A period pad, also known as a sanitary pad or sanitary napkin, is a rectangle of absorbent material designed to be worn inside underwear to absorb menstrual blood during a woman's period.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
-
Purpose: The primary function of a period pad is to absorb menstrual flow, preventing it from staining clothing.
-
Construction: Pads are typically made of layers of absorbent materials such as cotton, rayon, or synthetic polymers. They often have an adhesive strip on the back to secure them to the underwear.
-
Types: Period pads come in various sizes, shapes, and absorbencies to accommodate different levels of menstrual flow:
- Light: For light flow or spotting.
- Regular: For moderate flow.
- Heavy/Super: For heavy flow.
- Overnight: Longer and more absorbent, designed for overnight use.
-
Features: Some pads have additional features for comfort and protection:
- Wings: Extensions that wrap around the sides of the underwear for added security.
- Odor control: Ingredients to neutralize menstrual odor.
- Contoured shapes: Designed to fit the body's curves for better comfort and leak protection.
-
Usage: To use a pad, simply peel off the adhesive backing and press the pad firmly onto the crotch area of your underwear. Ensure the pad is positioned correctly to catch the flow. Change the pad regularly, typically every 4-8 hours, or more frequently if needed.
-
Disposal: Used pads should be wrapped in toilet paper or a disposal bag and disposed of in a trash can. Never flush pads down the toilet, as they can clog plumbing systems.
In summary, a period pad is a disposable absorbent product used to manage menstrual flow by attaching to the inside of underwear. They come in various sizes and absorbencies to meet individual needs.