A sanitary pad is a rectangular piece of absorbent material worn inside underwear to collect and absorb menstrual fluid. Understanding the correct placement and components ensures maximum comfort and protection against leaks. This guide provides a straightforward process for new users to correctly apply and manage this hygiene product.
Identifying Pad Components
The top layer, which sits against the body, is typically a soft, non-woven fabric engineered for rapid fluid absorption and a dry feel. This surface allows menstrual flow to pass quickly into the core while minimizing contact with the skin.
The central part contains the absorbent core, often composed of materials like cotton, cellulose, or super-absorbent polymers. This core is backed by a moisture-proof layer that prevents the collected fluid from soaking through to the garment.
On the underside, a long strip of adhesive backing is covered by a peel-off paper strip for protection. Many pads also feature two adhesive flaps, called wings, which extend outward. These components secure the pad firmly in place within the undergarment.
Step-by-Step Application
Begin by washing your hands thoroughly before handling the pad to maintain hygiene. Unfold the pad and remove the protective paper backing from the central adhesive strip. This sticky surface anchors the pad to the fabric of your underwear.
Pull down your underwear and orient the pad so the adhesive side faces the garment fabric. Center the pad lengthwise within the narrowest section of the underwear, the crotch panel. Press the central adhesive firmly against the fabric to create a strong initial bond.
Correct placement involves aligning the pad so that its absorbent center sits directly beneath the vaginal opening, where the menstrual flow originates. This usually means positioning the pad slightly more toward the posterior than the anterior, especially for moderate or heavy flow. Gravity tends to pool fluid toward the back when a person is sitting or lying down, requiring this slight rearward adjustment.
If the pad is placed too far forward, flow may miss the absorbent core entirely, leading to leaks near the front waistband. Conversely, if it is too far back, the front section may crumple and rub uncomfortably against the pubic area. The ideal position ensures the middle third of the pad captures the majority of the fluid.
If your pad has wings, remove the separate paper backing from the adhesive on each flap once the body of the pad is secured. Wrap one wing up and over the edge of the underwear crotch panel, pressing the adhesive firmly onto the opposite side of the fabric. Repeat this process with the second wing, ensuring the fabric is smooth and the pad does not bunch up.
Once secured, pull the underwear back into place and move slightly to ensure the pad feels comfortable and remains flat against the body. A properly applied pad should not shift during movement and should cover the area from the base of the pubic bone to the lower gluteal cleft.
Removing and Disposing of Used Pads
When it is time to change the pad, which is typically recommended every four to six hours depending on the flow, gently peel it away from the underwear fabric. Avoid tugging sharply to prevent tearing the undergarment.
To prepare for disposal, fold the used pad tightly, ensuring the soiled absorbent side is folded inward upon itself. This containment minimizes any visual exposure of the collected fluid.
Wrap the folded pad securely, ideally using the wrapper from the new pad or a few sheets of toilet paper. This step seals the waste and helps maintain sanitation in the disposal bin. Place the wrapped pad into a designated waste receptacle, such as a lined trash can.
Sanitary pads are not designed to break down in water and must never be flushed down a toilet, as they can cause significant plumbing blockages. Conclude the process by washing your hands with soap and water.