Is it normal to use sanitary pads all the time?

Hi,

This discharge is a normal function which is meant to lubricate the vagina and keep it healthy and smooth. Every girl has some discharge, but the amount varies from girl to girl, and it also varies with age. Girls will have more discharge during puberty. A lot of girls also get more discharge for a few days during their period, around the time of ovulation.

This discharge can lead to your pants getting damp. If you use sanitary pads constantly your skin may become irritated and then the discharge can even increase. In this case it is better to use small, thin sanitary pads, but we would not advise you to use these all the time, as they can also get damp and irritate the skin. One piece of advice would be to change underpants. Cotton pants breathe better than synthetic ones. You should also use pants instead of a G-string.  Pants are thicker in the middle, and this can absorb a little discharge. G-strings are very narrow and have very little cloth with which to absorb the discharge. They also sit very close to the mucous membrane, which can lead to irritation and increased discharge. Try using the different solutions and find which works best for you. Perhaps you could use sanitary pads at school or during other activities, and then just use cotton pants when you are at home. It’s also a good idea to change sanitary pads frequently. Try to just use water when you wash yourself in that area, you can also use a perfume-free soap.

You can talk to the school nurse if you continue to worry about having too much discharge. If the discharge has a bad smell or has a darker colour then contact your doctor.

Best wishes,

boyandgirl.info