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Ask Pinkie

Getting your period is stressfull.
Asking about it doesn’t have to be.

Ask Pinkie® About Pads

Why should I use pinkie pads?

Pinkie offers toxin-free ORGANIC period pads for tweens and teens. Our pads are the ONLY pads that come enclosed in one-of-a-kind baggies for easy use and convenient disposal.

We meticulously designed our pads based on youth-sized underwear.

Our leak-free pads are the only small-sized period pads made from 100% organic cotton top-sheets in the U.S.!

How do I use a pad?

One of our interns (age 15) created a video to show you how to use a pad! Watch it here!

What are pinkie pads made of?

Pinkie pads are made of 100% organic cotton topsheets — this is the real stuff for a hypoallergenic, irritation-free experience. The next layer in our pads is a super absorbent, plant-based Japanese polymer core that works as the absorbent material. Then, we have a PE waterproof backsheet to prevent leaks. We also use non-toxic adhesive on our pads and wings to keep the pads securely in place. All of our pads are bleach-free, dye-free, toxin-free, chlorine-free and come with zero drama!

How should I dispose of pinkie pads?

We literally invented the best way to dispose of your used pad!
Pinkie’s one-of-a-kind baggies!

After you peel off the used pads from your underwear – simply insert it back into our slip-out baggie. You can use the baggie from the new replacement pad or save the last pad’s baggie in your pocket, bag or bathroom. Our baggies are recyclable and our pads. Please don’t put the pads in the compost bin – compost is for natural healthy soil and human bodily fluids should not be mixed into your compost.

Where are pinkie pads made?

Our pads are produced in Guangdong City, China with 100% organic cotton. Most of our cotton is grown in Georgia, USA and Texas, USA. The pads are hypoallergenic, dye and toxin free, fragrance-free and FDA-registered and GOTS certified among other certifications.

Where can I buy Pinkie Pads?

Pinkie pads are now available in 5000 stores around the country including CVS, Walmart and Target as well as Amazon.com. Use our store locator to find the closest store to you.

How absorbent are pinkie pads?

Our Mini pads are light absorbency BUT can still hold up to 30ml of liquid (2 tampons worth). Our Small pads are medium absorbency and can hold up to 40ml of liquid (3 tampons worth) and our Regular pads are heavy absorbency and can hold up to 80ml of liquid for a leak-free experience.

Check out our flow guide!

Are Pinkie pads organic?

Pinkie’s pads are made with 100% certified organic cotton top-sheets (GOTS certified) by our trusted and committed manufacturing partner based in Jiangmen, Guangdong City, China. We have personally visited our manufacturer in China and verified first-hand their commitment to the development and production of natural, high-quality and safe personal hygiene products.

Are Pinkie pads safe to use?

We know you’ve seen the recent news on health risks with tampons, we want to reiterate that Pinkie’s pads are safe and all results below have been verified by Intertek – a 3rd party independent agency. Pinkie’s pads do not contain any harmful ingredients such as:

  • Fluorescent agents
  • Bleach & Dyes
  • PFAs
  • Titanium Dioxide

Ask Pinkie® About Tampons

Is it normal to feel nervous about using a tampon?

Totally! Many girls and young people feel unsure at first. Trying something new with your body takes courage. There’s no rush. Start when you feel ready.

Will it hurt to put in a tampon?

It might feel a little weird or uncomfortable at first, but it shouldn’t hurt. The trick is to relax your muscles and try a slim, light-absorbency tampon. Also, trying a tampon for the first time on a heavy flow day can help insertion because blood can act as a natural lubricant. If your tampon hurts or you can feel it, it might not be in the right spot. Breathe deeply and try again later.

How do I know if it’s in correctly?

If you can’t feel it, it’s in correctly! You should be able to walk, sit, and move around without noticing it. If it feels uncomfortable or like it’s falling out, you may need to adjust or re-insert it.

Can a tampon get stuck or lost inside me?

Nope! Your vagina is like a tunnel with a closed end – the tampon has nowhere to go. The string stays outside your body so you can pull it out easily. It might feel tricky at first, but it gets easier every time.

How often should I change my tampon?

Change your tampon every 4–6 hours and never wear one longer than 8 hours. On heavier days, you might need to change it more often. Using the right absorbency for your flow is important for comfort and safety. When you see blood starting to seep down the top of the tampon string, it may be time to change it.

Can I swim with a tampon in?

Yes! That’s one of the biggest perks of tampons. Just insert a fresh one before you hit the pool, beach, or water park. Pads can’t go swimming, but tampons are water-friendly.

Can I sleep overnight with a tampon in?

It is preferable to avoid using tampons overnight and to use a Pinkie overnight pad instead to stay safe and comfy.

Can I pee with a tampon in?

Yes! Your pee comes out of a different opening. You can go to the bathroom just like usual. If you like, just move the string to the side so it stays dry.

I tried and couldn’t get it in. Am I doing something wrong?

Not at all! Learning to use tampons takes practice. Try when you’re relaxed (like after a warm shower), use a mirror to understand your body better, and don’t stress. Pads are always a great option too. Just do whatever makes you feel comfortable.

How do I throw away a tampon?

Wrap it in toilet paper and toss it in the trash. Never flush tampons since they can clog pipes and harm the environment. You can also use the tampon wrapper to discreetly dispose of the applicator.

What if I forget I’m wearing one?

Set a reminder on your phone or write it in your planner when you put one in. Or put a bracelet or special hair tie on your wrist that you only wear when you have a tampon in. Come up with something unique to you! If it’s been more than 8 hours, remove it right away. If you’re ever unsure, talk to a trusted adult or healthcare provider.

Is it okay to use tampons every day of my period?

Yes, as long as you use the right absorbency and follow all safety steps (change it often, never go over 8 hours). Some people use tampons for active days and pads for overnight.

Can I use a tampon if I'm just starting my period?

Yes! If you’re comfortable, you can try a Light tampon even on your first period. But if you’re unsure, starting with pads is totally fine too. You can try tampons whenever you feel ready.

Help! I can’t find my tampon string!

Sometimes the string can get hidden or tucked up inside by accident. Don’t panic! Peeing can sometimes make the string fall back down, as can taking a bath. You can also sit down, relax your muscles, and gently use clean fingers to feel around if necessary. If you still can’t find it, talk to a trusted adult or healthcare provider.

What if I get pee or poop on the string?

It happens and it’s no big deal! Just move the string to the front when you pee or poop to keep it clean. If it gets messy, just change your tampon and start fresh.

Why is it so hard to get it out sometimes?

If your tampon feels stuck, it might not be ready to come out yet since it hasn’t absorbed enough blood. You can wait a little longer, or next time use a lighter absorbency. Don’t tug too hard, be gentle and breathe.

What if the tampon falls out when I pee or walk?

If your tampon falls out, it may not have been in far enough. A correctly placed tampon should stay in no matter what you’re doing. Try reinserting a fresh one just a little further.

What is #theMonthly?

Pinkie #theMonthly is a trusted space for moms and tweens navigating periods together. It is a reliable resource for understanding first periods, changing bodies, and growing independence, while creating a safe, smart, judgment-free community where questions are welcome.

#theMonthly delivers real tips, practical guidance, and confidence-building content that helps tweens feel informed and empowered.

It is also a fun insider membership to Pinkie’s world, featuring updates, education, special surprises, and occasional deals and limited offers.

How can I join #theMonthly?

Have a different question? Ask Pinkie here and we will get back to you personally.