How To Use Pads: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you want to know how to use pads without them feeling uncomfortable or detaching from your underwear, you’re in the right place. It’s a simple 3-step process: unfold the pad, stick it to your underwear and change it every couple of hours. But even if you’ve already learnt these steps, there are still a few tips and tricks to make using pads an even better experience. Gone are the days of unexpected leaks and chafing!

Using a pad: Tips for comfort and protection

When it comes to using pads, you’ll want to start by choosing the right thickness, shape and absorbency level for your needs. Perhaps you prefer a thick maxi pad with a soft cover. Or you might like the lighter feel of an ultra thin pad. We recommend trying different types of pads and period products to see what works for you. Once you’ve chosen the right pad, it should be easy to attach it to your underwear and comfortably use it for a few hours.

Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Open the wrapper and unfold the pad
Step 2: Peel off the wrapper and backing paper to expose the sticky part of the pad
Step 3: Stick the pad to your underwear, remove the wing paper, and fold the wings around the underwear
Step 4: When it’s time, peel back the wings, remove the pad and wrap it up to throw away
And remember to be a binner, not a flusher!

How to use pads for the first time

If you’re using pads for the first time, you’ll get the hang of it in no time. As long as your pad is securely attached to the underwear, you should feel confident and protected. However, here are some extra tips for first-timers who still find pads a little uncomfy or tricky to use, especially if it’s your first period.
Tips for first-time pad users:

• It helps to line up the centre of the pad with the little pocket (gusset) in your underwear. That way, you can ensure the absorbent part of the pad captures most of the liquid.
• Wear tight-fitting cotton underwear with the ‘classic briefs’ design to ensure that your pad can attach securely. Avoid thongs and g-strings.
• Change your pad every few hours or once you feel that it’s full. Never wear a full pad for too long!
  Wrap up used pads (or tampons and pantyliners) in toilet paper or an old wrapper before disposing of them.
• Go to the restroom to change your pad while in public settings. There is often a small bin for disposal in the toilet cubicle.

And if you're wondering how to use a tampon, we have you covered.

How long can you wear a pad?

Whether you have a light or heavy flow, you can typically wear a pad for about 4 hours during the day or 8 hours at night. There are absorbent Lil-Lets Maxi Thick Pads specially designed to absorb menstrual blood overnight. And even if there is no flow, light spotting or discharge, bacteria can build up in the pad if you wear it for too long. To look after your health, prevent odours and protect against leakage, change your pad several times throughout the day. This will also help to avoid toxic shock syndrome.

How to dispose of sanitary pads

You can dispose of sanitary pads by wrapping them in toilet paper or an old wrapper and throwing them in the bin. Never flush a pad as it can have serious effects on the environment. First of all, you run the risk of clogging your toilet — yikes! Secondly, flushed pads often end up in our oceans if you don’t dispose of them correctly.

Do pads expire?

You can typically find the expiry date for pads on the product packaging. Although it’s rather rare, expired pads can lead to health consequences such as fungal infections, itching or increased vaginal discharge. So be sure to use pads that aren’t expired. Pads should be used within 3-4 years if they have been stored in a cool and dry area. This prevents the growth of mould or bacteria inside the product which could compromise one’s health.