The feeling of a menstrual pad shifting or detaching is a common and frustrating experience that compromises comfort and protection. This problem stems from a complex interaction between the pad’s specialized adhesive, the underwear fabric, and environmental conditions. Understanding why the pad fails to stay put is the first step toward reliable leak protection. The solution often lies in adjusting product choices and application techniques to better suit the physics of adhesion.
How Underwear Material Interferes with Adhesion
The fabric of the undergarment is frequently the main factor behind adhesion failure because the pad’s adhesive strip relies on a compatible surface for a strong bond. Natural fibers like cotton are the best choice because their textured, woven surface provides countless small points for the pressure-sensitive adhesive to grip. This microscopic roughness creates the friction necessary to keep the pad securely in place during movement.
Underwear made from smooth, synthetic materials, such as nylon, lycra, silk, or satin, can actively repel the pad’s adhesive. These fabrics have a lower surface energy and a smoother fiber structure, resulting in less friction and a reduced contact area for the adhesive to bond effectively. The pad is essentially trying to stick to a slick surface, making it prone to sliding and bunching up during physical activity.
Beyond the fiber type, certain fabric treatments can also weaken the adhesive’s hold. Finishes applied to make a garment feel softer or look shinier, and the dyes used to color the fabric, can interfere with bonding. Additionally, any moisture, such as perspiration or body oils, on the fabric’s surface acts as a barrier. This prevents the adhesive from forming a direct and stable connection with the fibers.
When the Pad Itself is the Problem
The fault is not always with the underwear, as issues originating with the pad itself can also lead to poor adherence. The adhesive’s performance is highly sensitive to the conditions under which the product is stored. Pads kept in high-humidity environments, such as a bathroom cabinet, may experience premature degradation of the adhesive polymers.
Temperature extremes can also compromise the integrity of the adhesive layer. Exposure to low temperatures causes the glue to lose flexibility and stickiness. Conversely, excessive heat can make the adhesive too soft or tacky, sometimes causing it to stick aggressively and tear upon removal. Either scenario results in a weaker bond to the fabric during wear.
Another common issue is a mismatch between the pad’s size and the style of the underwear. Pads require a certain width of fabric, known as the gusset, to adhere properly and maintain their intended shape. Using a standard-width pad on underwear with a narrow gusset, such as a thong, causes the pad to fold or compress. This prevents the adhesive from lying flat and securing the pad effectively.
Solutions for Better Adhesion and Security
A successful application begins with ensuring the underwear is clean and completely dry to prevent moisture or residue from undermining the adhesive bond. Choosing underwear with a snug fit is recommended, as the gentle compression helps keep the pad pressed against the body. This further stabilizes its position.
Selecting 100% cotton underwear during a period is the most reliable strategy, as the natural texture offers the best grip for the adhesive strip. Once the protective backing is peeled off, position the pad precisely in the center of the gusset. Firmly press it down with the palm of the hand for several seconds.
If the pad has wings, remove the protective film completely before wrapping them securely around the underside of the fabric. For those who prefer challenging fabrics or find that a particular style consistently fails, specialized period underwear is a helpful alternative.