Itching, redness, or stinging in the intimate area during your period is common. It is usually caused by a combination of friction, moisture, and a skin reaction to certain materials. Most cases can be prevented with simple habits.

What causes pad irritation?

• Moisture and heat. Menstrual blood and sweat held against the skin keep it constantly damp. Hot, humid climates such as Indonesia's make this more likely.
• Friction. A pad that shifts or is too wide can rub against the skin of the inner thighs and labia, especially when walking long distances or exercising.
• Reaction to materials. Some people react to fragrance or certain materials in pads. This reaction is called contact dermatitis.
• Not changing pads often enough. A pad worn for too long allows bacteria and fungi to grow.

How to prevent it

• Change your pad every 4 hours even if it does not feel full, or sooner if it feels full or damp. See How Often Should You Change Your Pad?
• Choose unscented pads.
• Choose a size that matches your flow, so the pad is not too wide and does not shift easily. See How to Choose the Right Pad Size.
• Wear cotton underwear that fits well, neither too tight nor too loose.
• Rinse the intimate area with clean water from front to back, then pat dry rather than rubbing.
• Avoid scented soaps, and do not rinse inside the vagina (douching).
• Do not scratch itchy skin, as this can break the skin.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if the skin blisters, oozes, or is very painful; if you have a fever; if your discharge changes color, becomes clumpy, or smells bad; or if the itching does not improve a few days after your period ends. These symptoms can be caused by an infection that needs treatment.

UMA pads and sensitive skin

The top layer of UMA pads is made from 100% organic cotton certified to the Organic Content Standard (OCS), processed without chlorine, and made without fragrance or deodorizers. UMA pads were tested by Dermatest in Germany on 30 participants with sensitive skin over 72 hours, under the supervision of a dermatologist. No skin reactions were found in participants, and the product received a skin tolerance rating of Excellent.

Follow the prevention steps above whichever pad you use. To learn how to read pad labels, see 3 Things to Know About Organic Pads.