Menstruation is a natural and essential biological function experienced by half of the global population, yet the products used to manage it have often been overlooked in public discourse. In Singapore, the sanitary pad remains one of the most widely used menstrual hygiene products, despite the growing presence of alternatives like menstrual cups and period underwear. As menstrual health becomes an increasingly important component of public health education and policy, understanding the role, evolution, and current use of the sanitary pad in Singapore offers insights into both cultural norms and changing consumer preferences.

This blog explores the significance of the sanitary pad in Singapore, from its widespread use to the issues of accessibility, sustainability, and consumer awareness.

The Sanitary Pad: An Essential Menstrual Hygiene Product

A sanitary pad, also referred to as a menstrual pad, is an absorbent item worn in underwear to absorb menstrual blood. Typically used externally (as opposed to tampons or menstrual cups which are internal products), sanitary pads are designed for convenience, ease of use, and minimal disruption to daily life during menstruation.

The basic design of the sanitary pad has evolved over the decades. Today, pads are available in a wide range of absorbency levels, lengths, shapes, and materials to accommodate different menstrual flows and personal preferences. Some include wings for added security, while others are ultra-thin for discreet wear.

In Singapore, sanitary pads are the default option for many menstruating individuals, including teenagers, young adults, and working professionals. Their availability, familiarity, and range of choices contribute to their continued dominance in the menstrual care market.

Usage Trends and Consumer Preferences in Singapore

Singapore’s population, characterized by high levels of education and access to health care, reflects a broad understanding of menstrual hygiene needs. Despite increased awareness of reusable and eco-friendly menstrual products, the sanitary pad continues to be the most commonly used product in the country.

Several factors influence this trend:

1. Cultural Comfort and Familiarity:
   In many Asian societies, including Singapore, external menstrual products like sanitary pads are often preferred due to cultural norms and personal comfort. Internal products, such as tampons or menstrual cups, are less commonly used, particularly among younger individuals or those who have limited exposure to alternative options.

2. Accessibility and Availability:
   Sanitary pads are readily available across Singapore, from supermarkets and pharmacies to convenience stores and vending machines in schools and public restrooms. This easy access makes them a practical and convenient choice for menstruators of all ages.

3. Affordability:
   Compared to some alternative menstrual products, sanitary pads are generally affordable, especially in multipacks. For individuals and families managing expenses, particularly during economic uncertainty, pads offer an economical solution for monthly menstrual care.

4. Variety and Innovation:
   The sanitary pad market in Singapore offers a wide range of options, including pads tailored for overnight use, active lifestyles, or sensitive skin. Some are infused with herbal or cooling properties, while others focus on being ultra-absorbent or ultra-thin. This level of product innovation has allowed the sanitary pad to remain relevant even as newer products enter the market.

Sanitary Pads and Youth Menstrual Education

In Singapore, menstrual education typically begins during upper primary or lower secondary school, where students are introduced to human biology and hygiene practices. Sanitary pads are usually the first and sometimes only product that young girls are taught to use during these lessons. Many schools distribute free starter packs that include pads along with educational materials, reinforcing the pad as the go-to product for beginners.

While this approach ensures that menstruating individuals are introduced to a practical and easy-to-use product, it can also limit awareness of other options. Nevertheless, the sanitary pad remains an important tool in helping young people manage menstruation confidently, especially during the early years of their menstrual cycle.

Environmental Concerns and Sustainability

One of the most pressing challenges associated with sanitary pad use in Singapore—and globally—is the environmental impact. Most disposable pads contain plastics, adhesives, and synthetic fibers, which are not biodegradable. A single sanitary pad can take hundreds of years to decompose, contributing significantly to landfill waste.

Singapore, as a city-state with limited landfill space and growing sustainability goals, is increasingly grappling with the environmental footprint of single-use products. In 2020, the National Environment Agency (NEA) reported that domestic waste accounted for 1.77 million tonnes, with hygiene products like diapers and pads forming a significant portion.

Efforts to raise awareness about sustainable menstrual products are growing, but sanitary pads remain the dominant product due to convenience, hygiene, and familiarity. The transition to more eco-friendly options is gradual and requires education, product accessibility, and often a cultural shift in attitudes toward menstrual care.

Accessibility and Period Poverty in Singapore

While Singapore is known for its economic prosperity, discussions around period poverty—the inability to afford adequate menstrual products—have recently gained attention. Some advocacy groups have highlighted that certain vulnerable populations, including low-income families and migrant workers, may face challenges accessing sanitary pads regularly.

In response, community-led initiatives and social enterprises have stepped in to provide free or subsidized sanitary pads to those in need. These efforts reflect a growing recognition of menstrual health as a fundamental human right, and the sanitary pad plays a central role in ensuring dignity and hygiene for all menstruating individuals.

Period product accessibility is also being addressed through public health policies. For example, schools and some workplaces have started offering free sanitary pads in restrooms to support menstrual equity. Such efforts contribute to normalizing menstruation and reducing the stigma that can surround it.

Health Considerations and Product Safety

Sanitary pads are regulated as hygiene products and must meet safety standards to ensure they do not pose health risks. However, concerns have been raised internationally about the presence of potential irritants or chemicals in some pads, such as fragrances, dyes, and superabsorbent polymers.

In Singapore, consumers are becoming more health-conscious and are beginning to scrutinize product ingredients, including those in menstrual care products. This has led to increased interest in chemical-free and hypoallergenic sanitary pads, especially among those with sensitive skin or recurring irritation.

Consumers are also paying more attention to how sanitary pads interact with their daily routines. Whether it's for active use during sports, long hours at work, or overnight protection, the health and performance of the pad remain a top priority.

The Future of Sanitary Pads in Singapore

The future of sanitary pad usage in Singapore will likely be shaped by a combination of technological innovation, environmental awareness, and shifts in public policy. While reusable menstrual products and organic alternatives are gradually gaining attention, disposable sanitary pads are expected to remain a mainstay for the foreseeable future due to their convenience and widespread acceptance.

However, change is on the horizon:

• Sustainable Materials: Manufacturers are exploring biodegradable materials and plastic-free designs to reduce the environmental impact of sanitary pads.

• Menstrual Equity Movements: Increased advocacy may lead to broader distribution of free menstrual products in public spaces, schools, and healthcare facilities.

• Consumer Education: As people become more informed about menstrual health, there may be a stronger push for transparency around product composition and environmental impact.

• Cultural Shifts: Continued efforts to destigmatize menstruation could open the door for greater acceptance of menstrual discussions, further improving product choices and access.

Conclusion

The sanitary pad holds a critical place in the menstrual health ecosystem in Singapore. It offers accessibility, comfort, and familiarity for millions of users, from young students to working professionals. While concerns about environmental sustainability and product transparency are becoming more prominent, the sanitary pad remains a foundational product in menstrual hygiene management.

As Singapore continues to champion public health, gender equity, and sustainability, conversations around menstrual products—including the sanitary pad—must remain inclusive, informed, and forward-thinking. Whether through policy support, education, or innovation, ensuring that everyone has access to safe and effective menstrual care is essential for the well-being of individuals and society at large.