Sanitary pads are one of the most common menstrual hygiene products that most women prefer.
Although it is quite popular among women, there are still a lot of doubts and misconceptions about it.
In this article, let’s discuss everything about sanitary pads in detail.
What is a sanitary pad?
A sanitary pad also called a menstrual pad is an absorbent thing stuck to the underwear of a woman which is meant to absorb the blood during menstruation.
Types of Sanitary Pads
The sanitary pads or sanitary napkins are of a few types like:
Size: Sanitary pads are available in various sizes like regular, large, extra larger based on the length and absorption capacity of the pad.
It is better to opt for the best postpartum diapers after delivery as the periods after delivery are very heavy.
Wings/No wings: Sanitary pads are available both with wings and without wings and one can choose it based on their own comfort.
Reusable pads: Washable menstrual pads or cloth pads are other alternatives for regular sanitary napkins available in the market these days.
As the name suggests, the reusable period pads or washable period pads can be washed, sanitised and re-used.
Organic pads: Organic pads are yet another innovation that is sourced from natural ingredients without any harmful chemical layers or fragrance. Organic pads are said to be environmentally friendly.
How to Select a Sanitary pad?
- Based on your Period flow: One of the important things to consider before buying a sanitary pad is the flow. If the flow is normal, a regular pad would suffice. The best pads for heavy flow are the ones that are made specifically for heavy periods.
- Absorption and comfort: Comfort and absorption capacity plays a major role too in choosing the right sanitary pad. Choose a pad that feels super comfortable and leak-proof.
- Adhesive: The glue behind the sanitary pad is what makes it stick to the inner wear. For the pad to stay well through, it is important to choose period pads with good adhesive.
- Quality of the Material Matters: Quality of the pad is what gives it the comfort and absorption capacity. Choose a pad that has no harmful chemicals and is super soft to use.
- Wings or No Wings: It is better to choose a pad with wings as they stick well to the sides of the inner and don’t move easily when compared to pads with no wings.
Unscented: Products with fragrance could cause vaginal issues like itching and irritation. It is a great idea to choose a sanitary pad that is free from artificial fragrance.
How to use a Sanitary Pad?
It is important to wash hands both before and after using a sanitary pad.
Open the wrap: Most sanitary pads are covered with a plastic wrap. Some pads come in paper wraps to dispose the pad after use. Open the wrap and take out the sanitary pad.
Peel the sticker: Sanitary pads usually come with a sticker on the back and the wings that cover the adhesive part of the pad. So, peel the sticker from the back part of the pad first.
Stick the pad: Once you have peeled the sticker from the pad, stick it to the inside of your panties firmly.
Stick the wings: Peel the peel the sticker from the wing and fold it to the front side of your panties. This way, the pad doesn’t move.
Check for comfort: Once the pad is stuck, ensure it is placed well and you feel comfortable while moving.
Save the wrap: Some brands provide sanitary pads in a wrap that can be used to dispose of the pad later. If that’s the case with the brand you buy, ensure to save it for later. If not, always keep a piece of paper or tissue handy.
Make sure to dispose of the wrapper that comes with the pad properly in the dustbin and do not litter it around.
Tip: It is suggested to always wear loose fitted and comfortable clothes during the periods (preferably cotton).
How Often Should I Change my Sanitary Pad?
One of the most important things that everytime should know about sanitary pads is to change them every 3-4 hours.
Dispose the pad: Although sanitary pads can absorb a lot of menstrual fluid and it takes a lot of time for the pad to get fully drenched, it is crucial to change the pad every 3-4 hours even if your flow is low.
This is to avoid any sort of rashes or bacterial growth and to avoid foul smell.
Foul smell during periods is almost inevitable but with a few hygiene practices, it can be controlled to a greater extent.
Tip: It is important to use an anti-chafing or an anti-bacterial cream if you face heavy rashes or chaffing in the thigh region during menstruation.
How to Dispose a Sanitary Pad?
To dispose a sanitary pad:
Wash hands: As always, ensure to start off disposing of the sanitary pads with clean hands.
Prep for disposal: Take off the pad, make sure to keep a piece of paper or a disposable wrap to dispose of the menstrual pad.
Remove the pad: With clean hands, remove or lower your panties and peel off the wings and then the pad from it.
Wrap it up: Ensure to keep a piece of paper or a tissue ready before even starting with removing the pad. Roll the pad into a cylinder and then wrap it up in a piece of paper.
Throw it in the Dustbin: Ensure to throw it in the dustbin properly and do not ever flush the pads into the toilet.
Tip: Always wash and pat dry the vaginal area after disposing of a pad.
Conclusion
There is a never ending debate on whether or not a sanitary pad is healthy to use. But sanitary pads are easy and convenient to use and are easily accessible too.
Ensure to always change the pad every 3 to 4 hours and choose pads that are organic and fragrance free to avoid any vaginal infections.
Healthcare experts suggest opting for cotton menstrual pads as they are super comfortable and do not cause any discomfort to the vagina.
It is important to consult with a gynecologist and have a routine checkup twice a year to ensure your menstrual health.
For consultations with the best gynecologist in Chennai Dr. Deepthi Jammi, Contact 91 7338771733 / +91 7904513421.
Chennai Women’s Clinic is now Jammi Scans
FAQ:
1. Can I reuse a Sanitary Pad?
No. Unless and until you use a re-usable sanitary pads, you shouldn’t reuse them. Even with reusable sanitary pads, it is important to wash, sanitise and dry it well before reusing.
2. Can I swim or exercise while wearing a sanitary pad?
Swimming with a sanitary pad is big No as it tends to absorb the water from the pool causing leakage of blood. Exercising wearing a pad is okay as long as you wear the right pad for your flow and the workout is mild.
3. Can I wear a pad for 12 hours?
You should change your pad every 3 to 4 hours once. You cannot wear a pad for 12 hours as it may lead to vaginal issues.
4. Is it normal to use 5 pads a day?
Yes. It is normal for some women to use 5 pads a day especially on the first 2 days of the menstrual cycle. But if you are cornered about your flow, ensure to consult with a gynecologist.
5. Are sanitary pads healthy or unhealthy?
Although sanitary pads are easy to use and dispose of, there are quite a few disadvantages. Pads with heavy fragrance can cause vaginal infections. On the whole, it is better to use an organic pad with no fragrance and change the pad every 3 to 4 hours.
