What about wearing thinkx, the "period-proof underwear?" https://www.shethinx.com/
No idea about the pad problem, but the friend reading over my shoulder is insisting that I tell you to make sure that they tested your thyroid function. Her mom had ludicrously heavy periods and excruciating cramps that turned out to be from hypothyroidism.
You could look into a menstrual cup. It may have the same (perfectly valid!) problems as tampons, but I wanted to toss it out there in case it might work... or heck if someone else comes here with the same question.
I would also recommend checking out Precious Stars Pads on youtube.... she is kinda a period guru if you can believe that exists. But anyway you may be able to find some ideas. I know she did a video modeling many types of reusable pads worn in dance leotards for instance. So that could be a starting point.
I would totally recommend a menstrual cup! Not just for skating, but honestly just regular life. Since I got mine, I've never looked back. Plus, the savings are quite substantial as a cup is good for several YEARS.
Have you tried a menstrual cup? I think a pad moves too much... If you have a heavy period an accident can occur. There’s also menstrual panties, I’m not sure how/if it works though and they are quite expensive, but it might be worth the investment if it’s going to solve the problem.
As someone mentioned here, there are ultra thin pads that don’t show at all. I don’t know where you’re from but Always has an ultra thin line, maybe you can find it close to you, it is really great. But as I’ve said, since you’ll be moving so much I don’t know how reliable it will be. The greatest option would really be something like a tampon or even better the menstrual cup.
What about wearing thinkx, the "period-proof underwear?" https://www.shethinx.com/
If your period is very heavy, the menstrual underwear won't be enough. However, the overnight, ultra thin Always pads absolutely work for me. You can't see them at all under skating tights and a skating dress, and they are extra long, and they do not move. You'd wear underwear with the pad attached, then tights, then the dress. No one will know. These are the ultra thin foam ones: Always Infinity Extra Heavy Overnight Pads with Flex Foam:
https://always.com/en-us/shop-produ...-size-5-extra-heavy-overnight-pads-with-wings
They make no sound.
You could try period disposable panties as well —they have a built-in pad that lasts like 12 hours, and they're comfortable. Wearing them under the dress could do the trick.
As others have mentioned above, you could try a combination of the period underwear (Thinx, PantyProp, others) with a thin pad. Make sure the underwear is nice and snug so that it is right up against your body to keep the pad in place. I believe that the PantyProp brand has pads that you buy that go into the gusset of the panties to keep in there securely. That could be a solution. Otherwise, I also agree with the ultra-thin Always pads (I have not heard of the other brand mentioned but I'm intrigued!)
I feel your (period) pain - I have a similar issue and there were times when adult diapers were calling my name.
I did the trick where you take birth control pills continuously and it was great....until I had to stop due to other health concerns, so I get that it may not be a viable option (and it is a longer term solution anyway).
If you are concerned about any period underwear peeking through, you could try sewing it into the costume (might not be a practical solution if you can't wash your dress though).
I am also curious if any gymnasts out there could share their solutions!
These are good suggestions. I use a menstrual cup, but I'm currently 7 months pregnant and that obviously won't be an option for a while after I give birth. The idea of doing flying spins with a pad on already freaks me out!! But I have to do something in order to skate during the postpartum days, and will be trying out some of these suggestions. Thankfully I won't be competing any time soon!
Now that this has some traction and answers.
I want to toss out that maybe we should rethink the "women only angle" on this. I don't think there is any shame or harm in learning about human biology and such even if you don't share the anatomy. As long as men can come here and be respectful and polite (which I do think the men here can do) there is nothing wrong with them being here, there is nothing wrong with them learning. The OPs question was perfection practical and legitimate and I don't think needed the warnings.
I also want to tack on that some men might have reason to be here and ask similar questions. Basically let's not forget the single dads out there. The USA's own Alyssa Liu is being raised by a single dad and I doubt that she is alone. I kinda feel like single dads should be welcomed with open arms when trying to help their daughters with questions like this.
I haven't tried the menstrual cup but since so many people have recommended it here, I'm going to have to look into it! I have worn the Always thin pads and I do like those. As far as it shifting around, one of the contributors reminded me that I'll have tights on, which I totally forgot about so I think that will help it from shifting too much. Thank you.
I would definitely look into it. I wasn't a skater yet in my pre-cup days, but I was in college as a ballet major (so I get the tights and leo/performance concerns all too well), and if I had worked up the courage to try it instead of being scared of it for years I would have saved myself SO much trouble and some very embarrassing events. I'm not exaggerating at all when I say it's changed my life. I'd recommend checking out the Livejournal menstrual cup page for information before you buy, if you decide to go that way, since not all cups fit the same way (also there can be a learning curve and it's better to be prepared).
But if that doesn't work, I had success with the Always pads! They're pretty good.
edit: just realized I forgot to read page 3 before I posted, so I see the Always are giving you some issues... never mind that then. I'll third the thinx suggestion though! I've heard good things about them although I've never tried them.