Wearing a sanitary pad correctly can make a big difference in how comfortable and confident you feel throughout your period. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or looking to refresh your knowledge, these simple steps will help you master how to wear pad properly. You can also learn more about sanitary napkins if you want a deeper dive into product types and other tips.

1. Choose the Right Pad

Pads come in different lengths, thicknesses, and absorbency levels. If you have a heavy flow or plan to wear the pad overnight, choose a longer or extra-absorbent variant. For a lighter flow or daytime use, you can opt for a slimmer version.

Key Points:

• Heavy Flow: Look for “XL,” “XXL,” or “Overnight” pads.
• Moderate Flow: Regular-sized pads usually suffice.
• Light Flow: You can use a thin pad or a pantyliner.

2. Prepare Your Underwear

Make sure you’re wearing well-fitting, comfortable underwear—preferably made of breathable fabric like cotton. This helps the pad stick firmly and reduces the risk of shifting or leaks.

Tips:

• Check that your underwear isn’t too loose.
• Avoid wearing new or expensive underwear for the first try, just in case of leaks.

3. Unwrap and Position the Pad

Remove the pad from its packaging and unfold it. Most pads have an adhesive strip on the back; peel off the protective layer to expose it.

How to Do It:

1. Adhesive Side Down: Place the sticky part against the center of your underwear’s crotch area.
2. Align Properly: For longer pads, ensure the pad extends slightly more towards the back if you plan to sit or lie down for a long time.
3. Wings (If Any): Peel off the paper backing from the wings and fold them around the sides of your underwear to secure the pad in place.

4. Adjust for Comfort

Once the pad is in position, adjust it so it covers the area where blood typically flows the most. The goal is to have full coverage with no portion of the pad bunching up or hanging out of your underwear.

Check Points:

• Make sure the pad feels snug but not overly tight.
• Smooth out any wrinkles to prevent leaking or discomfort.

5. Change Regularly

Changing your pad every 4–6 hours, or as needed, is crucial for hygiene and to avoid odor or irritation. If you have a heavier flow, you might need to change more frequently.

Best Practices:

• Carry spare pads in your bag, especially on heavier flow days.
• Always wash your hands before and after handling a pad.

6. Dispose of Your Pad Properly

Wrap the used pad in its original wrapper or toilet paper, and discard it in a trash bin. Avoid flushing pads down the toilet as they can clog pipes and harm the environment.

Pro Tip:

• Some brands provide individual disposal bags, making it easier to wrap the used pad discreetly.

Additional Tips for Comfort and Hygiene

1. Wear Comfortable Clothing: Tight pants can press the pad closer to your body, causing chafing or irritation.
2. Opt for Breathable Underwear: Cotton fabric reduces sweat and keeps you feeling fresh.
3. Monitor Skin Sensitivity: If you notice rashes or redness, try switching to pads labeled “hypoallergenic” or “breathable.”
4. Track Your Cycle: Knowing when your period usually starts can help you stay prepared with the right type of pad.

Learning how to wear pad correctly ensures a leak-free, comfortable period experience. With the right pad choice, proper positioning, and regular changes, you can go about your daily activities without worry. If you’re interested in exploring different types of sanitary napkins or need more tips, check out this guide on first periods and sanitary napkins.

Remember, each period is unique, so don’t hesitate to experiment with various pad sizes and brands until you find the perfect fit for your flow and lifestyle. By following these steps and staying attentive to your body’s needs, you can navigate your periods with confidence and ease.