Do period pads cause irritation?
Dealing with an itchy V-Zone (that’s everything to do with our vagina, vulva and the V-shaped front of our body) can be really annoying and distracting, especially when you’re not quite sure what’s going on. It could be anything from a new laundry detergent to snug clothing that’s a bit too tight. Even your period products can contribute to irritation sometimes. But don’t worry—you’re not alone, and we’re here to help you figure it out!
Comfort is key when it comes to period care, so we'll take a look at whether period pads can cause irritation and the methods you can try to provide some relief.
Can period pads cause irritation?
Bodyform period pads are made with care, using top-notch materials and following strict hygiene standards, all to help keep your skin comfortable and irritation-free. But the key to stopping discomfort and irritation depends on a number of factors, from finding the right pad for you, keeping an eye on any reactions and changing as recommended.
How to prevent period pad irritation
Preventing period pad chafing and irritation is pretty straightforward, just a few simple changes to your products or routine can make all the difference.
1. Figure out which products you might be sensitive/allergic to
One cause of irritation around your V-Zone can be an allergic reaction or sensitivity to certain materials, fragrances or even adhesives found in some types of pads. This can lead to a type of rash called contact dermatitis, which can cause redness, swelling and itchiness. While this might sound a little bit concerning, it's a fairly common condition and very easy to treat, usually with a soothing cream. If you're concerned about a period pad allergy or allergy symptoms, you can check in with your doctor to get to the root of the problem and rule out any other underlying conditions.
To help prevent allergic reactions, you can switch to unscented or hypoallergenic products designed for sensitive skin made from breathable materials and free from harsh chemicals.
2. Change your period pad regularly
Whether it's to prevent infections or intimate skin irritation, it's important to keep your V-Zone dry and fresh as much as possible. Wearing your sanitary towels for too long can cause a buildup of moisture from fluids like blood and sweat, disrupting the natural balance of your skin, leading to irritation.
One of the easiest ways to stay on top of your intimate hygiene is to change your pads as regularly as recommended, which is usually every 3-4 hours. However, if you feel like changing earlier, go for it! Your comfort is always the priority.
3. Change the type of pad you use
When shopping for period pads, it can be easy to get overwhelmed by the seemingly never-ending options to choose from. From different sizes and absorbency levels to pads with or without wings, it can be difficult to know which type will be your perfect fit.
If a pad is too small, it might not give you enough coverage, which can cause leaks and constant shifting—leading to a friction rash and chafing. On the other hand, a pad that's too big can bunch up and rub against your skin, or even trap moisture, causing skin irritation or rashes. To find the best pad size for you, think about your flow, your body shape and how active you are. You may need longer or more absorbent pads on heavy flow days or at night, while you might be fine with smaller ones or even liners on light flow days.
It’s a good idea to try different sizes and types to see what feels most comfortable for your body and your lifestyle. If you live a more active life for example, you might experience a bit more friction, so finding the best pad for you is even more important in reducing the risk of pad rash.
To help reduce the risk of irritation and period rash further, try to avoid tight clothing and underwear and opt for breathable materials like cotton. This allows for proper airflow and helps reduce exposure to moisture, keeping your skin dry and more comfortable.
4. Clean your vulva
Keeping your vulva (the outer parts of your V-Zone, including the labia majora (outermost lips), labia minora (innermost lips), clitoris, and entrance to the vagina) clean is important for preventing future rashes, infections and irritation. Luckily, it's really easy to do, and there are a few ways to do it whether you're at home or out and about. Remember, your vagina (the inside part) is self-cleaning, so let your body naturally take care of that!
All you need to do is gently wash the area with warm water when you have your daily bath or shower, but if you want an extra boost of care and freshness, you can use an intimate wash too. Keep in mind that these types of washes are designed for your delicate V-Zone and intimate skin, so make sure whatever you're using is gentle and fragrance-free. Last but not least, make sure to pat yourself dry with a clean towel to prevent any moisture buildup.
For quick freshening up when you're on the go, intimate wipes are a great option to keep handy for a fast, gentle clean anytime. Whether you're crushing a personal best on a park run or living it up at a festival, you can still stay fresh and clean wherever you are.
And if you're looking to dive deeper into all things intimate and vaginal health, why not subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on all things period and period care.
Can period pads cause infections?
While period pads themselves don’t directly cause infections, they can create conditions that increase the risk of infection if they're not used correctly. Pads can trap moisture and heat, especially if they're worn for too long, which creates a perfect environment for bacteria or yeast to overgrow. This can throw off your vagina's natural balance (pH levels), sometimes leading to yeast infections like thrush or bacterial infections such as bacterial vaginosis (BV). [1]
If you notice any signs of infection, it’s always a good idea to reach out to your doctor for advice and treatment options to ensure everything is healing properly. And if you’re feeling anxious or unsure, don’t hesitate to lean on friends or family for support.
Loads of things can affect your vaginal health, from simple things like changing your laundry detergent or taking certain medications to other issues like infections. Just like any other body part, it's good to keep an eye on its health and take action if you notice something different from your normal. Our V-Zones are amazing, but sometimes they need a little extra care and attention.
Pad rash and irritated skin from period products can be frustrating, making it hard to focus on anything else. But there are plenty of simple ways to prevent it and stay comfortable during your period. Choosing the right pad size, switching to breathable cotton underwear, trying period pads for sensitive skin, and keeping the area clean and dry can make a big difference. Remember, it’s all about finding what works best for your body. With a few easy adjustments, you can keep irritation at bay and focus on staying comfortable and confident throughout your menstrual cycle! If you're wondering how to prevent irritation with panty liners, we've got you covered there too.
Medical disclaimer
The medical information in this article is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your doctor for guidance about a specific medical condition.
This article has been reviewed on 6th January 2025 by Karen Joash BSc (Hons), MSc, MBBS, MRCOG PGCert, ILM and MBA, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital. You can find out more about Dr Karen on her Instagram, LinkedIn and X pages.
References:
[1] Torondel B, Sinha S, Mohanty JR, Swain T, Sahoo P, Panda B, Nayak A, Bara M, Bilung B, Cumming O, Panigrahi P, Das P. Association between unhygienic menstrual management practices and prevalence of lower reproductive tract infections: a hospital-based cross-sectional study in Odisha, India. BMC Infect Dis. 2018 Sep 21;18(1):473. doi: 10.1186/s12879-018-3384-2. PMID: 30241498; PMCID: PMC6150969
