Pads are one of the most common and easy-to-use period products. Once you know the basics of how to use a pad, you’ll be a pro in no time! Let’s walk through it step by step.
Step 1: Wash Your Hands
Before you start, wash your hands with soap and water. This helps keep everything clean and hygienic.
Step 2: Open the Pad
Remove the pad from its wrapper. Pull the wrapper away to expose the sticky side of the pad.
Pro tip: Save the wrapper—you’ll use it later to dispose of your used pad.
Step 3: Place the Pad in Your Underwear
Turn your underwear so the inside is facing up. Center the sticky side of the pad in the lowest part of your underwear—the area that sits between your legs. Make sure it’s not placed too far forward or too far back.
If your pad has wings, peel off the backing and fold the wings around the underside of your underwear to help keep the pad secure and prevent leaks.
For extra tips on pad placement and comfort, check out our guide!
Step 4: Get Comfortable
Pull your underwear back up, wiggle around and make sure that your pad is placed in a comfortable position. Once everything feels right, wash your hands and get ready to flow forward!
When to Change Your Pad
Changing your pad every 3–4 hours (or more often if your flow is heavy) is an important part of good period hygiene. Regular changes help prevent leaks, reduce moisture and avoid unwanted odors. If your pad feels wet, uncomfortable or full—it’s time for a fresh one.
How to Dispose of a Used Pad
When it’s time for a change:
- Remove the used pad before replacing it with a new one by pulling the pad off your underwear.
- Roll it up and wrap it in toilet paper or the wrapper from your fresh pad.
- Throw it in the trash.
🚨 Never flush pads or wrappers down the toilet—they can cause serious plumbing issues and pollute the environment.
Different Types of Pads
Not all pads are the same, and that’s a good thing! There are:
- Panty liners
- Day pads
- Night or overnight pads
- Pads with wings
- Pads without wings
Your flow, activity level and comfort preferences may change throughout your cycle, so don’t be afraid to try a few different options to find what works best for you.
