Comfort during menstruation is largely determined by the quality of sanitary napkins. Good quality sanitary napkins are safe on the skin, do not cause irritation or leakage. However, also pay attention to the expiration date of sanitary napkins. Because just like diapers and products that you use every day, sanitary napkins also have an expiration date. You should know the characteristics of expired sanitary napkins.

Characteristics of expired sanitary napkins

Using expired sanitary napkins can be harmful to your health as the ingredients in them may no longer be effective or even become a breeding ground for bacteria. Here are some characteristics of expired sanitary napkins:

Odor Change

Expired sanitary napkins may have an unusual or unpleasant odor. This odor could be a sign that the sanitary napkins have been exposed to excessive air or moisture.

Color Change

Expired sanitary napkins may experience a change in color, either becoming more yellowish or looking darker than usual. This could be an indication that the material in the sanitary pad has oxidized or deteriorated.

Dryness

Expired sanitary pads may feel drier and stiffer than usual. This can be caused by the loss of elasticity of the material inside the sanitary napkin due to exposure to air or moisture.

Loss of Absorbency

If a sanitary pad no longer absorbs blood as well as it used to, it could be a sign that it is expired. Expired pads may not be able to retain as much liquid as new ones.

Damaged Packaging

If the packaging is damaged or torn, this could be a sign that the pads have been exposed to air and may no longer be sterile. Opened sanitary pads can result in a buildup of bacteria or mold.

Expiration Date

Not all sanitary pads have a clear expiration date printed on the packaging, but if they do, make sure to check if the sanitary pad is within the expiration date before use.

If you find a sanitary napkin with any of the above characteristics, it is advisable not to use it and choose a new and unexpired sanitary napkin to maintain your health and safety.

Can I Use Expired Sanitary Napkins?

It is not recommended to use expired sanitary napkins. While some may think that expired sanitary pads can still be used in emergency situations, the risks may outweigh the benefits.

1. Here are some reasons why you should not use expired sanitary napkins:
2. Less effective at absorbing fluids and increases the risk of leakage.
3. Risk of infection due to bacteria or fungi that thrive on expired pads.
4. Causes skin irritation due to chemical or physical changes in old pads.
5. Increases the risk of reproductive health problems.

So, you should always check the expiration date of sanitary napkins before using them. (Aq/LDS)