Ugh...what a misery. I finished having periods when I was 54 (I'm 57), but I still have either post-menopause symptoms and/or medication side effects. I sweat. My back, under my boobs, armpits, and yes..."down there." I have used antiperspirant - to no avail. I don't sweat quite as heavily as you do (I feel so bad for you!), but I sweat plenty. We've been having oddly warm weather (70 degree days) - but it's not hot. Yet I turn my car a/c on when I drive because I'm so overheated and sweaty. For me the sweat smells like...sweat. I'm so self-conscious. Showering too much dries the heck out of my skin, so that's not entirely an answer. Doesn't help much, anyway. 1/2 hour after the shower I'm sweating again.
Your idea of using pads is actually clever. I've never thought of it.
I wish I has some advice for you. All I can say is that you're not alone. If any answers come my way, I'll certainly share them with you. The sweating is sooo unpleasant.