How to Use a Sanitary Napkin (Pad)

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If you just got your period for the first time, you'll most likely want to start by using a pad, since they're a bit easier to use than tampons. The process can be a little intimidating at first, but by learning just a few simple steps, you can avoid the mess, the fuss, and the worry. We’ll go over everything you need to know below.

Part 1
Part 1 of 3:

Putting a Pad On

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  1. With nearly 3.5 billion people having periods on this planet, there are a whole bunch of options out there to accommodate all our different needs. Here's the general rundown on your choices: [1]
    • Thickness. The lighter your period, the thinner your pad can be. Thin pads can still be quite absorbent, and they're often very comfortable to wear. You may even forget they're there!
    • Absorbency. Look at the rating (light, average, or super), and try a few different brands and styles before settling on one you like. You may need more absorbent pads during heavier days of your period, and less absorbent pads on lighter days.
    • Shape . There are different shapes of undies out there, so naturally there are different shapes of pads. There are pads for regular undies and thongs, as well as pads designed to wear overnight while you sleep. Overnight pads have a longer shape to prevent leaks when you’re lying down.
    • Style. There are two things here: with wings and without. "Wings" are flaps that adhere to your underwear and help the pad stay in place, so they’re generally good to have. There are options without wings, though, if you don’t like how they feel.
      • In general, stay away from scented pads, especially if your skin is sensitive. They can be irritating to your skin, and they aren’t necessary.
      • There are also panty-liners, but those are a different type of product. You can wear panty liners when you think your period is starting or when it's ending — that is, when it's really, really light—or to protect against leaks if you’re wearing a tampon. [2]
    • Disposable or reusable. Reusable pads are good for the environment and your wallet, as they produce less waste and can be washed and worn again. They also come in different sizes and absorbencies and tend to be pretty comfortable to wear. [3]
  2. Most people change their pads when they need to use the toilet, but sometimes the desire strikes you at empty-bladder times, too. Whatever it is, find the nearest bathroom, wash your hands, and get you your underwear in sight. [4]
    • It'll be easiest if you're sitting down and your undies are around your knees. Standing is fine, too; you just want everything in an arm's reach.
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  3. Many pads come individually wrapped, so you’ll need to remove their plastic outer wrappings. You could discard these wrappings at this point, but you can also use them to wrap up your used pad once you take it off. Many people who use period products choose to do this so that their pad isn’t visible in the trash. [5]
  4. Expose the adhesive on the wings too, and dispose of each of these paper backings in the trash or a sanitary bin (you won't need them for wrapping).
    • In some brands of pads, the wrapper doubles as the backing. It's more eco-friendly and simpler — if this is the case, one less step for you!
    • Reusable pads don't have adhesives, so you don't need to worry about this step.
  5. You want the pad to be centered in the seat of your underwear (the part between your legs), not creeping too far to the front or the back. [6] Most pads are a bit thinner on one end and wider at the other—the thinner side is the top and the wider side is the bottom.
    • Got wings? Make sure to fold those around the outside of your panties so that they stick. They'll keep the pad from shifting around as you move, which will be way more comfortable and feel a lot more natural. It also helps prevent leaks during heavy flow.
    • For reusable pads, simply put the shiny part of the pad on your underwear, with the softer side up. Fold the wings around your underwear and use the popper button to close the pad and keep it in place.
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Part 2
Part 2 of 3:

Wearing a Pad Comfortably

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  1. Wearing a pad shouldn’t be uncomfortable or distracting, so if your pad is itchy or irritating your skin at all, remove it and try out a different kind. It's possible it needs recentering, it's saturated, it smells, or that specific kind/size/shape isn't right for you.
  2. After a while, you’ll find that you know how often you'll need to change your pad, and how long a pad lasts you on certain days of your period. But at least at the beginning, do routine checks to prevent any leaks or mishaps, especially if your flow is heavy.
    • No need to run to the bathroom every half hour–checking in on your pad every 2-3 hours should be just fine.
  3. Although it may feel strange at first, the pad will generally not be visible, and you can wear any type of clothes while wearing one. It will follow the curve of your body and be well hidden. However, if you feel uncomfortable in tighter pants or shorts, wearing loose pants or a skirt in breathable fabrics may help. [7]
    • A good rule of thumb is to wear the panties you care about the least when you're on your period in case of any leaks.
    • You can also wear period underwear for extra security (period underwear can also be worn on their own instead of pads if you prefer).
  4. Some people wear pads all the time because they think it keeps them "fresh." It’s not a good idea to do this. Consistently wearing a pad for too long creates a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, and it can even cause a rash or infection. [8] It’s best to use pads only when you need them (i.e., you’re on your period), and let the area breathe otherwise.
    • If you suspect your period is coming up, you can wear period underwear, or panty-liners in the days leading up to it.
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Part 3
Part 3 of 3:

Changing and Disposing of a Pad

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  1. When you go to the bathroom, check to see if your pad needs changing. You should change your pad every 3-4 hours (even if your flow is light) to prevent bacteria and odors from developing. If your period is heavy, you may need to change it more frequently. [9]
  2. When you're changing your pad, wrap up your old one in the wrapper of your new one. If your period is over or a wrapper is unavailable, wrap the used pad in toilet paper. If there is one available, make sure to place it into a sanitary bin so that it is disposed of properly, but if you can’t find any, place it in the trash. [10]
    • Never dispose of anything that isn't toilet paper into the toilet. Don't flush your pads or tampons—this can harm drainage pipes and the environment. [11]
    • For reusable pads, simply put them in the wash.
  3. Always wash your hands well before and after changing your pad, and make sure to wash your genital area daily in the shower with water (no need for specific soaps—the vagina is a self-cleaning organ, and these types of soaps can actually disrupt its natural pH). [12]
    • While we're on the topic of hygiene, remember, a period is not something to be grossed out about or ashamed of. It's a perfectly normal and healthy bodily process. You're making an effort to stay hygienic to prevent infection and skin irritation, not because your period (or you) is gross.
  4. Sometimes, your period is heavier than normal, or it comes when you don't expect it, or a friend ends up needing a pad, so it’s a good idea to carry extras with you at all times. When you use your emergency pad, try to replace it immediately. It’s always good to be prepared!
    • If you find yourself in the bathroom on your period without a product, never hesitate to ask someone. It’s nothing to be embarrassed about, and anyone who gets a period will completely understand. They’ll be happy to help!
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      Tips

      • Carry a spare or two. You can keep them secretly hidden in an inside pocket of your purse, backpack, or makeup bag, according to what you prefer to carry. Your periods may be irregular at first, so it might be a good idea to have one on hand.
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      • Consider using a tampon or menstrual cup . Many people prefer these for use during physical activity such as swimming or in general to avoid discomfort or smells.
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      • If you are not ready or don't want to use tampons or menstrual cups, use a pad. No matter what your friends say it is your body not theirs, make your own decisions.
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      Tips from our Readers

      The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
      • Always use a bigger pad overnight so that you won't have to get up in the middle of the night to change it. Longer pads also help prevent leaks while you're lying on your back. Avoid wearing tampons overnight since you have to change them more often to avoid toxic shock syndrome.
      • Never be afraid to tell your parents or guardian. When I first got my period I was scared and embarrassed, but I got over it and told my mom. She set me up with two starter kits, one big one in my backpack and one that can fit in a pocket.
      • If you're going to play a sport, go swimming, or go running consider using a tampon instead. It's a lot easier than a pad to move around with, and it won't fall apart if you go into the water.
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      Warnings

      • Not changing your pad regularly can contribute to yeast infections. Make sure to change your pad every 4 to 6 hours.
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      • Never flush pads or tampons. Dispose of them in a sanitary bin or the trash instead.
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      • If you don't like pads, don't be afraid of tampons! They don't hurt when you put it in correctly. It may take a few times to get it right, but it's a good alternative. However, pads should still be worn when you sleep at night.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.helpingwomenperiod.org/menstrual-product-options-and-alternatives/
      2. ↑ https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/womens-health/girls-and-young-women-puberty-to-around-25/periods-and-menstrual-health/choosing-period-products/
      3. ↑ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666790822000404
      4. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/about/menstrual-hygiene.html
      5. ↑ https://www.calgary.ca/waste/what-goes-where/tampons.html
      6. ↑ https://www.bodyform.co.uk/break-taboos/discover/your-first-period/how-to-use-a-period-pad/
      7. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/about/menstrual-hygiene.html
      8. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/about/menstrual-hygiene.html
      9. ↑ https://www.webmd.com/women/pads-vs-tampons-what-to-know
      1. ↑ https://www.webmd.com/women/what-to-know-about-disposing-of-used-tampons
      2. ↑ https://www.calgary.ca/waste/what-goes-where/tampons.html
      3. ↑ https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/about/menstrual-hygiene.html
      4. https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/supplies.html
      5. https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/menstruation/how-do-i-use-tampons-pads-and-menstrual-cups
      6. https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/pads-tampons.html

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Once you remove the pad wrapper, unfold the wings and peel off the plastic strips that cover the back and the wings. Then, stick the adhesive onto the inside of your panties in the area that will be directly beneath your vagina. If your pad has wings, you can fold them over and stick them to the outside of your underwear. Wear your panties as normal, but make sure to change the pad every few hours to prevent odor and leakage. To learn how to fix an uncomfortable pad, scroll down.

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      Reader Success Stories

      • Anonymous

        Jul 4, 2023

        "So I got my first period in school, but fortunately my friend had a pad. I just simply had no idea how to apply it. ..." more
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