The 6 Best Pads for Teens, According to OBGYNs

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The first few years of having your period are an absolute rollercoaster. You’re wading through the ups and downs of hormonal change (thanks puberty!), discovering all the joys of cramps and PMS (… thanks, puberty), and of course, learning what period products you prefer. Many teens and tweens opt for pads during those first few years: they’re simple, easy to use, and don’t involve as much of a learning curve as tampons or menstrual cups. (Although many companies are making it much easier to use those options now, too.) But the period aisle looks a little different now than it did when we were teens, and all those options can get confusing even to the most savvy of parents. So what exactly are the best pads for your teen or tween?

The big priorities are the same: we all need our pads to be reliable, comfortable, and leak-proof — no teen wants to live through the nightmare of finding a telltale stain on the back of their jeans in the middle of a school day. Nowadays, though, companies are creating options with even more teen-specific concerns in mind, taking into consideration things like pad size, packaging, and discreet wrappers. (No more loud crinkling in the school bathroom stall? Yes please.) They’re much-needed improvements, as teens and tweens may find traditional (aka adult-sized) pads “too large or bulky, which can be uncomfortable and lead to leaks,” Dr. Anna Cabeca, a triple board-certified OB/GYN and creator of Julva for vaginal dryness, tells SheKnows. Teens may also be more sensitive and self-conscious about using products that aren’t discreet or tailored to their age group, Dr. Cabeca added.

We asked three OBGYNs to share the best pads available for your teen or tween and rounded up all their recommendations below, along with tips for what to look for in a pad (size? shape? absorbency??) and some tips for helping your teen manage during this fraught — but exciting — time.

Navigating your teen’s periods

It might be awkward, but you can and should talk to your teen or tween about their cycle — maybe even before they start menstruating. “It is important to establish early on how ‘normal’ it is to have periods,” Dr. Cabeca explains, “and that it is part of the course of female biology.” There’s still a stigma around menstruation, especially among teens and tweens, which can lead to young people feeling like they have to navigate all the overwhelming symptoms and period product choices by themselves. Alleviate their stress by letting them know they can ask you about anything to do with their period.

OBGYNs are also a great resource to introduce your teen to, especially if they’re feeling overwhelmed or confused (and are maybe embarrassed to talk to you about it). Plus, some questions are just easier to talk about with a doctor. “I go over genital anatomy with my patients all the time,” Dr. Suzanne Bovone, board-certified OB/GYN at Pediatrix Medical Group in San Jose, California, tells SheKnows. “I’ll have them hold a mirror so they can see their body as we go over proper anatomical terms.” It’s all about normalizing periods and reproductive health. (PS: experts recommend taking your teen for their first OB/GYN visit right before or when they have their first period, which might happen earlier than you think.)

Once they’re familiar with exactly what’s going on down there, exploring different period products doesn’t feel quite so scary. “Teens can use pads, tampons, cups and discs from the first period. It’s about being aware of one’s anatomy,” Dr. Bovone says. Keeping the lines of communication open also lets them know that “it’s OK to ask for help when using any new product,” she adds.

You can also talk about how to manage PMS symptoms and proper period hygiene practices, Dr. Cabeca adds, “including changing pads regularly and maintaining cleanliness.”

What to look for in pads for teens

There are a few key characteristics to look for when you’re choosing the best pad for your teen or tween.

Make sure they’re part of the conversation. Your teen probably doesn’t love the idea of going shopping for pads with you, but invite them along anyway. Don’t force it — if they don’t want to come, ask them if they have any product preferences. If they don’t (not surprising — they’re new to this!), talk to them about what products you chose and why. Even if they’re resistant in these early conversations, you’re showing them that periods are normal and keeping the line of communication open.

Smaller sizes are better. The bigger the pad, the bulkier it will feel to your teen or tween. That’s why you want to “choose pads specifically designed for teens,” Dr. Cabeca says, “which offer smaller sizes that fit comfortably in teen underwear.”

Look for absorbency and protection. “It is important to buy the menstrual product that matches their flow – light, medium or  heavy,” says Dr. Bovone. “They will get the best protection this way.” You also want to look for pads that aren’t overly bulky, Dr. Cabeca adds, while prioritizing features like wings that “provide extra security against leaks.”

Go unscented. Fragrances smell nice, but they usually involve ingredients you don’t want anywhere near a vagina. Our experts recommended unscented pads that are free of fragrances or chemicals.

Choose comfortable materials. “Opt for pads made from soft, breathable materials like organic cotton, which are gentle on sensitive skin and free from irritants like dyes and fragrances,” says Dr. Cabeca. “I am a big fan of pads that are made of natural materials and lack chemicals and fragrances,” board-certified OB/GYN Dr. Somi Javaid, founder of HerMD, tells SheKnows.

Discreet packaging is a plus. No teen wants to reach for their phone only to have their super-obvious pad fly out of their backpack. Luckily, many brands now use more subtle packaging to make this less of a concern. “Pads with individual wrappers or pouches make them easy to carry discreetly in a backpack or purse,” Dr. Cabeca says.

Best pads for teens at a glance

Best overall: Pinkie Teen & Tween Organic Pad Combo Pack

Best budget pad: Always Radiant FlexFoam Teen Pads

Best for heavy flow: U by Kotex Balance For Teens

Best earth-friendly pad: August Day & Night Pads

Best mission-based pad: Aunt Flow

Best washable pad: KT by Knix Reusable Snap Pads