Menstrual pads, also known as sanitary napkins, are absorbent products used to manage menstruation. They secure inside underwear, providing a barrier against fluid leakage and maintaining hygiene. Learning the proper technique for pad placement ensures maximum comfort and protection. This guide provides clear instructions for selecting, applying, and disposing of a menstrual pad.
Selecting the Right Pad
Choosing the correct type of pad is necessary to match the product’s features to the wearer’s needs. Absorbency is a primary consideration, typically labeled as light, regular, or heavy. This labeling corresponds to the amount of fluid the pad can wick and lock away. Matching the absorbency level to the flow intensity prevents premature saturation during heavier days and avoids unnecessary bulk during lighter spotting.
The length of the pad is another important variable. Longer options provide greater coverage, especially toward the back, which is beneficial for overnight use or high-volume flow days. Many pads also feature adhesive flaps, commonly called wings, that fold over the edges of the underwear gusset. Wings anchor the pad more firmly, minimizing shifting and bunching during movement. Selecting the appropriate combination of absorbency, length, and wings sets the stage for a successful application.
Step-by-Step Guide to Application
Applying the menstrual pad begins by unwrapping the product. Keep the outer plastic wrapper intact, as this material will be repurposed later for hygienic disposal. Next, expose the main adhesive strip running along the underside. This is achieved by peeling away the protective backing paper, which should be discarded immediately.
Press the exposed adhesive side directly onto the fabric of the underwear gusset, which is the narrow, reinforced center panel. Proper positioning is necessary for effective protection. The pad should be centered both laterally and longitudinally. Centering the pad too far forward or backward reduces the coverage area, potentially leading to leaks.
The pad’s position should align with the area where the menstrual fluid is released, typically slightly toward the rear of the gusset. If the pad includes wings, they must be addressed after the main body is secured. Each wing has a small piece of backing paper covering a secondary adhesive strip.
Peel the backing paper off the wings one at a time, exposing the adhesive surface. Fold the wings smoothly and firmly around the underside of the underwear gusset fabric. This folding action locks the pad into place, preventing horizontal movement. A final check ensures the pad is flat, smooth, and securely adhered without any creases that could compromise its function.
Proper Removal and Disposal
Knowing when to change a pad is important, as saturation impacts both hygiene and effectiveness. Changing a pad every three to five hours is suggested, regardless of the flow, to prevent bacterial growth and maintain comfort. During heavy flow days, changing may be necessary more frequently, perhaps every two hours, to manage volume and prevent overflow.
Removal should be a clean, quick process. Gently peel the pad away from the underwear fabric, starting from one end. The used pad must then be prepared for disposal to contain the fluid and odor. Roll or fold the pad tightly, with the soiled side facing inward, and secure the bundle using the adhesive strip or the wings.
The secured, rolled pad should be wrapped completely inside its original plastic wrapper. Several layers of toilet paper can be used as an alternative covering. Always place the wrapped pad directly into a trash receptacle. Menstrual pads must never be flushed down a toilet, as they can cause plumbing obstructions. The final step after disposal is washing hands thoroughly with soap and water.