Why Pads Are Not as Harmless as We Were Told
The uncomfortable truth behind a product we’re taught to trust.
Pads are marketed as the “safe,” beginner-friendly period product. No one really questions them — they’re available everywhere, used by millions, and recommended early. But what most people don’t realize is: we’ve rarely asked what’s actually in them.
So, What’s Actually in Most Pads?
Mainstream pads often contain:
Fragrances + adhesive chemicals (which can irritate sensitive skin)
Bleached cotton + rayon, sometimes with trace levels of dioxins
Synthetic fibers and plastic layers that trap heat + moisture
Super absorbent polymers (SAPs) — tiny plastic beads
Dyes and acrylates linked to skin sensitivity
All of this touches one of the most absorbent, permeable areas of the body. According to the European Journal of Dermatology, vulvar tissue absorbs chemicals more quickly than other skin, meaning exposure is no small deal.
Why It Matters
Pads can contribute to:
Itching, burning, or irritation
Contact dermatitis
Worsened cramps in some women
Inflammation + heat buildup
Bacteria imbalance that disrupts the vaginal microbiome
Many of these symptoms go ignored or blamed on hormones, but for some, the pad is the irritant
So, What Are the Better Options?
Here are safer alternatives backed by studies:
Organic cotton pads → fewer irritants
Unscented products only → lower dermatitis risk
Period underwear → chemical-free and effective
Menstrual cups → low infection risk when used correctly
Reusable cloth pads → reduce plastic exposure
Sources: Cleveland Clinic, FDA, The Lancet, Reproductive Health Journal, Harvard Health
Bottom Line
Pads aren’t evil, but they’re not neutral either. If you're dealing with irritation, cramping, or unexplained discomfort, your period product could be part of the problem.
Your body deserves transparency. And safer options.