compresa
/komˈpɾesa/
The English word "maxipad" is compresa in Spanish.
compresa refers to an absorbent pad worn by women to soak up menstrual flow. Note that in other contexts, this word can also mean a medical compress.
Which one should you use?
While compresa is the most common term for a sanitary pad, it is also used to describe a medical compress.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, compresa is widely used to refer to a maxipad. In Argentina, toallita íntima is an informal way to refer to a maxipad.
How do you pronounce it?
/komˈpɾesa/
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, women may use the phrase estoy en mis días to avoid saying compresa or mentioning menstruation directly.
- If you use the word compresa in a pharmacy in Mexico, the clerk might assume you are looking for a medical dressing for an injury rather than feminine hygiene products.
- In many Latin American countries, you might hear the term toalla sanitaria instead of compresa, which translates literally to 'sanitary towel'.
Examples in context
- Disculpe, ¿dónde puedo encontrar compresas?Excuse me, where can I find maxipads?
- Necesito una compresa.I need a sanitary pad.
- ¿Tienes una compresa que me prestes?Do you have a pad you can lend me?
- Compré una caja de compresas para el viaje.I bought a box of pads for the trip.
Example conversation
Elena is feeling unwell while they are out shopping.
- Daniel¿Te encuentras bien, Elena?Are you feeling okay, Elena?
- ElenaNo, me duele un poco el vientre.No, my stomach hurts a little.
- Daniel¿Necesitas que compre una compresa en la farmacia?Do you need me to buy a pad at the pharmacy?
- ElenaSí, por favor, eso me ayudaría mucho.Yes, please, that would help me a lot.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry compresa, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
