Menorrhagia is the medical term for heavy menstrual flow. People who suffer from this condition will experience heavy bleeding that might last for more than seven days. If the person doesn’t opt for the best pads for heavy flow, she will have leakage, irritation, and even infection. The pads made for heavy periods have a higher absorption rate and are hypoallergenic. Not everybody can distinguish between those pads for regular periods and the ones for heavy bleeding. If your periods’ flow soaks your pad entirely in one hour’s time, you may need to switch to a better pad made for a heavy flow. Also, if you have been experiencing it for a long time, it is better to consult your gynecologist. Not sure which are the best pads for heavy periods? Here, we have listed some of the best pads that are clinically approved and highly beneficial for those who experience a heavy menstrual flow.
11 Best Pads For Heavy Periods
1. Best For High Absorption: Wegreeco Bamboo Reusable Menstrual Pad
The Wegreeco Bamboo Reusable Menstrual Pads are designed for energetic women and have a modern design with a high absorption feature. This sustainable pad is odor-neutralizing, ultra-soft, and made of breathable fabric which is more gentle on your skin when compared to most disposable sanitary pads. The gray charcoal inner layer sits comfortably against your skin and lets you feel fresh for longer hours. Free from toxic chemicals, these easy-to-clip-on pads are also free from chafing and irritation. You can choose between the machine-washable pads that come in four kinds of sizes and thicknesses depending on whether you have light, medium, or heavy flow days. Know if the product is useful or not by checking out this video. Pros
Eco-friendly Middle microfiber layer for strong absorbency Double button design Available in vibrant colors
Cons
Pad might slide a bit while wearing loose clothing May be a little sweaty for summers
2. Best Leak-Free: Always Radiant Flex Foam Pads
The Always Radiant Flex Foam Pads are designed to be 100% leak-free and odor-free. What you get is zero-feel protection that is made possible by the flex foam that is thin, soft, and flexible to keep you protected from all physical movements. This pad is dermatologically tested and approved to be skin-friendly so you can wear it for long hours without any discomfort. Available in different sizes, these sanitary pads absorb up to ten times their weight and deliver discreet protection with a light feeling. The pads are inspired by fashion prints, have a light, clean scent, and come in a pack of 78, that lasts long. Watch this video for the user experience of this product. Pros
Comfortable My Fit guide aides in accurate size selection Separate pads for days and nights Tropical and cool neon printed covers HSA/FSA-eligible
Cons
Scent can a bit overpowering May not be suitable to use with narrow underwear
3. Best Plant-Based: The Honey Pot Company Overnight Herbal Pads With Wings
The Overnight Herbal Pads With Wings include plant-based and non-toxic ingredients combined with a super-absorbent technology that tackles heavy flows. These sanitary pads are manufactured with cotton that is free from chlorine and pesticides, and is infused with rose, lavender, aloe, and mint essential oils. The pads also come with wings that are 33 cm long and offer an irritation-free and refreshing feeling to keep you relaxed all night. Stay comfortable without having to worry about leakage, staining, dryness, and discomfort when you choose these pads that are available in a pack of 12, for the best overnight care. Pros
All natural Clinically tested and pH-balanced Has a cooling effect Artificial perfume-free Carcinogen-free
Cons
May not be suitable for highly sensitive skin types Adhesive grip may vary as per the panty’s fabric type
4. Best For Overnight Menstrual Flow: Stayfree Maxi Super Long Pads With Wings
The Stayfree Maxi Super Long Pads With Wings is just what you need for all-in-one multi-fluid absorption. Ideal for overnight menstrual flow, these pads for heavy periods have four-wall protection with 18 anti-leak channels so you can remain worry-free. The softcover absorbs up to 30% more while providing maximum comfort on heavy flow days. This pack of 45 sanitary pads is quick-absorbing and designed with technology to pull moisture quickly and help you stay dry all day with a neutral odor that is backed by a triple-action odor control feature. You can choose a secure and no-shift fit that comes in the form of different lengths including Regular, Long, and Super Long as you get front-to-back, and side-to-side protection. Pros
No-feel protection Up to eight-hour dryness Suitable for postpartum and bladder leaks Exclusive extra-wide coverage Night-Guard Zone HSA/FSA-eligible
Cons
Perfumed pads Some may find them thick
5. Best Hypoallergenic: U By Kotex Security Maxi Pads
If you are on the lookout for some of the best pads for heavy periods, you won’t want to skip out on the U By Kotex Security Maxi Pads. Designed with no harsh ingredients, these maxi pads are gentle on the skin and absorb within a few seconds to offer you up to ten hours of express dry protection. The breathable top sheet is made of soft cotton that is dermatologist-tested to be safe and gentle on the skin. The hypoallergenic period pads come individually wrapped in elegant designs. You can also pick different sizes like regular, heavy, overnight, and extra heavy overnight depending on the absorbency that you need. This video gives you complete information on the U By Kotex Security pads. Pros
Pesticide-free Perfume-free Elemental chlorine-free Wings option available FSA-, HSA-,and HRA-eligible
Cons
Some may find it a bit thick May not be as large
6. Best Flexible Wings: Always Maxi Xtra Heavy Overnight Pads
Get all-night sleep protection with the unique design of the Always Maxi Xtra Heavy Overnight Pads that offer additional comfort during extra heavy periods. The pack of 20 pads is larger than regular sizes and delivers longer front-to-back protection with their wide ends. The raised core also helps to fit your body comfortably while the multiple barriers are made for up to ten hours of leak-free use. This pad for heavy periods is made with soft cotton and has flexible wings, with gentle adhesives that keep the pad snug in place to help you stay fresh and get a good night’s rest. Pros
Not too bulky Two-times larger back Postpartum recovery-friendly Deep channels to capture heavy fluid
Cons
May not be latex-free May not fit well
7. Best Organic: Cora Overnight Pads
With a 100% organic cotton top sheet, the Cora Overnight Pads are a safe bet for both you and the planet. The organic top sheet is dermatologically tested and has moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry and comfortable throughout the night. The hypoallergenic pads are also breathable and offer up to ten hours of leak protection even on days of heavy periods. If you are on the lookout for an ultra-absorbent pad for heavy periods, this one has rapid absorbing channels that come in different sizes including Regular, Super, Overnight and Maxi. Make the best choice for your body with these pads that are made without chlorine, dyes, or fragrances. Pros
Ultra-flexible No harsh chemicals Cashmere-soft Side barriers to prevent leakage from sides GOTS-certified
Cons
May not be 100% plastic-free Adhesive could be a bit problematic
8. Best Breathable: Solimo Maxi Pads With Flexi-Wings
The Solimo Maxi Pads With Flexi-Wings offer extra heavy overnight protection with an absorbent core that provides up to 11 hours of leakage protection. The Dri-Fit cotton-enhanced top sheet helps wick away moisture and the breathable layers underneath keep you feeling comfortable for hours at stretch. Each pad is individually wrapped for protection and convenience and also has Flexi-Wings to ensure that the pad stays in place. Choose the best option for your skin and health with these pads that are free from fragrances and elemental chlorine that won’t irritate your skin. Pros
Omni-odor guard Thick design for leak protection Sizing chart available for accurate pick Five-size range Discreet wrapping
Cons
May not be ultra-comfortable Some may find it lumpy
9. Best Washable: Teamoy Reusable Sanitary Pads
Heavy period days can be tricky to navigate and the Teamoy Reusable Sanitary Pads come in a pack of six washable cloth pads in a medium size for your comfort. The soft and comfortable pads are super-absorbent and have a four-layer design including a charcoal bamboo fiber layer, two layers of microfiber, and a waterproof outer layer. While the top layer is light against your skin and eliminates odor, the middle layers offer maximum absorbency, and the water-resistant layer prevents spills. You can choose from small, medium, and large sizes that are available in colorful patterns and store them in the jungle wet dry bag that accompanies this pack. Pros
Easy to fold Eco-friendly Soft and comfortable Comes with a two-in-one waterproof bag
Cons
May have a tendency to move at times May seem bulky
10. Best Easy-To-Wear: Think Eco Organic Reusable Cotton Pads
The Think Eco Organic Reusable Cotton Pads are made of OCS100 organic cotton that does not contain harmful substances, making it a safer alternative for women with heavy period flows. Say goodbye to skin irritation, allergies, and chafing with these organic and reusable pads for heavy periods. Each one is finished in overlock and is thin, breathable, and feels invisible when worn. Instead of a removable liner for absorbency, the Think Eco pads feature a six-layer design that has a waterproof leak locker that absorbs your flow. They are also easy to wear and come with simple wrap wings that you can secure around the panty gusset and snap shut. Pros
Made of Korean paper cotton Easy to wash Light color for better visibility while cleaning Ecocert Greenlife-certified FDA-registered
Cons
Not suitable for machine washing May not stay stain-free over time
11. Best Security: Cosyoung Overnight Reusable And Washable Sanitary Pads
If you’re looking for sanitary pads that are ideal for those heavy flow days, this pack of ten pads is just what you need. Each pad is 14 inches long and absorbs equivalent to an overnight postpartum absorbency pad. The pads comprise five layers including an upper charcoal bamboo layer, three inner layers with microfiber, and an outer layer with a PUL backing. These pads for heavy periods are simple to maintain and machine-washable which allows for easy cleaning. Pros
Wings with snap set Comfortable Environment-friendly Incontinence-friendly
Cons
May take time to dry after washing Doesn’t come with a travel pouch
How To Choose The Right Pads For Heavy Periods?
Keep these pointers in mind when choosing a pad for heavy periods. Shawnda Dorantes APRN, MSN, FNP-C, a family nurse practitioner says, “When choosing a pad, it’s all about safety, comfort, and fit. Many people believe that reusable pads aren’t as sanitary as disposable ones, and this isn’t true. No matter what your preference, choose a pad that is made of non-toxic materials and devoid of synthetic fragrances.”
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna, our experienced writer and reviewer of personal care products, has collated this list of the best pads for heavy periods after thorough research and careful contemplation of several sanitary pads available. She has handpicked high-quality, clinically-approved pads that are hypoallergenic and have a high absorption rate. Also, she has provided a detailed explanation of each product’s features to help you compare your options. Read through the buying guide section and make a conscious choice. Every menstrual cycle may vary from the last one and it’s important to be prepared for the days when you’re likely to have a heavier flow. Finding the right pad for heavy periods is important to ensure that you feel secure and comfortable, without having to rush to the bathroom one too many times. Choose a sanitary pad that comes in a larger size, preferably one with wings so that it sits comfortably and won’t budge as you go about your day. You can also look for pads that are specifically designed for heavy periods and come with a higher absorbency rate. Ideally, you can opt for pads that are reusable and made of organic materials, to also do your bit for the environment.
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