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How Often Should You Change Your Pad?

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How Often Should You Change Your Pad?

Maintaining an optimal level of menstrual hygiene during that time of the month is the need of the hour. It's important not only for your health but also for keeping urinary tract infections (UTIs) and yeast infections at bay. One of the safest ways to ensure best hygiene practice is by changing your pads often. This practice helps you minimise the risk of leakage and prevent infections and period odour at large.

This might make you wonder, "how often should I change my pad?" Well, it essentially depends on your flow and the type of sanitary pad you are using. That being said, keep reading ahead to find out how often you should change your pad and what happens if you don't.

After How Many Hours Should a Pad Be Changed?
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After How Many Hours Should a Pad Be Changed?

Typically, experts recommend changing your pad every three-five hours

Typically, experts recommend changing your pad every three-five hours. It highly depends on the kind of flow you are experiencing on that particular day. As each and every body is different, finding specific numbers is a little difficult. But it's very important to change pads during periods to avoid leaks, discomfort and period odour. There are different types of sanitary pads in the market that provide comfort and protection as per your needs. If you wish to enjoy comfortable periods, try out Always Ultra Thin Pads which are armed with a super-absorbent core and flexible wings, delivering up to 100% protection.

How Many Times In A Day Should You Change Your Pad?
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How Many Times In A Day Should You Change Your Pad?

On average, you should change your pad four - five times a day

On average, you should change your pad four - five times a day. There are many factors that you should keep in mind while considering how often you should change your pad in a day which includes:

Flow
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Flow

As mentioned earlier, heavy flow days would need more pad change than lighter flow days. Usually, you might experience the former type of flow in the first two to three days of your cycle. During such days, you would want to use pads like the Always Maxi Thick Pads which has an innovative extra-absorbent core that keeps you protected for hours at a stretch. In case you use a tampon, make sure to change it within a span of three to five hours, to avoid the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS). This applies to your lighter flow days too.

Weather
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Weather

Hot weather leads to sweat and more irritation down there. A frequent pad change on such days is highly recommended to avoid rashes and infections. You can even opt for tampons like the Always TAMPAX Cardboard Tampons which are equipped with quick absorption channels that offer you leak-free period protection.

Physical Activity
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Physical Activity

Be it a quick workout or a cycling ride, physical activity will make you sweat. This trapped moisture can make things itchier and become a breeding ground for bacteria. Thus, it's best to keep a pad change handy at such times.

What Happens When You Wear A Pad Too Long?
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What Happens When You Wear A Pad Too Long?

There are quite a few things that can occur if you wear a sanitary pad for a prolonged period of time. Some of the common ones are as follows:

Rashes
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Rashes

Typically, rashes are an outcome of the condition known as contact dermatitis. In this condition, your skin comes in contact with something in your pad that irritates it. Thus, using good quality sanitary pads is a must! Another reason for rashes is the level of friction caused between the pad and your vaginal region. Prolonged usage of a damp pad increases this friction, thereby causing rashes.

Bad Period Odour
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Bad Period Odour

This odour is the result of the bacteria that exits in your body with the blood and tissues. Over time, if the pad isn't changed frequently, this bacteria starts leaving a foul odour. Here are some tips to get rid of smelly vaginal discharge.

Yeast Infection
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Yeast Infection

High moisture environment tends to be a breeding ground for yeast infections. The dampness of your pad invites the yeast to grow in your vaginal region and turn it into an infection. Understand symptoms and causes of vaginal discharge with yeast infection.

So, are you wondering whether can you wear a pad for 8 or 12 hours straight or not? Experts suggest that typically one should avoid wearing pads for such a long duration.

By maintaining your menstrual hygiene and knowing how often you should change your pad, you can enjoy stress-free, comfortable periods. Remember to change your pad at regular intervals (every three-four hours) and discard your used pads with proper care. In case you develop any kind of rash or infection, consult with your doctor and get the right treatment.

Stay well prepared for your next period by tracking it on Always Period Calculator.

Disclaimer

Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Always is committed to ensuring that all of our products meet rigorous safety standards; Always pads prioritize safety, protection and comfort of its consumers.

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