Pads: disposable and reusable
Pads sit in underwear and absorb blood outside the body.
- Disposable pad — Use once, then put it in a bin.
- Reusable pad — Wear, then wash and dry for next time.
- Place in underwear — The soft side faces your body.
- Dispose or store safely — Bin disposable pads. Store reusable pads until washing.
Pads do not go inside the vagina.
Quick answer
A pad is a period product that sits in your underwear and absorbs period blood outside the body. Some pads are disposable and some are reusable.
How does a pad work?
A pad has a soft absorbent side that faces your body. Disposable pads usually have a sticky side that attaches to your underwear. Reusable pads often fasten around the underwear and are washed after use. Some pads have “wings” that fold around the underwear to help keep the pad in place.
How do I put on a disposable pad?
- Wash your hands if you can.
- Take the pad out of the wrapper.
- Peel off the backing paper.
- Stick the pad to the inside middle part of your underwear.
- If it has wings, fold them around the outside of the underwear.
- Pull your underwear up and check it feels comfortable.
What about reusable pads?
Reusable pads usually fasten around the underwear and are washed after use. Ask a trusted adult how to store and wash them if you are not sure.
How often should I change it?
Change your pad when it feels full, wet, uncomfortable or starts to smell. On heavier days, you may need to change more often. Reusable pads also need to be stored and washed safely after use.
What if it feels bulky or moves around?
That can happen. Try a different size, shape or absorbency. Make sure it is stuck in the middle of your underwear. Underwear that fits well can also help.
Can I sleep in a pad?
Many people use pads at night. Night pads are usually longer to help with leaks while sleeping. Change your product before bed and again when you wake up.
What if pads irritate my skin?
Tell a trusted adult if you feel itchy, sore or uncomfortable. You may need to change more often, try a different brand, avoid scented products, or ask a healthcare professional for advice if irritation continues.
Ask Luma
You could ask: “How do I put on a pad?” or “What should I do if my pad keeps moving?”
Final reassurance
Pads are a common first period product because they are simple and do not go inside the body. It is okay if it takes a few tries to get used to them.
Developer source note
Content is grounded in NHS period product guidance, NHS toxic shock syndrome guidance, UNICEF menstrual health and hygiene principles, and the user-supplied BBC News link for current public discussion of period products. Final live pages should keep source links in the CMS or editorial notes.