Being even more discomforted in a current discomfort is just unsettling. During menstruation, having blood slowly seep out of you or sometimes gush out of you can be such a drag. Another dreaded thing that can occur during menstruation is chafing.
Chafing is when the skin gets irritated from rubbing against something, like other skin or clothing. During menstruation, chafing often happens because pads or liners can cause more moisture and friction in the groin and inner thigh areas. That’s just very uncomfortable. This article is focused on preventing and soothing chafing during menstruation.
The Causes
The main cause of chafing during menstruation is due to an increased level of friction and moisture. Menstrual discharge and sweating increases the moisture in the groin and inner thigh areas. This makes these areas soft and susceptible to damage.
Now with these moisture soften these areas, as you move, your skin rubs against itself or against pads and panty liners. This constant rubbing creates friction which can irritate and wear down the skin.
How To Prevent Chafing And Pad Rash
- Take a shower twice a day with warm water and a gentle soap to keep clean.
- Change your pads or tampons regularly to avoid too much moisture build up.
- After washing, gently pat the vulvar area dry instead of rubbing it to avoid irritating the skin.
- Wear underwear and pants made from cotton to keep the area dry.
- Wearing a fabric like silk will cause sweat to be trapped between the fabric and your skin, leading to sweat build up.
- Choose looser clothes to reduce skin rubbing.
- Put a thin layer of petroleum jelly or zinc oxide on the external vulvar area to reduce friction.
- Use period panties with built-in liners for extra protection.
How To Soothe An Existing Chaf
- Clean the affected area with warm water and a fragrance-free cleanser to avoid further irritation.
- Whenever possible, allow the area to breathe to promote healing.
- Apply hypoallergenic (sensitive skin-friendly), fragrance-free ointments to soothe the skin.
- Avoid using harsh soaps, douches, and wearing tight clothing, as these can aggravate the chafing.
Conclusion
Chafing is when the skin gets irritated from rubbing against something, like other skin or clothing. The main cause of chafing during menstruation is due to an increased level of friction and moisture.
This often happens because pads or liners can cause more moisture and friction in the groin and inner thigh areas. You can take preventive measures like taking a shower twice a day with warm water and a gentle soap to keep clean. Changing your pads or tampons regularly to avoid too much moisture build up.
