Allergy to sanitary pads: understanding and managing it

When you have your period, you use various types of protection: tampons, period panties, cups, or even disposable pads.

Have you ever felt uncomfortable when wearing a disposable pad? The itching, redness, and burning sensations that don’t seem to be caused by your period can be confusing.

You’re not alone! Many women experience allergies to pads without even realizing it.

Why is this important? Simply because one in ten women can suffer from allergic reactions or irritation from conventional period products. These reactions can not only ruin your period week but also have longer-lasting effects on your intimate health.

We already knew that tampons dry out the vaginal flora, but what about pads?

Allergies to sanitary pads are more common than you might think! These unpleasant reactions can be caused by several ingredients found in conventional period products.

Most conventional sanitary pads contain synthetic materials like polyethylene and super-absorbent polymers (SAP) that help absorb fluids. Rayon, often used as the layer in contact with skin, can also cause reactions in some people.

Added chemicals are especially problematic: artificial fragrances, dyes, and chlorine bleach can all trigger irritation and allergies. Even more concerning, the adhesives used to keep pads in place may contain latex or synthetic resins that can cause serious skin reactions.

The risk is higher for people with naturally sensitive skin or a history of skin allergies to other products. The vulnerable area (mucous membranes) where these products are used also increases the chance of reactions.

Recognizing the signs of a sanitary pad allergy is essential to act quickly and prevent symptoms from worsening. Reactions can appear within minutes of use or may develop gradually over several hours.

A typical reaction often starts with a feeling of discomfort or burning that gets worse over time. Many women describe a burning sensation that can become very uncomfortable, especially when moving. This pain can persist even after removing the pad.

A telltale sign is the appearance of redness and irritation that matches the exact shape of the pad. These marks are often accompanied by intense itching that can disrupt daily activities and sleep.

In more severe cases, small blisters or hives-like patches may appear and can extend beyond the area in direct contact with the pad.

😷 Associated symptoms

Beyond skin reactions, other symptoms may appear. Swelling of the affected areas is common, sometimes making walking or sitting uncomfortable.

Some women report a strange feeling of warmth in the vulvar area, sometimes accompanied by pain that can radiate to the thighs or lower back. In severe cases, you may see inflammation of the vaginal mucous membranes nearby, creating a sensation similar to an infection.

The psychological stress associated with these symptoms shouldn’t be underestimated, as discomfort can significantly affect quality of life during your period.

If you’re allergic to sanitary pads, there are several approaches you can take. The goal is twofold: to relieve existing symptoms and prevent future reactions by switching to healthier alternatives.

To soothe an ongoing reaction, medical treatments may be necessary. Low-dose corticosteroid creams applied locally help reduce inflammation and itching. In some cases, oral antihistamines may be added to help lessen the systemic allergic reaction.

But the real solution is switching your period protection. Period underwear like those from Louloucup offer an excellent hypoallergenic alternative. Made from natural fabrics and certified free from harmful chemicals, they eliminate the risks linked to conventional disposable pads. Their soft, breathable texture ensures optimal comfort, even for the most sensitive skin. You can easily find the composition of each pair in the shop’s product descriptions. And for all Louloucup period underwear, there’s just one inner lining: ultra-soft, certified organic cotton for maximum comfort.

The menstrual cup is another recommended period alternative. Models like the soft turquoise menstrual cup or the classic pink menstrual cup, made from hypoallergenic medical-grade silicone, are especially good for people with allergies. Free from chemicals and reusable, they greatly reduce the risk of reactions while offering very reliable protection.

If you suspect an allergy to sanitary pads, don’t hesitate to see a doctor, ideally a dermatologist or gynecologist. A professional diagnosis is important to tell the difference between simple irritation and a true allergy.

The doctor will usually perform a thorough physical exam and ask about your symptoms, their timeline, and their relation to pad use. In some cases, skin tests (patch tests) may be recommended to precisely identify the responsible allergens.

Once diagnosed, your doctor can recommend the right treatments and advise you on the best alternatives for your specific situation, such as LouLoucup products.

Don’t wait for symptoms to get worse: early intervention helps prevent complications and quickly improves your comfort.

Allergies to sanitary pads are a real issue for many women, but solutions do exist. Understanding the causes and recognizing the symptoms is the first step toward better managing this condition.

Today, thanks to alternatives like Louloucup period underwear and menstrual cups, you can have a comfortable period even with sensitive skin. These solutions combine comfort, health safety, and environmental consciousness, offering a modern and caring approach to menstrual hygiene.

Remember, every woman is unique – take the time to find the solution that works best for you, and don’t hesitate to seek advice from healthcare professionals to support you in this process.