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Barbara Bush Children's Hospital

The Barbara Bush Children's Hospital
At Maine Medical Center

22 Bramhall Street
Portland, Maine 04102-3175
www.bbch.org


Should I Use Scented or Unscented Pads and Tampons?

I Just Started Getting My Period. Should I Use Scented or Unscented Pads and Tampons?

Unscented is best because the chemicals used in scented period products can cause irritation. Also, there's no need to mask the natural odors that happen. In most cases, any odor is mild and doesn't smell bad.

If you do notice a smell that seems wrong or bad to you, talk to your doctor about it. Some odors are signs of infections.

Medically reviewed by: KidsHealth Medical Experts
Date reviewed: October 2023