It's not gross. Some women can't or don't want to wear them. It's a personal choice that she's free to make.

It's much more hygienic than tampons. Tampons are breeding grounds for bacteria.

I like pads. They only feel weird for the first few minutes.

Some people can't use tampons. Others don't want to. Either way, it's none of your damn business.

What OP wears as a feminine hygiene product is beside the point. But while we're on the subject, I'd like to point out that not all women like tampons. They're very uncomfortable for some, plus there's always the horror stories of the string getting pulled on by mistake, dislodging the thing. You think pads are like sitting in diapers of your own blood? Well, by that argument, tampons are like having a ***** covered in blood shoved up your cooch. I'll take the pads, thanks. Now, on to the topic - I have never heard of anyone hiding presents in the bathroom before. I guess they figure no one will look there. OP, did you know you were due to start your period? If so, you should have brought some pads with you. I assume you didn't because it sounds like you didn't know where they were located in the bathroom. Or, if you're still living with them, couldn't you have used a different bathroom? You said it was your parents' bathroom; what about another one? So many unanswered questions here.

@98: You're missing one very obvious question. Why on earth did she not lock the bathroom door???