If you’ve just started your period, the first thing that comes to mind is using a sanitary pad.
They are less complicated and much easier to use than other period products.
Here’s more information about sanitary pads.
What is a sanitary pad?
A sanitary pad or napkin is a thin, narrow piece of absorbent material that absorbs menstrual fluid during menstruation. Pads come in different shapes and sizes with varying absorbing capacities for heavy and light menstrual bleeding days. You will need to experiment with various types of sanitary pads to determine which one best suit your needs.
Why do girls wear sanitary pads when they get their period?
Pad works by sticking it to your underwear to absorb the menstrual flow. There are several period products such as tampons, overnight panties, menstrual cups and more. However, for beginners, pads are considered simple to use than the rest.
Does the shape of the pad matter?
Yes, the shape is the most important factor in selecting a pad. Different pad shapes serve different purposes, such as:
- Regular pads with wings are more secure against your underwear and allow you to move around more comfortably.
- Night-time pads are longer in the back and are used to collect any leakage that may occur while you sleep.
- Pads without wings are effective if you have little to no activity planned.
How to wear a sanitary pad?
Using a pad is simple. Here are a few basic steps on how to wear a sanitary pad:
- Take your pad out of its cover. Ensure that the product has the proper thickness, absorbency, shape, and style.
- Remove the backing paper from the menstrual pad.
- Place it on the crotch or the gusset area of your panty.
- Remove the paper from the pad’s centre.
- Flip the wings open and stick them on either side of the panty.
You can adjust the sanitary pad to an effective position. It shouldn’t ride up your back or cover your front too much. Instead, it should be right underneath to absorb your menstrual blood.
Once your pad has perfectly stuck to your panty, you can wear it for hours without concern.
Are there any practices to follow before and after wearing a pad?
Menstrual hygiene is critical. Some practices to follow before and after wearing a pad include:
- Use intimate hygiene wash or wet wipes to keep your vaginal area clean and dry. If you don’t change your pads on time or maintain menstrual hygiene, it can lead to yeast or bacterial infection.
- Wearing a pad when sitting down is simple than doing so while standing.
- Always wash your hands before and after using a pad to ensure no germs can transfer to your vulva.
- If the pad doesn’t fit your underwear, perform routine checks to ensure there is no staining or leakage.
When to change a sanitary napkin?
Bacteria can accumulate regardless of your menstrual flow. Therefore, changing your napkin every 3 to 4 hours is good hygiene and helps prevent foul odours. This is especially true if you have a busy schedule or are involved in sports.
You should also change the pad if it becomes full or feels wet or uncomfortable to avoid accidental leaks.
How to dispose of a sanitary napkin?
After use, roll your disposable sanitary napkin and wrap it in a newspaper, toilet paper, or the cover given with it and dispose of in a garbage bin. Never flush your napkin down the toilet, as it may clog the drain and cause flooding.
How do I choose the right pad to wear?
The following are the critical factors to consider when selecting the right pad for you:
- Know your periods: Understanding your body and periods is essential before selecting the right pad for your menstrual cycle. Every girl’s period is unique in terms of flow, duration, or symptoms. So, know the kind of sanitary napkins you require.
- Lifestyle: Wear pads based on the nature of your daily activities or activities that coincide with your period days.
- Length and flow: Choose pads based on your flow. On heavy days, use a long-slim pad with a broad hip guard and regular ones on light-flow days.
- Good absorbency: The pad’s absorbency should be the most critical factor when selecting one, as it helps you decide if you need an extra absorbent pad or a regular one. Choose longer, high-absorbency pads that will absorb blood flow without allowing any back-flow during high-flow days. You can even get pads with fragrances to avoid foul odours during your period.
Kotex sanitary pads are comfortable, absorb much more than regular pads, and are infused with green tea, allowing you to go about your daily activities and sleep without worry of leakage or odour.
Take away
One pro tip for girls who have just started their periods is to always carry extra sanitary napkins in your bag, irrespective of whether you have your period date around or not. In the beginning, when periods start, most girls face irregularities in their period cycles and having extra pads can always be a saviour.