
• provide good air permeability;
• made from natural eco-friendly materials.

Flaws:

• not identified.

2nd place. Kotex Ultra Normal

Kotex Ultra Normal literally instantly absorbs liquid and retains it well even under external influences. They have an anatomical shape that guarantees them comfortable use during active movements. The declared volume of absorbed liquid corresponds to the actual volume. The soft mesh of the top layer does not stick, but adheres well to the skin.

• excellent absorption and retention of liquid;
• impeccable moisture transfer indicators;
• soft top layer;
• mask unpleasant odor;
• have an anatomical shape;
• suitable for long-term wearing(more than 3 hours).

Flaws:

• not identified.

1st place. Libresse Invisible Normal

Thin and comfortable to use, Libresse pads always delight with their absorbent properties, and laboratory tests have confirmed this fact. The volume of absorbed liquid not only corresponds to what is stated, but even exceeds the norm, which allows you to use Libresse Invisible Normal both with an average intensity of discharge and with more heavy menstruation. One of the Efficapt layers is responsible for the distribution of liquid over the entire surface, which guarantees zero risks of leakage and good moisture transfer performance.

Advantages:

• high absorbency;
• guaranteed fluid retention;
• perfect fit to the body;
• freedom of movement when using;
• natural composition.

Flaws:

• not identified.

All the brands reviewed are well known to most women, but each of them has its own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages. When choosing gaskets, you should pay attention to models that not only perform their direct function, accumulate moisture and retain it well, but also prevent the development of a pathogenic environment. This will ensure that the use of hygiene products is not just comfortable, but also safe for the female body.

Choose only the best for yourself and be healthy!

Why do we need feminine pads? The answer to this question is not as clear-cut as it might seem at first glance. The first thing that comes to mind is protection during critical days. Initially, this device was created precisely to perform this function. But progress does not stand still, so modern manufacturers of hygiene products strive to fully satisfy the needs of their customers. This trend has led to the emergence of such types of products as napkins for daily protection, as well as urological, medicinal, etc. Let's look at the main types of feminine pads, as well as the best options for each type of these products. After all, any woman should be confident in the reliability of her protection and be able to say: “I use the best products!”

Women's pads for absorbing menstrual flow

It is hygiene that the largest manufacturing companies pay maximum attention to during these few days of the female cycle. Pads are the most universal and popular type of protection during menstruation, which every woman has used more than once. There are many options for such products, they all differ in characteristics and properties. , read the link.

How are the products different?

Secondly, they may differ in their design. So, some products have special grooves that prevent blood from spreading, others are equipped with wider wings that protect linen and clothes from contamination. There are gaskets without wings at all. However, products with wings are still better, since their protection is more reliable. The choice of one option or another depends on the individual preferences and characteristics of the woman’s body.

Thirdly, hygiene products may also differ in the materials used for their production. So inside it is possible to use a cotton component (such products are being produced less and less because they are less reliable) or a special sorbent that perfectly retains moisture and turns it into a gel-like substance. The top layer may also be different. It is usually made from synthetic porous material or dissolved cellulose. Each of these coatings has its own advantages and disadvantages. The first provides faster and better absorption, but often becomes the culprit of irritation. The second option is slightly less functional, but less likely to irritate the genital mucosa.

Fourthly, there are also hygiene products containing special fragrances that help neutralize and mask a specific odor. They may have a floral or herbal scent. Some women prefer just these options.

The most basic criterion of difference is the degree of absorption. The main gradation of protective equipment on menstrual days is carried out on this basis. So there are the following types of gaskets:

• Light. They are intended for minor discharge;
• Normal – option used for moderate menstruation;
• Super and Super Plus are products with increased absorbency. They provide an optimal level of protection on days when your periods are quite intense;
• Night – special products designed for protection during night sleep. They not only have a high degree of absorbency, but are also large in size.

Popular brands of sanitary napkins for menstruation

Based on the opinions of the majority of women, we can highlight brands of hygiene products that have earned the best reputation:

• Kotex;
• Helen Harper;
• Bella;
• Natalie;

Postpartum pads

This type of product is designed specifically to absorb abundant bloody discharge, which are typical for women in the postpartum period. An increasing number of expectant mothers are choosing this type of protection when packing their bags for the maternity hospital. This type of product is distinguished by its ability to absorb large volumes, as well as the sterility of the product.

The materials from which they are made are breathable, which prevents the so-called “greenhouse effect”, which causes irritation and inflammation. In addition, these are usually hypoallergenic pads.

Often, such remedies are used by women who, for some reason, have excessively heavy menstrual bleeding.

Popular brands of postpartum hygiene products

The range of hygiene products designed for absorption is quite large. Therefore, you can always choose those options that suit your personal characteristics. Some brands are focused on the production of specialized hygiene products. So the most popular brands in this segment are:

• Tena;
• MoliMed;
• Hartmann Samu Steril;

Buying them today is not difficult. Just go to the nearest pharmacy, supermarket or look through the catalog of a virtual store.

Urological pads

Another type of specialized hygiene products used both for various degrees of urinary incontinence and during the postpartum period, as well as for heavy menstruation. Such pads have excellent absorbency, which provides reliable protection against any secretions. They perfectly block unpleasant odors, which is extremely important in some situations.

Most often, hypoallergenic materials are used in the manufacture of such products. In addition, these hygiene products are often equipped with additional protective structures: wider wings, special sides.

Famous brands of urological products

Which urological pads are best to choose? The best possible ones are:

These brands offer quality products in a wide range, which includes options for absorbing different amounts of discharge. Many women like it for their periods (on those days when the discharge is especially intense).

Medical hygiene products

Anionic

Today they are produced by many manufacturers. The essence of this type of protection during critical days is that there is an anion chip inside it that releases anion molecules. These substances help neutralize unpleasant odors, inhibit the growth of pathogenic microflora and maintain the natural pH level. Such drugs are credited with the ability to prevent and treat gynecological diseases. On the Russian market you can find anionic sanitary pads of the following brands:

• Love Moon;
• Faberlic;
• Honey Moon “Ozone&Anion”.

Herbal pads

Herbal pads for women are a new trend in the hygiene industry. The use of such products involves not only protection during menstruation, but also the provision of a certain therapeutic effect on the reproductive organs.

Gynecologists have different opinions regarding the use of such products. Some people really think they are the best option protection during menstruation, others cite the lack of any serious research into their effectiveness and safety.

Among the customers there are also both ardent fans and outright opponents of such products. But, one way or another, such products are present on the market of hygiene products for women.

Chinese manufacturers are leading in this segment. The easiest way to order Chinese medicinal pads is through an online store or through a product catalog, which can be found from representatives of network companies. What gaskets are best to use? The most popular products are the following brands:

• Mei Tan;
• Ji Mei Shu;
• Tiande;
• Secrets of Lan.

Daily sanitary napkins

Women began to use such pads relatively recently. Why are they needed? Some representatives of the fair half wear them every day, thereby protecting their underwear from natural physiological secretions. Others use it only in the days waiting for menstruation and in the period after it, when. Women's pads are indispensable for daily protection and on the days of ovulation, when leucorrhoea becomes more profuse.

What are daily diaries? These products are thinner than regular menstrual pads. They are smaller in size and often lack wings. Sometimes their shape differs from the usual one; for example, it may be identical to the shape of underwear.

Popular brands

Which panty liners are best to choose? As in any other case, customer recommendations can be the best guide. If we talk about popularity, the leaders in the ranking of such products are the following brands:

• Libresse;
• Natalie.

Specialists purchased feminine sanitary pads produced in Russia (15 samples), as well as imported from Belgium, Bulgaria, Hungary, Italy, China, South Korea, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Sweden.

High-quality gasket: what is it?

For this category of goods, the standard of the Russian quality system has established increased (advanced) requirements compared to the standards established by GOST R 52483−2005. Thus, in particular, the parameters for the level of moisture absorption and its reverse release (sorption) were tightened. For women, this indicator of the quality of pads is one of the most important - after all, good absorbency guarantees comfort, lack of irritation on the skin and cleanliness of clothes.

To see how your gasket should work, watch this video:

About absorption

The absorbent layer is responsible for absorbency - it can consist of cellulose or chemical fibers. It may also contain superabsorbents - these are expensive components that are not produced in Russia, which increase the gasket’s ability to absorb moisture.

Such pads “work” better than others, but at the same time, the superabsorbent can affect the pH level, creating an alkaline environment on the surface - such conditions are favorable for the development of microbes.

According to the chief physician of the Center for Aesthetic Medicine and Cosmetology “Novoklinik”, obstetrician-gynecologist Yulia Andreeva, when the pH level changes, the acidity of the microflora changes, and bacteria have the opportunity to reproduce. Simply put, those bacteria that “lived in friendship” can get out of control. This causes the development of many female diseases.

About sterility

An important indicator of the safety of pads is their sterility. Feminine hygiene products are manufactured in extremely clean conditions - factory workers are required to wear white coats and gloves.

This is in theory. In practice, things are a little different. On some samples, experts found harmful microorganisms that could have been introduced at various stages of production, during the packaging of the pads or during their storage. The original raw materials could also be unsterile.

During menstrual periods, infectious agents can easily enter a woman’s internal genital organs and cause inflammation. The more “aggressive” the microbes are, the more serious damage they will cause. Among the pathogens discovered during the study, the most “aggressive” was Staphylococcus aureus.

At the same time, additional tests carried out by Roskachestvo specialists showed that in none of the samples did the surface of the pads contribute to the proliferation of pathogenic and potentially pathogenic microorganisms - provided that during menstruation a woman does not use one pad for more than four hours.

About "breathing" properties

In commercials, manufacturers talk a lot about the ability of pads to “breathe”. The department's experts decided to check whether the samples have such remarkable properties, or whether this is just a marketing ploy forever.

The test results gave a clear answer: all tested gasket samples have a zero level of air permeability, that is, they do not allow air to pass through at all.

About allergies and irritations

According to Yulia Andreeva, allergies can be caused by fragrances that are used to impregnate the inner layer of pads to eliminate unpleasant odors, and by the components themselves that make up the pad.

Recycled cellulose, traces of some dyes present in colored pads, synthetic materials that are made, for example, from petroleum - all this can lead to dermatitis.

Roskachestvo specialists tested feminine pads for their ability to cause allergies and local irritation on the skin. No violations were identified for this indicator.

Experts obtained similar results when testing samples for the presence of formaldehyde - it can be contained in technical glue, which is used to coat the pad so that it is attached to the underwear. Fortunately, the samples examined did not contain traces of formaldehyde in quantities hazardous to health.

About labeling

If feminine pads are manufactured according to GOST R 52483−2005, their markings must contain a large amount of mandatory information:

• name, type, class, absorbency of the gasket (as well as graphic symbols to designate it (“drops”)), trademark (if available);
• country of manufacture, as well as the name of the manufacturer, indicating its legal address and trademark (if any);
• distinctive characteristics of gaskets in accordance with their technical design and information on the presence of special ingredients;
• if available - article number;
• number of gaskets in the package;
• date of manufacture and warranty expiration date;
• identification of this standard, gasket barcode (if available), and certification information;
• Finally, a valuable disposal tip: “Do not dispose of it in the sewer.”

Manufacturers rating

The undisputed leader of the study, which deserved to be awarded the Russian Quality Mark, was gaskets of the trademark OLA! Classic. They are completely safe, do not cause allergies or irritation, are able to absorb large amounts of moisture and retain it perfectly, provide additional protection against secretions getting on the laundry, do not create a favorable environment for the development of microorganisms and do not cause an increase in their numbers when the pad is used for more than 4 hours.

Another six samples were recognized as high quality goods. These are women's sanitary pads of the Normal category of brands:

Hummings Delight