I am a post op transwoman myself, I completely agree with your observations. I had the somewhat uncommon peritoneal pull through procedure, which used part of the lining of my abdomen to create a self lubricating vagina. It was constructed from the same cell type as each of us had as undifferentiated fetuses, some of which developed into a vagina in cis women. The cell structure did not change by being repositioned to my abdomen in utero. It’s still the same at the microscopic level. While I do not menstruate per se, I do go through an approximate three week cycle of spotting which requires a pantiliner. I often wear one at other times as well to prevent soiling my underwear. Further, the odor of my neo vagina and its feel is the same as that of a natal woman. I have to douche at least once a week to keep the pH in balance. I make regular visits to a gynecologist. In so many ways I am exactly like a cis woman. Do I require sanitary pads? You’re damn right I do.