A sanitary pad is an absorbent product designed to collect menstrual fluid. These products manage menstrual flow, provide protection against leakage, and help maintain personal hygiene. Pads are engineered to absorb liquid and lock it away from the surface, but they possess a finite capacity and a limited effective lifespan. Exceeding the recommended period of wear compromises the pad’s function and creates an environment that shifts from protective to problematic.
Skin Irritation and Discomfort
Prolonged use of a single sanitary pad increases the risk of localized skin reactions, often referred to as “pad rash.” This irritation arises from both mechanical and chemical factors acting on the delicate skin. Mechanical irritation occurs when the pad shifts against the skin during movement, causing friction and chafing. This rubbing can lead to micro-abrasions and a breakdown of the skin barrier, resulting in redness and soreness.
The pad traps heat and moisture from menstrual fluid and perspiration against the skin. This damp, warm microclimate causes the skin to become over-hydrated, a process known as maceration. Macerated skin is weaker and highly susceptible to physical damage. The breakdown of menstrual blood on the pad’s surface also contributes to discomfort by creating an unpleasant odor, which is a byproduct of bacterial activity.
Chemical irritation, or contact dermatitis, can also develop from extended contact with the pad’s components. Pads are constructed from various materials, including polyolefins, adhesives, and absorbent gels, which can provoke a reaction in sensitive individuals. Many pads contain fragrances or dyes intended to mask odor, but these additives themselves can act as irritants.
Microbial Growth and Infection Risk
Wearing a pad for an extended duration creates a thriving environment for microbial proliferation. Menstrual discharge is a nutrient-rich mixture of blood, mucus, and tissue, providing a food source for microorganisms. When this material remains in contact with the pad’s surface and the body’s heat, it fosters rapid growth of bacteria and fungi.
The vagina maintains a naturally acidic environment, which is maintained by beneficial Lactobacilli bacteria. When a pad is saturated and worn for too long, the pH of the external genital area is disrupted, promoting an overgrowth of other organisms. This imbalance increases the risk of common infections, such as Candidiasis (a yeast infection) and Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), where the normal vaginal flora is replaced by excessive bacterial species.
Infections are caused by the overgrowth and migration of existing flora. Inadequate hygiene can also increase the risk of pathogens moving to the urinary tract, potentially causing a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI). Although poor menstrual hygiene is sometimes associated with Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), the risk of developing TSS from wearing an external sanitary pad is negligible. TSS is overwhelmingly linked to the prolonged use of internal menstrual products, such as high-absorbency tampons.
Recommended Changing Frequency and Hygiene Practices
To mitigate the risks of skin irritation and infection, consistently changing a sanitary pad at the recommended intervals is necessary. The standard guideline advises changing a pad every three to four hours, regardless of the heaviness of the flow. Even if the pad does not appear saturated, it should be changed to eliminate the buildup of moisture and bacteria. Never wear a single pad for longer than six hours during the day, or eight hours for overnight use.
Maintaining hygiene during changes is important. Key practices include:
- Gently cleansing the genital area with plain water to remove residual menstrual fluid.
- Wiping from front to back to prevent the transfer of anal bacteria toward the vagina and urethra.
- Wrapping the used pad tightly in its new wrapper, toilet paper, or a small bag before placing it in a waste bin.
- Never flushing sanitary pads down the toilet, as they are not designed to break down in plumbing systems.
Selecting pads made with breathable materials and avoiding products with fragrances can further reduce the risk of trapped moisture and contact dermatitis.