From period panties to the new menstrual cups, there are so many products to help you during your periods that you are spoilt for choice. However, women pads are the most commonly used menstrual products and it seems, would remain so for good reasons. So, if you are reading this article, chances are you are new to this and need help with pads. Fret not. We are here to help you. Keep on reading to know just how to use sanitary pads and to get some very useful tips on the same.
What is a Sanitary Pad and How to Choose One
A sanitary napkin, also known as a sanitary pad or a menstrual pad is a simple pad made of absorbent material which is used to soak up menstrual blood. You can find many different pads for periods online or in any pharmacy. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes and absorbing capacities. You will have to experiment to determine which one suits you the best.
How to Use a Sanitary Pad
While some period products such as a menstrual cup or tampon may be too intimidating to use, especially for beginners, you can very easily use a pad. Just follow these simple instructions to get started.
Remove the paper at the back of the pad to uncover its sticky side
Place the pad on the gusset or the crotch area of your panty, sticky side down
Flip open the wings of the pad, remove their backing paper and stick them around the panty’s sides
How to Remove and Dispose of Pads
Removing a pad is very easy. Just peel off the used napkin from your panty, wrap it up in toilet paper or the wrapper of a new pad that you may be using now, and throw it in the garbage. Do not flush it as it can potentially clog your toilet.
Benefits of Using Sanitary Pads
- They are fairly easy to use and remove
- They are quite discreet and can be carried in your purse
- They are quite affordable compared to tampons price
- They are very easily available in the market
Some Useful Tips on Using a Pad
Choose Well
You will find many different women pads designed for different needs. While a panty liner is used to avoid staining before the actual periods begin, a heavy flow or one with a wider back is used for protection from longer night flow. So, pick one which is as per your requirement.
Buy in Bulk
Once you know how heavy or light your menstrual flow is and what kind of pads you need, you can buy a large pack. This will serve two purposes, you will always have a pad at hand in times of emergency and you will also save some money as the per unit cost is less in larger packs than in smaller ones. You can also check panty liners price before shelling out money to enjoy some discounts online.
Position Correctly
Position the pad inside the panty in such a way that it is neither riding up your buttocks nor is too high up in the front. It should be exactly beneath your vagina so that it can catch all the menstrual blood and avoid staining. This can be best done if you sit down, pull up the panty knee-high and then stick the pad inside.
Change On Time
While you can decide when you want to change your napkin, it is advised that it should not be kept for more than 4 to 5 hours. If you do not change your pads regularly or maintain proper hygiene then it can cause yeast infection.
Clothing
Wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothes as they will help you relax during the bloating and discomfort caused by menstruation. Also, make sure you wear comfy and breathable cotton panties and completely avoid wearing lacy thongs etc. During this time you can also wear double panties to avoid staining.
Sleeping
Sleeping on your side helps to ease your pain a little and also minimizes the chance of staining
Prepare for Emergencies
You should carry extra pads with you whenever you are on your periods or when they are nearing. However, when you do not have one on you and can't find any nearby, you can use layers of tissues or toilet paper until you get a real pad.