Can sanitary pads stop bleeding?
Nov 12, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Introduction
Generally speaking, sanitary pads are meant for menstrual hygiene and cannot stop bleeding. The primary function of sanitary pads is to absorb blood, not to control bleeding. Sanitary pads are hygiene products used by women during menstruation. If a woman experiences abnormally heavy or prolonged bleeding during her period, she should seek medical attention promptly rather than relying on sanitary pads to manage the issue.
Generally speaking, sanitary pads are designed to absorb menstrual blood rather than stop bleeding. Their primary function is absorption, not hemostasis. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Sanitary pads are hygiene products used by women during menstruation. They are typically made of cotton, non-woven fabric, pulp, or a composite of these materials combined with polymer-based superabsorbent polymers and polymer composite papers. Menstruation occurs due to the cyclical changes in female hormones—estrogen and progesterone—which cause the uterine lining to shed and bleed. The main purpose of sanitary pads is to absorb menstrual blood, keep underwear dry, and prevent leakage or side spillage, thereby allowing women to feel more comfortable and confident during their period.
Therefore, while sanitary pads can effectively absorb menstrual flow, they do not have any hemostatic effect. If a woman experiences abnormally heavy bleeding or prolonged bleeding during her period, she should seek medical attention promptly instead of relying solely on sanitary pads to manage the situation.
If a woman experiences any discomfort or unusual symptoms, it is recommended that she visit a healthcare provider as soon as possible to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.
