Periods 101
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Can you be allergic to period pads? Signs, causes, and solutions
Yes, you can be allergic to period pads. It’s one of those things no one likes to talk about, but we really should. If you’ve been dealing with itching, irritation, or a rash “down there” during your period, the culprit might just be sitting in your underwear.
Here’s the lowdown on why it happens, how to spot it, and—most importantly—how to deal with it.
Signs You Might Be Allergic to Period Pads
Your body has a not-so-subtle way of telling you something’s wrong. Look out for these symptoms around the area your pad touches—your vulva, thighs, or even your bum if the pad wraps far enough:
- Redness
- Rashes
- Persistent itching
- Burning sensation
- Swelling or discomfort
If you’ve noticed any of these signs during your period, don’t suffer in silence. These are common symptoms of contact dermatitis—a type of allergic reaction that happens when your skin doesn’t agree with something in your pad.
What’s to Blame? (Spoiler Alert: It’s Not You)
Certain ingredients in mainstream period pads can be downright harmful for sensitive areas like your vulva. The thin skin around your genitals is super absorbent, so irritants can cause issues much faster than on other parts of your body.
Here’s what might be causing the problem:
- Fragrances – Added to make pads smell “fresh”, but they can irritate your skin. Your vagina doesn’t need a side of perfume with its period care.
- Dyes – Those “pretty” coloured strips on pads? They’re unnecessary and often packed with synthetic dyes that can trigger reactions.
- Plastics – Most mainstream pads are loaded with petroleum-based plastics that trap moisture, causing irritation, chafing, and even infections.
- Adhesives – Used to make your pad stick to your underwear, but these chemicals can stick to your skin in the worst way.
Basically, if your pad contains synthetic materials or unnecessary chemicals, it’s likely to be unfriendly to your skin.
How to Stop the Nightmare (and Start Feeling Comfortable Again)
The good news? You don’t have to put up with this nonsense. A pad shouldn’t cause chaos for your body—it’s there to support you while you bleed, not irritate the hell out of you. Fix it with these steps:
Switch to Pads Made for Your Vagina, Not a Lab Test
Mainstream period pads are stuffed with plastics and irritants, so it’s time to ditch them. Look for pads made with organic, breathable materials like 100% cotton. Cotton is hypoallergenic, allows your skin to breathe, and won’t leave you feeling hot and sweaty.
Need a recommendation? Mooncup pads (yes, we’re biased) are made with organic cotton and contain zero irritants, zero dyes, and zero synthetic nasties. Your vulva deserves the best.
Say Goodbye to Fragrances and Dyes
Check the packaging. If a product promises “odour control” or has a bright white “clean” look, that’s a red flag. Fragrances and bleached materials might make pads look fancy, but they’re often the source of irritation.
Keep Things Dry
If you’re using a pad that doesn’t breathe, it’s basically creating a sweaty sauna in your knickers. This is prime ground for irritation. Swapping to breathable, organic pads means better airflow and less moisture build-up.
Simplify
Avoid fancy marketing gimmicks like infused pads or “cooling agents”. Your period doesn’t need gimmicks—it just needs care and comfort.
Trial and Error
If switching pads doesn’t solve the problem, consider other options like reusable cloth pads, menstrual cups, or period underwear. Everyone’s body is different, so it’s all about finding what works for you.
You Deserve Better Period Care
Rashes and itching are not “normal”. They’re a clear sign that something isn’t working. The solution? Swap to period products that actually care about your body and what it needs—natural, breathable materials that won’t leave your vulva raging.
Say no to irritating period care. Say yes to products that support your body (and the planet) like our Mooncup pads. Made with 100% organic cotton, they’re hypoallergenic, breathable, and oh-so-comfortable.
Your period is challenging enough. Don’t let your pad make it worse. If you’re ready to give your body the break it deserves, check out our range of sustainable, skin-friendly period products. You’ll never look back.
