Is It Just Me or Are Pads Still Judged? 😳

I was just at Target grabbing a few feminine things and ended up in that aisle. 

You know—the one where you suddenly feel like everyone’s watching what you pick. 😅 

I grew up in the 90s when buying pads felt like a secret mission. You’d walk down the aisle, head down, praying you didn’t see anyone from school. 

𝐓𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞 “𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞.” 𝐏𝐚𝐝𝐬 𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐞 “𝐦𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐲.” 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞. 

Fast-forward to now and that quiet judgment still hasn’t gone away.  At checkout, I swear I can feel it: the eyebrow raise, the smirk, the silent “pads, really?” 

And depending on the kind I grab, I already know what they’re thinking: 

“Is it for your period, or because you pee when you laugh?” 🙄 

Somewhere along the way, pads got labeled as “messy” and tampons as “clean,”

like there’s a right way to have your period.

𝐁𝐞 𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐭: 

does anyone else still get the look when buying pads? Or is it just me imagining society still stuck in middle-school mode? 😂 

#GirlTalk #periodtalk #LetsTalkAboutIt #AskLemon8 #lemon8welllness

2025/10/17 Edited to

42 comments

Jenna's images
Jenna

Whatever you are comfortable with! As long as you change it regularly, clean it out whatever so you don’t get toxic shock syndrome

Mimi_16_garci's images
Mimi_16_garci

Girl, it doesn't even matter if a woman wears tampons, menstrual cups, period underwear, or pads. I have been using pads for a long time, and I feel just fine. Its uncomfortable for me to use tampons or any of that since I do bleed a lot so I stick with something more simple and affordable. Don't let them judge you, you do you! Do whatever you feel comfortable with. 👍

See more(3)

See more comments

Related posts

A single pad and various period product packaging are shown, with text overlayed, including a quote: "She still wears pads??" and "THE GIRL BEHIND ME WHISPERED." The image conveys judgment around period product choices.
An open drawer or box is filled with numerous individually wrapped pads in teal and pink packaging. Overlaid text discusses a friend being judged for using a pad and questions the idea of a 'grown woman' checklist for period products.
Text overlayed on a blurred background states that some women cannot use tampons due to trauma, PCOS, or personal preference, emphasizing that pads are clean, comfortable, and fine.
Why are pads still getting hate in 2025??
You’re telling me girls are still getting judged for using pads in 2025?? My friend texted me from a public bathroom—some girl next to her whispered, “She still wears pads? That’s gross.” Like… excuse me? Since when did period care become a competition? Some of us use pads because of trauma. S
Edenn🐙

Edenn🐙

1515 likes

A sanitary pad is shown with text overlays like "SAD" and "WTF?!", highlighting the phrase "She still wears pads??" THE GIRL BEHIND ME WHISPERED..." against a blurry background of period product packaging.
An open drawer is filled with various individually wrapped sanitary pads, predominantly in teal and pink packaging. Overlaid text discusses a friend being judged for using a pad in a public bathroom.
Various personal care items, including wipes and small pouches, are scattered on a patterned blanket. Overlaid text explains reasons why some individuals use pads, stating they are clean, comfortable, and fine.
Do people still judge pad users?
This literally made my skin crawl. So my friend texts me from a public bathroom like, WHILE she’s in the stall and tells me that the girl next to her just whispered, “She still wears pads?? That’s so gross.” Like… huh??? Are we seriously still doing that in 2025? Why are we acting like the
brittany

brittany

4465 likes

Why do women still get judged for body hair?
Why do we treat body hair like shame? Women aren’t meant to be spotless 24/7. Some grow it, some remove it, both are okay. But the judgment? That’s what’s actually dirty. #BodyHair #FeminineConfidence #feminine #bodycare #shavingtipsforgirls
Nikki🍋

Nikki🍋

2456 likes

Why are women judged for having “too much hair”?
#GirlTalk #lemon8challenge #longhairproblems #hairy #bodyshaming Body hair doesn’t define femininity. I’m done treating my natural self like a problem that needs fixing. What’s one beauty rule you’re finally unlearning???
Nikki🍋

Nikki🍋

1814 likes

Four wireless numeric keypads are displayed in packaging, featuring animal designs: frog, bear, dog, and cat. They highlight comfortable keys, ergonomic design, and anti-skid pads.
A close-up of the frog and cat-themed wireless numeric keypads. The cat design, in pink, is held, showcasing its layout. The image emphasizes the various animal designs available.
The back of the cat-themed wireless numeric keypad packaging details its features: wired, Bluetooth, or 2.4GHz connectivity, 17 keys, and compatibility with various operating systems.
Wireless number pads from five below 🤍
i showed yall the yunzii c68 dupe from five below but they also have these matching number pads which are sooo adorable !!! im a sucker for 65% keyboard but sometimes i just miss having a number pad so these are literally perfect for me, and you too if you have the same problem. these have w
josie 𓇢𓆸

josie 𓇢𓆸

1686 likes

Pads Feel Like Diapers, Sorry 😭
Pads are childish. There, I said it 😭 I switched to tampons and menstrual cups years ago, and honestly I can’t imagine going back. Pads feel bulky, loud, and like you’re wearing a mini mattress between your legs 😭 I know some people say they’re “more comfortable” or “safer,” but personally? I
Natrol

Natrol

756 likes

When everyone else judged her past, Jesus saw her
#Jesus #ChristianTikTok #Faith #Bible #God #JesusLovesYou #BibleVerse #Christian #Prayer #HolySpirit #Forgiveness #Viral #FYP #ForYouPage #Motivation #Healing #Worship #TikTokChristian #JesusSaves #BibleStudy
LOVE IS THE GREATEST

LOVE IS THE GREATEST

139 likes

A young woman with long blonde hair takes a mirror selfie, wearing a pink top and grey sweatpants, with text overlay about social media being fake and her weight loss journey.
A side-by-side comparison shows a woman before and after significant weight loss, with text expressing her continued body image struggles despite being a size 2.
A split image shows a woman before and after weight loss, wearing the same oversized bulldog t-shirt, with text about feeling unclean despite her transformation.
Social media is FAKE
Yes I am in therapy. Lol. This is just my diary entry at this point. One thing ive learned these past 2 years is that people treat plus sized individuals so different. I went from a size 24 in pants to a size 2. 323lbs to 128. Everyone acts different. Nobody avoids eye contact with me anymore. Em
Alabama Foster

Alabama Foster

3700 likes

A person takes a mirror selfie, wearing a grey jacket and jeans, with text overlay stating "My coworkers said pads are gross." The background shows a room with framed art and a sign in Japanese.
A person sits in a car, taking a selfie, with text overlay discussing personal preferences for menstrual products and the safety of pads. They are wearing a dark blue jacket.
A person takes a mirror selfie in a public restroom, wearing a black polo shirt and jeans, with text overlay asserting their choice of menstrual products despite judgment. A wet floor sign is visible.
Have you ever been shamed for using pads?
I don’t think women should be shamed for wearing pads. I honestly don’t even understand why it’s such an issue these days. Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to what makes them feel most comfortable during their period, and that should be respected. It’s frustrating that something as
cici

cici

10 likes

An open drawer filled with various period products, including pads in clear organizers and a box of period underwear, with text asking if using pads isn't gross.
A woman with dark hair, wearing a pink robe, lying down and looking at the camera, with text discussing judgment for using pads.
Two wooden shelves in a bathroom, displaying a blue package and a spray can, with text expressing a dislike for tampons but no judgment for others.
do you use pads or tampons?
When I first got my period, the idea of using tampons felt like way too much at once 😅 I got in the habit of using pads - but the older I get, the more I hear things like “pads are gross” and women suggesting a switch to tampons. Which made me feel bad about myself/unclean at first. But there
carley ◡̈

carley ◡̈

310 likes

The standard for women is still so different
Why do we criticize women more harshly than men? It shows up in small ways— how we describe confidence, emotion, ambition, even motherhood. Most of us learned these patterns without realizing it. That doesn’t make us bad—it just means we have something to unlearn. Awareness is where it s
TheUnveiledTherapist

TheUnveiledTherapist

15 likes

I judged a book by its cover!
I love a good book cover and here are some books I bought specifically because of it! #books #bookreccomendation #booktok
Rachel

Rachel

267 likes

Tips to reduce the risk of SIDS…
While I did NOT follow most of these as I Coslept/Bedshared, I followed the Safe Sleep 7. The Safe Sleep 7 is a set of guidelines for safe Co-sleeping/Bedsharing: 1. No smoking: Neither parent should smoke before or during bed-sharing. 2. Sober parent: The parent should not be under the infl
Saige | Toddler mom✨🪴❤️

Saige | Toddler mom✨🪴❤️

478 likes

Your Body Is A Social Resume 🫠🔥
Nobody wants to admit this 🫠 But your body gets read before your personality does. Posture says something. Skin says something. Energy says something. Even the way you walk into a room gets judged 👀 That’s why “just love yourself” sounds cute online. But offline? People treat a put-toge
Yalo

Yalo

5 likes

A hand holds a purple box of Always scented extra long liners, featuring text overlays that read, "I NEVER thought I'd hear this in a public bathroom...." The box highlights features like light bladder leaks, light flow, spotting, sweat, and discharge.
A hand holds a purple box of Always liners in a bathroom setting. An overlay quotes, "The girl washing her hands said: 'Pads?? I stopped using those in MIDDLE SCHOOL'". A yellow lemon emoji is also visible.
A hand holds a purple box of Always extra long liners. Overlay text asks, "Why do some women act like period products have an age limit??" Blue question marks and a "NO IDEA" graphic are also present.
Are pads “for kids” now?? Be so serious.
I was in a public bathroom and two girls walked in talking about cramps. One of them mentioned needing to buy pads, and the other girl literally whispered, “Wait… people our age still wear pads?” It wasn’t loud or rude — it just sounded like genuine confusion, but it still made me pause. Like
Priscella ✿

Priscella ✿

958 likes

Yes, I judged a book by its cover🤷🏼‍♀️
Saw this gorgeous book when I walked into Barnes & Noble and knew I wouldn’t be leaving without it. Purple sprayed edges? Sign me up🌹🖤😈 I love a good dark romance so I’m super excited to read this one. Comment your thoughts if you’ve read Gothikana! #lemon8bookclub #booksoflemon8
Olivia Bartsch

Olivia Bartsch

128 likes

•HERE ARE MY SKATEBOARDING INSECURITIES:
I started skateboarding in June of 2025! It’s hard to say I’m still a beginner because I can never find time to skateboard. I want to start learning properly to drop and ride my board before I start going to skateparks out of fear of getting judged and laughed at by older guys because where
•✞sɪʀɪᴜs✞•

•✞sɪʀɪᴜs✞•

10 likes

Why do women still shame each other fo using pads?
When I got my period at 13, pads were all I knew. But as I got older, I noticed how people ,even other women started to look down on it. “Pads are gross.” “You should switch to tampons.” It made me question my own comfort, like I was behind or “less clean.” Now I realize: there’s no “mature” or
Nikki🍋

Nikki🍋

792 likes

You feel Judged 🤌✨
People judge you because they don’t even know you. And it broke you. It literally broke you in ways you’ve never thought was possible. I want you to know you are Loved ❤️✨ #youareloved #judged #overcomingchallenges #spiritualawakening #darknightofthesoul
Chris Archangelo

Chris Archangelo

0 likes

Pads or Tampons?
I posted this a couple of months ago, so this is just an update on my journey on which is the better menstrual product~ for me. I started using tampons 2 months ago, hesitantly, and for the beginning part of this "journey," it was pretty painful. June was I tried them, and I cried at the
jeezursilly

jeezursilly

222 likes

A woman holds a green-patterned pad, looking sideways, with text asking "Anyone else feel judged for preferring pads??? SWIPE".
A hand holds a green-patterned pad, with "YES" and "NO" speech bubbles. Text states, "Growing up I felt like as soon as you learned to use a tampon you HAD to only use tampons."
A hand holds a package of organic cotton panty liners. Text explains that tampons caused irritation and bleeding, and pads are more effective and comfortable.
Is it weird I prefer pads over tampons??
Okay, can we have a little real girl talk for a second? 👀 Is it weird that I actually prefer pads over tampons? Because honestly… I do! 🙈 Everyone always hypes up tampons for being “easier” or “cleaner,” but for me, pads just feel so much more comfortable. I don’t have to stress about leaking, and
MommaHolm

MommaHolm

25 likes

does anyone else feel like this??
I swear I get dirty looks for using pads being in my late 20’s 😅 it feels embarrassing to give someone a pad when they ask for a tampon! I’m afraid they’re going to judge me for not being women enough for using a tampon… Or they’ll think I’m gross because “tampons” are more hygienic. Which i
rachel

rachel

21 likes

Pretty Bodies Are Not Politically Fair 😮‍💨
People hate admitting this 😮‍💨 but bodies are not judged fairly, especially online. A lean waist gets called discipline. A softer body gets called excuses. The internet is brutal ⚠️ So if I had 3 months, I would stop pretending it is only about health. It is also social currency, confiden
rgy6486479

rgy6486479

0 likes

5 REMINDERS: PEOPLE WILL TALK ANYWAY—DON’T LOSE YOURSELF TRYING TO CONTROL IT ✨
People will: 👉 stay silent when you’re doing well 👉 spread it when you fall 👉 and create stories when they know nothing And still… 👉 you’ll try to explain yourself 👉 you’ll try to prove yourself 👉 you’ll try to be understood But the truth is… 👉 You cannot control what people say
Aisha .T Cleaners & J Advocate

Aisha .T Cleaners & J Advocate

73 likes

A pink-themed flat lay featuring a laptop displaying 'TV SHOWS that RAISED ME,' surrounded by a Starbucks drink, a tablet showing '11:11,' a candle, and various pink accessories, emphasizing good vibes and self-care.
A pink-themed flat lay featuring a laptop displaying 'Zoey 101,' set against a locker background. It includes a Starbucks drink, a flip phone, a tablet, and notes about freedom, friendships, and messy adventures.
A pink-themed flat lay featuring a laptop displaying 'Victorious,' set against a Hollywood Arts locker background. It includes a Starbucks drink, a flip phone, a tablet, and notes about creativity, confidence, and following dreams.
TV Shows that raised me
✨ TV shows that literally raised me 💿💖 ✨ Hannah Montana This show made me believe you could dream bigger than your small town and still stay true to yourself. I loved the double-life chaos, the concerts, the glittery outfits, and the idea that normal girls could become something huge. The messa
Miriam Wong

Miriam Wong

237 likes

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged.”- Matthew 7:1
#judgement #wayofgod #unfiltered #mindset
✨🌕Luna_Loto🪷✨

✨🌕Luna_Loto🪷✨

0 likes

Are men allowed to be vulnerable?
Men deserve emotional safety too, and I feel like this doesn’t get said enough. We talk a lot about women needing safe spaces to express feelings (which is valid), but somehow men are still expected to “be strong,” stay quiet, and not feel too much. Then we wonder why so many of them shut down emot
Cookwithme🥰🥰

Cookwithme🥰🥰

25 likes

Wellness or control? 🚨🧘‍♀️
Here is the problem with glow up culture 🫢 It calls control “wellness” so it sounds prettier. Walking every day. Sleeping early. Drinking water. Working out. Doing skincare ✨ All of that can be healthy. But it can also become a performance. That is why people fight about posts like t
Plkiniujol

Plkiniujol

5 likes

If Smooth Is Optional... Why Judge? 🤨✨
People say smooth skin is optional 🤨 So why are women still judged when it is not there? 👀 That is the question nobody answers 💀 Because the standard is unofficial, but very real 😒 No one hands you a rulebook 📖 Yet somehow everyone knows the rules 🫠 No visible chin hair ✨ No underarm s
rudle088618

rudle088618

0 likes

❓ “Which pads are actually safe
You guys so I tried a new pad last period and it was a nope from me. I woke up one morning with the skin around my thighs and vulva so red and itchy that I couldn’t sit comfortably. It looked like a rash, and I hated it. I realized the pad I used had a rough top layer, maybe fragrance or dye, and i
Milaidy🫧🌺🍕

Milaidy🫧🌺🍕

85 likes

Ever feel like your back is against the wall!? 🥹🫠
This is a safe space Right? 😅 Just asking cause I’m about to dumpppp. Mentally and physically I’ve just been drained unfortunately 😭. From the outside looking in, it looks like I just have everything together. People swear my finances, education just life in general is all in order but real
LeAndra’s Diary

LeAndra’s Diary

6 likes

Costco is basically giving away iPads
I almost paid $489. Then I found this. Ended up paying $144. This deal is still live but won't be for long. Visit Costouni (D0T) C0M….. #CostcoDeals #iPadAir #TechSavings #CostcoHacks #iPadDiscount
Michelle Crum

Michelle Crum

27 likes

Pilates Girl Aesthetic Is Class Coding
I love Pilates, but let’s not lie 🩰 the aesthetic is not just fitness. It’s class coding with ankle socks. The studio mirror, the $18 smoothie, the clean bun, the soft voice ✨ It all says: “I have time, money, and no chaos following me today.” That’s why home workouts get judged 🙃 Same swe
Zzzz

Zzzz

0 likes

Judged won’t lock up any criminal
#meme #funny #laugh #humor #joke
Crista

Crista

4 likes

A hand holds a jar of exfoliating pore pads, highlighting key ingredients like AHA and BHA, and stating it's perfect for sensitive skin. The jar contains 70 pads.
The only exfoliating pads I trust on my skin ✨
These pads have honestly been such a good addition to my routine, especially because my skin is sensitive and usually reacts to exfoliating products. I was a little nervous at first since it has AHA and BHA, but the way it’s formulated makes it feel surprisingly gentle as long as I don’t overdo it.
Cookwithme🥰🥰

Cookwithme🥰🥰

28 likes

I Judged the CoverSo You Don’t Have to📚✨
3 of 12 We’re currently sorting through our book selection and which ones we’d like to keep till our due date. And these 3 are not going back anytime soon. So far these 3 have made their way into our rotation books selection. #bookreccomendation #childrenbooks #supportyourlocallib
Saphire🌞🪻

Saphire🌞🪻

7 likes

A public restroom with white tiled walls, a sink, and a metallic vending machine for feminine hygiene products. Red and black stripes decorate the wall. Overlay text questions why paying for pads is still common.
A public restroom interior showing a sink, mirror, and a vending machine for feminine products. The text questions why pads are not free like toilet paper, soap, and paper towels.
A corner of a public restroom with white tiled walls and red stall doors. Part of a vending machine is visible. The text discusses the dignity of period care and the panic of needing supplies unexpectedly.
Why are pads still not free in public restrooms?
It feels outdated that in 2025, pads are still locked behind coins, vending machines, or not available at all. Especially in schools, hospitals, airports, and workplaces, places where people already deal with stress. This isn’t about being dramatic. It’s about basic care. If we can agree that usin
Medjoue

Medjoue

934 likes

Like it’s anyone’s business
I was at the grocery store last week with my 7-year-old, buying pads, and this random woman whispered to her friend, “Still using pads at her age?” I couldn’t believe it. Why do people care what period product someone uses? I’ve tried tampons before, and they just don’t feel comfortable for me and
Isabella

Isabella

36 likes

A hand holds a pink container of Anua Brightening Pads with Niacinamide 5 + TXA. The label indicates 60 pads and 210 ML. An overlay bubble highlights 'Anua brightening pads'.
Anua brightening pads
#kbeautyfinds #lemon8challenge #skincare #koreanskincare #lemon8beauty I’ve been using the Anua brightening pads and they are so good I have dry skin and these surprisingly felt really hydrating on my skin. They made my skin look brighter and glowy without feeling too harsh, but I st
Silvana

Silvana

11 likes

💡 5 Genius Ways People Are Using ChatGPT Right Now
✨ @Posh Edition If you’re not using AI to make your life easier and smarter, you’re doing too much the hard way. Here are 5 surprisingly powerful ways women are using ChatGPT right now — plus prompts you can literally copy + paste and go: ⸻ 1. Turn Anything Into a Study Guide 📚 From Yo
POSH🌸

POSH🌸

49 likes

A split image shows North West on the left with long brown hair and a black and silver leather jacket, holding a phone and sunglasses. On the right, Blue Ivy smiles, wearing a black leather jacket with her hair styled in two buns and intricate baby hairs.
Why Are North & Blue Ivy Judged So Differently? 👀
Let’s be real, both North West and Blue Ivy have major style moments, but the way people react to them couldn’t be more opposite 💅🏽 North shows up bold, confident, and experimental, just like her mom Kim, while Blue Ivy keeps it classy and performance-ready, reflecting Beyoncé’s more private, po
Iamshariflack

Iamshariflack

1165 likes

A package of ultra-thin sanitary pads sits on a bathroom counter, with a text overlay stating 'Normalize Women Choosing to Wear Pads and Not Tampons'.
An unwrapped sanitary pad is displayed on a speckled countertop, accompanied by text about receiving judgment for using pads instead of tampons.
Several individually wrapped sanitary pads are shown on a speckled surface, with text explaining a personal preference for pads due to comfort over tampons.
Normalize Women Choosing to Wear Pads and Not Tamp
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gotten side-eyes or comments like “Wait, you still use pads?” — as if it’s something to be embarrassed about. I’ve tried tampons, they’re just not for me. Pads feel comfortable and normal for my body. I think it’s wild how even something as natural as a perio
Michelle G.

Michelle G.

77 likes

Body Hair Is Natural... Right? 🌿👀
Everybody loves saying 'body hair is natural' 🌿 Such a kind, evolved, woke sentence 👏 But let a girl grow chin hair 👀 Now suddenly the room gets very quiet 😶 That is the fake part I cannot stand 💀 The 'accept yourself' speech sounds pretty online 📱 In real life? You get
cribpeau63t

cribpeau63t

2 likes

You won’t be judged here!
Read whatever you want and we will love you for it! 🖤 #books #readers #darkromance #lemon8bookclub
WickedPageTurner

WickedPageTurner

12 likes

You Are Not Above Pretty Privilege
Everyone says they do not care about pretty privilege until a polished woman walks into the room. Then suddenly, people notice. They listen differently. They soften their tone. They assume she is more confident, more valuable, more put together. Is that fair? No. But most social rules a
gonzalezthomas8296

gonzalezthomas8296

0 likes

See more