In Singapore, where modern infrastructure meets diverse cultural practices, conversations around menstrual health are gradually becoming more open. One of the most common menstrual hygiene products used by individuals who menstruate is the sanitary pad. Despite its widespread use, there remain misconceptions, limited awareness about alternatives, and uneven access to menstrual education across different communities. Understanding the sanitary pad in the context of Singapore’s evolving society provides insight into not just health practices but also cultural norms, sustainability challenges, and educational gaps.

What is a Sanitary Pad?

A sanitary pad, also referred to as a menstrual pad or sanitary napkin, is an absorbent item worn in the underwear during menstruation to absorb menstrual blood. It is available in various types, lengths, thicknesses, and absorbency levels to suit different needs. Most sanitary pads are disposable and designed for single-use, though reusable cloth variants have gained attention in recent years.

Prevalence and Usage in Singapore

In Singapore, sanitary pads are the most commonly used menstrual hygiene product, particularly among adolescents and young adults. According to regional health surveys and educational insights, a majority of menstruating individuals in Singapore are introduced to sanitary pads as their first menstrual product. Accessibility in supermarkets, pharmacies, convenience stores, and online platforms contributes to its dominance in the market.

The use of sanitary pads cuts across age groups, socioeconomic levels, and ethnicities. However, preferences can differ based on comfort, price, brand trust, and awareness of alternatives such as tampons or menstrual cups.

Cultural Attitudes and Conversations

Although Singapore is a modern, urban society, cultural attitudes toward menstruation still influence how sanitary pads are discussed and used. In some households, menstruation is viewed as a private or even taboo topic, which can limit open conversations, especially between parents and children. This occasionally results in a lack of proper guidance during puberty, leading to misconceptions or discomfort about using sanitary pads.

Efforts in schools to introduce menstrual health education have improved awareness, yet disparities persist. Some students report receiving minimal practical knowledge about different types of sanitary pads, including how to choose the right one based on their needs.

Sanitary Pad Disposal and Environmental Considerations

One of the growing concerns related to sanitary pad usage in Singapore is environmental sustainability. Most disposable sanitary pads contain plastic components, including the backsheet and packaging. When improperly disposed of, these products can contribute to landfill waste and environmental degradation.

Singapore has a well-developed waste management system, but public education on the proper disposal of sanitary pads remains limited. Many individuals wrap used pads in toilet paper or plastic bags and dispose of them in general waste bins, but there is limited conversation about the long-term impact of this practice.

The conversation around eco-friendly menstrual products is gradually gaining traction in Singapore. Reusable sanitary pads, which are made from cloth and can be washed and reused for several years, are increasingly discussed in sustainability forums. However, adoption remains relatively low, often due to a lack of awareness or concerns about hygiene and convenience.

Health and Hygiene Practices

Proper usage and hygiene are essential when using sanitary pads to prevent infections and maintain menstrual health. In Singapore, where access to clean water and private restroom facilities is high, the basic infrastructure supports good menstrual hygiene. However, education remains key.

It is generally advised to change sanitary pads every 4 to 6 hours, depending on the flow. Prolonged use of a single pad can lead to skin irritation, rashes, or even bacterial infections. Despite these guidelines, some individuals may extend pad usage due to convenience, cost-saving measures, or limited awareness, particularly in lower-income communities.

Public facilities, especially in schools and workplaces, have improved in terms of providing disposal bins in female restrooms, but inconsistency in maintenance can still lead to discomfort or embarrassment for users.

Economic Accessibility

While sanitary pads are widely available in Singapore, their affordability can be a concern for some groups. Discussions around menstrual equity — the idea that menstrual products should be accessible and affordable to all — are emerging slowly in the public sphere.

Initiatives by NGOs and community groups have highlighted the issue of period poverty, where individuals may struggle to afford sanitary pads or have to ration their use. This can lead to health risks and social exclusion, especially among students or migrant workers.

The government and educational institutions have begun to acknowledge these challenges. Some schools now provide free sanitary pads in restrooms or allow students to request them discreetly from school staff. However, a broader nationwide conversation is still in its early stages.

Innovation and Changing Preferences

In recent years, Singapore has seen a rise in awareness around menstrual product innovation. While sanitary pads remain dominant, there is growing curiosity about other products such as menstrual cups and period underwear. These shifts in interest are often driven by younger consumers who are more environmentally conscious and open to trying new solutions.

Despite this, the sanitary pad remains the preferred choice for many due to its ease of use, perceived safety, and familiarity. It continues to evolve with features such as better absorbency, anti-leak barriers, breathable materials, and designs suited for active lifestyles.

As users in Singapore become more informed and health-conscious, preferences may shift further. Still, the sanitary pad’s role in menstrual hygiene remains central.

Education and the Role of Schools

Schools in Singapore play a crucial role in shaping awareness about menstrual health and the use of sanitary pads. Most public schools include menstrual education in health or science curricula around Primary 5 or 6. While the coverage of biological aspects is generally thorough, practical information about choosing and using sanitary pads is sometimes limited.

Workshops and external programmes led by health educators or NGOs are increasingly being used to fill this gap. These sessions often include demonstrations on how to use sanitary pads, maintain hygiene, and manage menstruation with confidence. When done effectively, they help students develop a positive and informed approach to menstrual health.

However, not all students receive the same quality of education on this topic. Language barriers, cultural stigma, and lack of parental involvement can hinder learning. Encouraging open discussions and destigmatizing menstruation is key to improving outcomes.

Conclusion

The sanitary pad is more than just a hygiene product — it reflects societal attitudes, access to education, environmental consciousness, and healthcare priorities. In Singapore, the widespread use of sanitary pads underscores their central role in menstrual health, but it also highlights important challenges.

As Singapore continues to develop socially and environmentally, there is an opportunity to address these issues more directly. Improved education, greater support for menstrual equity, and more sustainable product choices will allow individuals to manage their periods with dignity, safety, and awareness.

A future where every individual in Singapore can access appropriate, hygienic, and sustainable menstrual products — beginning with the sanitary pad — is both necessary and achievable.