A menstrual pad with wings is a common and highly effective product designed to manage menstrual flow by adhering securely to the gusset of underwear. The main body of the pad contains an absorbent core, typically made of cellulose pulp and superabsorbent polymers, which quickly draws fluid away from the skin. The distinguishing feature is the presence of flexible flaps, or “wings,” that fold over the edges of the underwear fabric. These wings are coated with a mild adhesive to anchor the pad in place, preventing shifting, bunching, or folding during movement. This added stability ensures the absorbent material remains correctly positioned to maximize coverage and prevent leaks along the sides.
Preparing the Pad and Underwear
Before applying a pad, begin with proper hand hygiene, washing with soap and water to minimize the transfer of bacteria. Once hands are clean, remove the fresh pad from its outer protective wrapper, which is often a plastic or paper sleeve. Keep this outer wrapper aside, as it will be useful for later disposal of the used pad.
Identify the two sides of the pad: the soft, absorbent surface that faces the body and the adhesive backing that secures to the underwear. Most disposable pads have a central paper strip covering the main adhesive section, as well as smaller strips protecting the adhesive on the wings. Peel away the long, central paper backing, exposing the primary adhesive that will hold the pad to the fabric.
The underwear chosen should preferably be a brief or boxer style with a wider crotch area, known as the gusset, to provide a stable foundation. Ensure the underwear is smooth and unwrinkled in the gusset area before placement to prevent the pad from adhering to creases, which could cause misalignment or bunching during wear. The wings should remain folded inward, keeping their adhesive strips covered, until the main body of the pad is positioned correctly.
Precise Positioning and Securing the Wings
The core of the application process involves accurately centering the main absorbent body of the pad onto the fabric gusset of the underwear. Place the pad lengthwise, ensuring it covers the area that aligns with the vulva, and press the exposed adhesive firmly onto the fabric. The pad should be straight, avoiding any twisting or angling, and positioned both front-to-back and side-to-side to cover the necessary area.
Once the main body is secure, the wings are released to complete the anchoring process. Peel the paper backing from one wing, exposing its adhesive surface, and fold the wing outward and downward. The wing should wrap around the edge of the underwear gusset and adhere smoothly to the underside of the fabric. Repeat this step for the second wing on the opposite side, ensuring both wings are taut but not overly stretched.
Properly securing the wings creates a three-point adherence system—the central adhesive strip and the two wings—which reduces the potential for movement or shifting. If the pad feels slightly off-center or uncomfortable after the initial placement, gently unstick the main body and reposition it before pressing the wings down for their final set. This method ensures the pad remains aligned with the body’s contours, maintaining continuous protection during activity.
Safe Removal and Hygienic Disposal
When the pad needs changing, begin by carefully peeling the wings away from the underside of the underwear fabric. Gently unstick the main body of the pad, pulling it away from the fabric from one end to avoid tearing the pad or stretching the underwear. Once detached, keep the soiled, absorbent side facing upward to prevent contact with clean surfaces.
To prepare the used pad for disposal, roll it up tightly into a compact cylinder, starting from one end. The goal is to contain the soiled surfaces within the roll, leaving the less-soiled backing or the adhesive side facing outward. Take the protective wrapper from the fresh pad, or use toilet paper or tissue, and wrap it securely around the rolled pad to contain odor and conceal the contents.
The wrapped pad must be placed in a designated waste receptacle, such as a trash bin or sanitary disposal unit. Never flush a used pad down the toilet, as the materials and super-absorbent polymers found in the pad’s core do not break down in water. Flushing can cause severe plumbing blockages and damage to sewage infrastructure. After disposing of the wrapped pad, immediately wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to maintain hygiene.