What are abdominal pads?
While tampons and menstrual cups are commonly used period products, abdominal pads provide an alternative option especially for those experiencing heavy periods. Abdominal pads, also known as maternity or maxi pads, are extra-long sanitary napkins that are worn externally along the abdomen area to absorb menstrual blood flowing down from the vaginal area. As the name suggests, they are wider in size than regular sanitary pads to cover the whole lower abdominal area where blood may spread during heaviest flow days of periods.

Construction and materials used
Abdominal Pads is come with an absorbent core made of layers of cellulose fluff pulp or super absorbent polymers (SAPs) which can absorb and retain large volumes of fluid. This core is enfolded between a top layer of non-woven fabric or a plastic film and a bottom layer of breathable non-woven fabric. The breathable backsheet allows air circulation to keep skin dry while preventing soiling of clothes. Adhesive strips or tabs are provided on the back for secure attachment to undergarments. Some premium brands infuse odor-neutralizing chemicals or essential oils in the pads to keep odors at bay.

Sizing options for different flow needs
Abdominal pads come in a range of sizes to suit variations in flow among women and across period days. Regular size abdominal pads measure 10-12 inches in length for moderate flows, while jumbo or extra-long pads extending 14-16 inches offer fuller coverage on heavy flow days. Some brands provide wings or extra length on the sides for expanded protection. There are also extra-wide pads available that are approximately 6 inches broad to wrap around the entire waist area comfortably. Women experiencing flooding during periods benefit most from the extra protection offered by these bigger abdominal pads.

Coping with heavy menstrual bleeding
Heavy menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia, affects over 20% of women during their reproductive years and may cause health issues if left untreated. While regular menstrual periods involve losing around 2-3 tablespoons of blood flow over 3-5 days, heavy periods involve losing over 80ml of blood or soaking through one or more pads or tampons hourly. Abdominal pads play a key role in managing heavy flows safely and keeping leakage and staining at bay. Their high absorption power prevents blood from overflowing the edges onto clothes even during peak flows. This helps avoid embarrassing situations and gives confidence to go about normal activities pain-free.

Dealing with postpartum bleeding
Abdominal pads are indispensable for new mothers in the first few weeks after childbirth, commonly known as the postpartum period. Lochia, the vaginal discharge following delivery, can remain heavy with blood, mucus and uterine tissue for up to 6 weeks. The extra-large wings and coverage of abdominal pads effectively catch the lochial discharge and prevent stains on clothes. This makes them a comfortable choice compared to constantly soaking bulky regular pads during recovery. Stocking up on jumbo abdominal pads prepares women well for dealing with post-childbirth bleeding at home hassle-free.

Manage pain and irritation from stitches
For C-section deliveries involving abdominal incisions, regular pad changes put pressure in the tender area which can exacerbate pain and slow healing. Abdominal pads provide a gentler solution as their wider cut and attachment method keeps the wound area pad-free. This prevents friction and maceration of new skin which tend to complicate wound healing. Their breathable back allows air circulation in the incision region too for quicker recovery. Women opting for abdominal pads after a C-section can change pads less frequently whilst getting required absorption without exacerbating pain from perineal or abdominal stitches.

Easy management of incontinence
Stress urinary incontinence, a common bladder control problem impacting many women post-childbirth or with age, often worsens during periods due to hormonal influences. Accidental leaks can stain regular pads leading to rashes. Abdominal pads comfortably cover the urethral area to catch leaks discreetly. Their protective wings prevent urine seepage onto clothes even when experiencing frequent urges and light bladder leaks alongside periods. This protects intimate skin health from chafing and rashes caused by prolonged exposure to urine. Many women dealing with incontinence prefer abdominal pads as comfortable daily protection.

Practical period undies
Period underwear brands like Thinx have redefined the menstrual experience making pads history. Their leakproof panties absorb period flow discreetly without discomfort from pads. However, women experiencing heavy bleeding or those recovering post-childbirth find them alone inadequate. Pairing Thinx-style panties with abdominal pads provides a comfortable no-stain solution for such heavy flow days. The pad catches overflow safely while panties manage regular flow inconspicuously. Many now consider abdominal pad and period panties as a practical combo to handle periods with confidence regardless of flow levels.

Staying active during periods
Abdominal pads enable women to stay active during their cycle without worrying about leaks. Their secure sides grip fabric preventing accidents from exercise, swimming or other activities. Many athletes opt for them for workouts during periods, especially acro and contact sports where regular pads often fail to contain stains from sudden movements. Whether it's a workout session or active days out, abdominal pads keep women covered discreetly and hygienically. The flexibility to exercise regularly without anxiety over leaks boosts wellbeing and self-confidence during periods.

Maintaining intimate hygiene
Abdominal pads play a big role in maintaining intimate hygiene outside of periods too owing to their coverage area. They absorb secretions and odors effectively without any risk of them spreading to underwear or clothes. This makes them suitable for daily use by women prone to urinary or vaginal infections to avoid bacterial reinfections. Those recovering from infections, procedures or injuries below the waist also find them gentle and hygienic alternatives to regular pads for healing the sensitive areas undisturbed. Their protective barrier properties aid intimate health in multiple non-menstrual ways too.

Disposal and washing of used pads
Used abdominal pads contain blood and other bodily fluids and should always be disposed in closed bins to avoid odor and mess. For cloth pads, a quick soak followed by machine washing with hot water using a regular detergent is sufficient to sanitize them. It is best to wash them separately from other clothes. Non-bio pads and applicators used internally can be wrapped and thrown as per local waste rules before putting in main bins. Proper disposal and hygienic handling of used pads is necessary for maintaining health and preventing infections.

In the abdominal pads offer an effective yet gentle solution for managing heavy periods, vaginal discharge, postpartum bleeding, incontinence and maintaining intimate hygiene. Their wider size and coverage comes as a relief for issues regular pads fail to handle discreetly. With growing awareness, more women are adopting them as a simple yet transformative tool for staying clean, active and confident through life stages involving hormonal

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