Period Rashes: Why Are You Getting Them and How to Avoid Them?

🎶It’s me, hi, I’m the problem, it’s me 🎶 - your sanitary pad, probably. 

That’s right. The reason that you have to deal with period rashes on top of the whole paraphernalia of troubles that periods bring is your sanitary pad. Why is something meant to be a solution giving you rashes? How can you get rid of them? And what can you possibly do to avoid period pad rashes in the future? Let’s dig in and find out!

Why Do I Get Rashes During My Period?

There are a few factors that make your sanitary pad the biggest culprit behind you getting menstrual rashes. Wearing a sanitary pad generally leads to friction when you move, which can lead to chafing, irritation, and itching, especially if the material of your pad is not skin-friendly or safe. 

Now if heat, moisture, and sweat are added to this mix, things get worse, potentially causing bacterial buildup.1 And forget about running, exercising, or engaging in any other physical activity while wearing such a pad. 

If you use one of the popular sanitary pads in the market, chances are it contains a multitude of toxic chemicals and skin irritants like volatile organic chemicals (VOCs), phthalates, and artificial fragrances.2 The different layers of your pad also contain toxic materials such as polyolefins, zinc oxide, petrolatum, and adhesives.3 

When these irritants come in contact with your skin, they can cause an allergic skin reaction known as contact dermatitis or vulvitis in case of these irritants coming in contact with your vulva.4 This is what causes period rashes on your buttocks, thighs, and the vulva. 

Now imagine what this pad can do to you when you continuously wear it for hours on end. In fact, not changing your pad every 4 to 6 hours can also cause rashes.5 And don’t think just because you are using a heavy flow pad you don’t need to change it as often. You need to change it regularly regardless of your flow to avoid an itchy rash from your sanitary pad. 

In fact, poor period hygiene can also lead to a plethora of other issues such as UTI, abnormal vaginal discharge, yeast infection, and bacterial vaginosis. 

How Do I Avoid Period Rashes?

By changing your sanitary pad brand! 

Popular sanitary pads might be cheaper but the cost of using them will reveal itself to you in other ways. So, you should switch to a sanitary pad that is free of toxic chemicals, skin irritants, artificial fragrances, and is made of a hypoallergenic and breathable fabric. But even if you use non-toxic pads, remember to regularly change them throughout the day. 

Alternatively, you can also try different menstrual hygiene products such as a menstrual cup or a period panty. 

And you’re in luck because Azah has got you covered when it comes to safe and skin-friendly period care! 

If you prefer wearing pads, Azah rash-free sanitary pads for women have got your back, literally, and they come in various sizes, for different flows. They are also clinically and dermatologically tested to be safe, making them the best pads for periods. 

 Azah disposable period panties can also provide you 360 degree coverage while ensuring you feel their rash-free softness, whether you’re at home or out and about. 

You can also try Azah reusable menstrual cup for an eco-friendly solution. 

But if you are currently struggling with period rashes, you might also wonder how to treat pad rash. Let’s go over it!

How To Get Rid Of Period Pad Rash?

Here are some period rash treatment methods that you can follow to get rid of them:

1. Maintain good hygiene down there so that you can avoid further infection.
2. Only wear cotton underwear, which allows air circulation and prevents the buildup of moisture.
3. Clean your genital area only with water. No soaps, body wash, scents, or even bubble baths.
4. Don’t rely on any period rashes home remedies without checking with your doctor.
5. Consult a doctor who can prescribe you a topical anti-chafing cream to get rid of the itchiness. 
6. In some cases, the rash might be a sign of a yeast infection, herpes, or even toxic shock syndrome, so it’s essential to see a gynaecologist to get the right care.

Final Verdict

All in all, period rashes are not normal and there’s no reason for you to suffer through the discomfort when they can so easily be avoided. It’s time to give yourself a better period with the best sanitary napkins by Azah which promise you a 100% rash-free period. But remember, if the severity of the rash seems extreme, it’s best to see a gynaecologist so that you can get proper treatment in case of a serious infection.

FAQs

1- Why am I itchy when on my period?

You might feel itchy during your period due to hormonal changes or an allergic reaction to toxic materials in your sanitary pad.

2- How long does period rash last?

A period rash should go away within 2-3 days. If it doesn’t go away within this time frame, consult your doctor.

3- Can I put vaseline on pad rash?

No, you shouldn’t apply vaseline on a pad rash. In fact, don’t apply any cream or gel down there until and unless it has been prescribed to you by your dermatologist or gynaecologist.

4- What are the safest pads to use on my period?

One of the safest pads to use on your period is Azah’s 100% rash-free sanitary pads. They are super soft, breathable, and have been clinically and dermatologically tested to be free of any toxic chemicals, skin irritants, or artificial fragrances which can cause period rashes.