The heavy flow days of your period can be a lot to handle. After all, you have a life, and having to remember to regularly swap out your pad isn’t exactly something you want to deal with.
For the record, you’re considered to have a heavy flow when you soak through one or more pads or tampons every hour for several hours in a row, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Needing to change your pad or tampon during the night and needing to wear more than one pad at once to control your flow also qualify, ACOG says.
While some days on your cycle are heavier than others, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor if your period is basically one big heavy flow, says women’s health expert Jennifer Wider, MD.
Of course, “heavy flow” can also just mean you’re having more bleeding than usual for you on any given day. Most women experience this during their period—it’s usually in the beginning—and it’s good to be prepared so you're not constantly swapping out lighter pads to try to control your flow.
If you like to use pads, having options around that are specially designed for a heavy flow can be a lifesaver. They can give you more free time between pad changes and make you less worried about leaks—always clutch when it’s that time.
But…what should you look for? And how can you know that you’re getting the right pads for heavy flow? Ob-gyns break it all down.
What should I consider when buying pads for a heavy flow?
There’s actually a lot to factor in here. First and foremost, you want a pad that’s specially designed for heavy flow, Dr. Wider says. These will usually have more absorption ability and special features to help keep you from hitting up the bathroom every 20 minutes for a pad change.
Wings are also a good option to have. “A lot of times, pads with wings help keep blood from leaking,” says Christine Greves, MD, a board-certified ob-gyn at the Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies in Orlando, Florida. Size matters, too. While some women are cool with a thicker pad, others “prefer thinner pads and changing them more often,” Dr. Greves says. Either one is fine, she says—it’s really a matter of personal preference.
Also, experts stress that it’s really best to go with an unscented pad. “Scented products can cause irritation in some women,” Dr. Wider says.
How often should I change my pad if I have a heavy flow?
Since “heavy” is kind of a relative term, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. “The amount you change your pad depends on your flow,” Dr. Greves says.
In general, though, Dr. Wider says it’s good to change your pad at least every two to three hours. And, at a minimum, you’ll want to change it at least four times a day, Dr. Greves says. Why does this matter? “If your pad is left for too long, it can develop an odor and become a breeding ground for yeast or bacteria,” Dr. Wider says.
You’ll probably know when it’s time to swap out your pad by looking at it. “In general, it's easy to tell because it feels full and gets uncomfortable,” Dr. Wider says.
Ready to stock up on pads for a heavy flow? These options are definitely worth considering.
1. Always Infinity Pads
Specially designed for heavy flow days, these pads feature special FlexFoam technology for a thin and flexible pad you can barely feel. It also offers up to 10-hours of leak-free protection to keep you clean, while moisture-wicking technology keeps you dry.
2. Cora Organic Overnight Pad
Cora's pads are made for overnight use. They feature a 100-percent organic cotton topsheet to keep you comfy and dry. The pads are free of chlorine, fragrances, artificial dyes, deodorants, toxic adhesives, acetone, rayon, polyester, and phthalates. And, while these pads look thin, they absorb more than 10 times their weight.
3. Seventh Generation Ultra Thin Pads
These winged pads are made with zero chlorine bleaching to help prevent harmful toxins from entering waterways during production and disposal. They're ultra-thin, but highly absorbent. While Seventh Generation has super-strength pads, their overnight pads are considered to have the strongest protection.
4. Think ECO Organic Reusable Cotton Cloth Pads
Want a reusable and sustainable option? Think ECO's organic cotton pads have high absorbency thanks to their five layers of organic cotton. Just wrap the pad around your panty gusset and snap it securely.
5. U by Kotex Security Feminine Maxi Pads
U by Kotex Security offers period protection for up to 10 hours. They're specially crafted with material that absorbs liquid in seconds to help keep you dry. Front to back adhesive helps the pad stay in place while you move.
6. Stayfree Maxi Pads for Women
You don't have to pay a lot to stay protected. Stayfree's affordable maxi pads have four wall protection with 18 anti-leak channels to help keep you dry and protected during your day. A soft, quick absorbing cover feels comfortable against your skin and neutralizes odors.
Korin Miller
Korin Miller is a freelance writer specializing in general wellness, sexual health and relationships, and lifestyle trends, with work appearing in Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Self, Glamour, and more. She has a master’s degree from American University, lives by the beach, and hopes to own a teacup pig and taco truck one day.