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Today we are going to talk about skin irritation from sanitary products.
Periods commonly make their grand entrance in teenage years and in general remain your life companion until menopause which usually appears between the ages of 45 and 55. Periods normally last around 4 to 8 days with heavy and light days. Of course, we all are different in our period cycles and with our period length.
Across our lifetime, the average menstruating person will use around 14,000 tampons or pads. While this is a huge cost for the environment, it also is a huge cost for the individual.
If periods were not already annoying enough with symptoms like cramps, mood swings, bloating, acne and breast pain, some of us also have to deal with irritations or reactions to the products themselves.
Unfortunately, many find that disposable products lead to skin irritation. This reaction can take many forms from a rash to itching, swelling or redness.
What causes skin irritation from sanitary products?
Sanitary pads are made of different layers of fabric and plastic. Sanitary products also contain added fragrances or chemicals that are irritable to the skin. The vulva is an extremely sensitive area. Therefore the chemicals which are often added to either bleach the product white or to add scent can lead to irritation.
Irritation may also be a sign that you are allergic to a specific chemical used in the product. If you find products irritating try another brand to test if it is a chemical you are allergic to.
Signs of irritation
Periods commonly make their grand entrance in teenage years and in general remain your life companion until menopause which usually appears between the ages of 45 and 55. Periods normally last around 4 to 8 days with heavy and light days. Of course, we all are different in our period cycles and with our period length.
Across our lifetime, the average menstruating person will use around 14,000 tampons or pads. While this is a huge cost for the environment, it also is a huge cost for the individual.
If periods were not already annoying enough with symptoms like cramps, mood swings, bloating, acne and breast pain, some of us also have to deal with irritations or reactions to the products themselves.
Unfortunately, many find that disposable products lead to skin irritation. This reaction can take many forms from a rash to itching, swelling or redness.
What causes skin irritation from sanitary products?
Sanitary pads are made of different layers of fabric and plastic. Sanitary products also contain added fragrances or chemicals that are irritable to the skin. The vulva is an extremely sensitive area. Therefore the chemicals which are often added to either bleach the product white or to add scent can lead to irritation.
Irritation may also be a sign that you are allergic to a specific chemical used in the product. If you find products irritating try another brand to test if it is a chemical you are allergic to.
Signs of irritation
- Persistent and extreme itching
- Vaginal discharge
- Swelling and redness on the labia and vulva
- Burning sensation in the vulvar area
- Cracks on the vulva
If you ever come across such symptoms, do not panic, they are easily treated. Try swapping your period product either to another brand, style or try an organic or reusable product. If symptoms remain visit your GP or healthcare provider.
Interested in reusables? We offer high-quality, eco-friendly and affordable pads made of super comfortable and soft fabrics (a game-changer compared to disposable pads) with zero harsh chemicals.
Want to learn more about our brand and about periods? Follow us on Instagram.