Wearing Two Period Pads at Once? What You Need to Know24 January 2024 | Admin As always with many of our blog posts this article was inspired by another article online. In this case a woman showing her 'hack' of wearing two pads at once for super heavy periods. At Cheeky we've been all about 'Simple Reusables' since we launched our reusable wipes kits back in 2008, followed swiftly by our range of reusable period products, so we know a LOT about dealing with periods. In this article, we'll look at why you might consider wearing two pads during your time of the month, risks and alternatives that we think work better. Can I Wear Two Pads at Once?Yes, you can wear two period pads at once. However, it's going to be uncomfortable and could lead to developing pad rash or irritation. Layering pads is also bulky and less breathable, potentially causing chafing and uneven absorption. Why Consider Wearing Two Period Pads?If you suffer with endometriosis, menorrhagia or have a couple of exceptionally heavy days for a couple of days of your period, you might feel the need for extra protection. Some people wear two pads to enhance absorption and prevent leaks, providing an added layer of confidence during busy or active periods. No one likes waking up in a bloodbath! Wearing two pads seems easier than having to change the bedsheets. For people working shifts, on jobs where toilet breaks can be tricky, or in situations where access to toilets is limited, such as during long journeys, some people wear two pads to reduce the need for frequent changes. Potential Risks of Wearing Two Period PadsWhile wearing two pads may seem like a practical solution, it's essential to be aware of potential risks and health problems: Wearing two pads can lead to increased friction and pad rash. The rubbing of the pads against each other or against your skin can cause chafing, irritation, and even rub holes in your skin. Not pleasant. Pads are designed to be breathable to prevent moisture buildup and irritation. Wearing two pads may compromise this breathability, creating a damp environment that could contribute to infections, UTI's and thrush. Layering pads may result in uneven absorption, with the top pad absorbing most of the menstrual flow while the bottom pad remains underutilized. This uneven distribution can lead to leaks and compromise the overall effectiveness of the pads. Doubling up on pads is bulky! It might be noticeable under your clothes and affect your ability to move freely, especially during physical activities. This could cause discomfort and self-consciousness. Alternatives to "Doubling Up"Period pants are a brilliant alternative to wearing two pads, and can also be worn in addition to a pad or menstrual cup to give double protection without bulk. These specially designed undergarments have built-in absorbent layers that effectively manage menstrual flow. Period pants come in various styles and absorbency levels, and are super comfortable to wear on your period, providing a customizable and leak-resistant solution for individuals with heavier periods. Explore our range of period pants. "Oh I’m so glad I’ve found Cheeky Wipes period pants! I’ve tried so many brands and genuinely none compare. They are super high waisted, very much appreciated with a C section mum-tum. They are classy, comfortable and super absorbent. I have two very heavy days and the heavy flow pants do not leak, ever. The light ones are perfect for the rest of the week. It’s a game changer all round! No more pads, tampons, worries or wasted money! Don’t bother with any other brand, these are such good value, well made, reliable and pretty too. Thank you!" Trustpilot Review Higher absorbency pads is another alternative to consider. Many sanitary pad brands offer products with superior absorbent capabilities, specifically designed for heavier flows. These pads are engineered to absorb multiple pad or tampons worth of blood without the need for layering, offering a more streamlined and comfortable solution. Reusable pads are also worth considering. In a recent series of blogposts written by our customers with heavy menstrual bleeding, they highly rated our bamboo plush pads for super heavy absorbency. Explore our cotton and bamboo plush options here. Our article 'the best pads for heavy periods' and 'how to choose the right sanitary pad' may also be useful. "I really like cheeky wipe products. Their washable/reusable pads are much comfier than the perfumed plasticky disposables that irritate my skin and they work just as well. And the initial higher cost outlay pays for itself surprisingly quickly x" Trustpilot Review
The menstrual cup is a popular and eco-friendly alternative to traditional pads or panty liners. Made of medical-grade silicone, the cup is inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual flow. Menstrual cups can offer long-lasting protection without the discomfort associated with wearing multiple pads and have a lower risk of toxic shock syndrome (tss) than tampons. Toxic shock syndrome can be life threatening, and it's important to wash your hands before inserting a tampon or menstrual cup to lower the risk of infection. Menstrual cups are reusable, reducing environmental impact and saving you money in the long run. Learn more about menstrual cups and their benefits here. Instead of doubling up, consider changing your tampon or pad more frequently, especially on heavy blood flow days. Regular changes help maintain freshness and prevent leaks without the need for layering. "Really happy with these period pants. They are so comfortable and look great too with the lace detail and bright colours. I went for one pink pair and one green. I had only bought cheeky pads before but love that I can use both together and having the full padded strip is good added protection. I'll never go back to disposable products." Trustpilot Review SummaryWhile wearing two period pads at once is technically possible, it's not the most comfortable or effective solution. Period pants, higher absorbency pads, menstrual cups (or any combination of these) and changing more regularly, can provide better protection and enhance overall comfort during your menstrual cycle. Recommended Heavy Flow Period Pants3 for £30
5 for £45
7 for £56 |
 | 3 for £30
5 for £45
7 for £56 |
.jpg) | 3 for £30
5 for £45
7 for £56 |
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If you have very heavy periods, we hope that this blog post offers some alternatives to wearing two pads at onve. As always, if you have any questions, please do drop us an email, we LOVE to help and nothing is TMI. The team all use the products themselves so are well placed to give advice. If you'd like some further reading, we can recommend: About the Author: Helen Rankin founded Cheeky Wipes, the original reusable wipes kit back in 2008 after disposable wipes caused her eczema to flare up. 4 kids later, internal period protection such as tampons or menstrual cups were no longer an option for her and she went on to develop their range of 'Simple Reusables' to include period pants and reusable incontinence pads. The Company was recognised for their hard work in developing environmentally friendly products with the Queens Award in Enterprise for Sustainable Development in 2021. | 
