11 Feminine Hygiene Products Indian Women Should Know About

Choosing the right feminine hygiene products can make everyday life more comfortable and healthier. This guide walks through 11 important products and options that Indian women commonly use or should know about. We mix traditional practices and modern solutions, describe practical care, and note where to find help in towns or villages. The goal is simple: clear facts, usable tips, and culturally aware advice so you can pick what fits your routine and budget. The list draws on research and public health reporting, including a large study from Odisha and guidance from trusted health platforms (Frontiers in Global Women’s Health, 2025; UNICEF; PharmEasy). You’ll also see brief notes about government programs that increase access, such as the Menstrual Hygiene Scheme and state efforts like Odisha’s Khusi scheme. The content is India-focused but also helpful to anyone in the diaspora seeking India-specific products or cultural context. Throughout, I highlight safe practices for washing, storing, and disposing of products to protect health and the environment. If you have recurring symptoms or infections, see a local clinician rather than relying on over-the-counter fixes. Now let’s walk through the 11 products, how they work, and practical pointers for everyday use.

1. Disposable sanitary pads — Widely used, accessible, and evolving quality

Disposable sanitary pads are the most widely recognised menstrual product in India. They are single-use absorbent pads worn inside underwear to collect menstrual flow, and a 2025 Odisha study found high reported use of sanitary pads among participants (Frontiers in Global Women’s Health, 2025). Pads come in many varieties — thin, extra-absorbent, winged, and longer-night versions — so pick the one that fits your flow and comfort needs. Government and NGO programs often provide subsidised pads through schools and health centres, which helps reach more people in rural areas, yet the same study reported varying satisfaction with different supply programs (Frontiers in Global Women’s Health, 2025). Disposal is a major issue: many used pads are buried or thrown into rivers, which creates sanitation problems; the Odisha research noted concerning disposal trends in some locations (Frontiers in Global Women’s Health, 2025). For everyday use, change pads regularly, wrap them before discarding, and look for local municipal guidance on disposal. If the supplied pads cause irritation, try a different thickness or a hypoallergenic variant and consult a health worker if irritation persists.