How to get rid of period rashes?

Your period was going well, but suddenly you notice a mean rash between your thighs. You look down and find a pink or red patch on your skin - yes, the dreaded period rash has set in. Whether it’s itching, burning, or swelling, this discomfort can happen to anyone.

So, how do you get rid of a period rash? Let’s discuss the causes, prevention tips, and effective treatments for long-lasting relief.

What Is a Period Rash?

A period rash, also known as menstrual rash or sanitary pad rash, is an irritation or inflammation on the inner thighs or vulva area that occurs during menstruation. It is typically caused by prolonged friction, trapped moisture, or reaction to sanitary pad materials.

How Do You Get a Period Rash?

Traditional disposable pads are often made from plastic-based materials that do not allow proper air circulation. These pads remain pressed against your skin for several hours, trapping moisture from sweat and menstrual flow.

This warm, damp environment leads to redness, itching, swelling, and inflammation, resulting in rashes.

To minimize this risk, consider switching to pure cotton-made sanitary pads, such as Avni Natural Pads, which are made of 100% organic, breathable cotton.

Ways to Prevent Period Rashes

Let’s be real - period rashes can be painful and frustrating. But the good news is you can prevent them with a few simple yet effective changes.

1. Keep the Area Moisturized

Dry skin rubs more harshly against pads, leading to rashes. Maintain skin hydration using mild moisturizers like coconut oil or anti-chafing creams. You can also use baby diaper rash creams for gentle protection.

Tip: Apply moisturizers on your thighs, not directly on the vulva. Always perform a patch test or seek gynecological advice to ensure suitability.

2. Wear Breathable Cotton Panties

Opt for pure cotton underwear to reduce heat and friction. Cotton fabric is breathable, absorbs sweat, and keeps your intimate area dry. It allows better airflow, reducing chances of infection and irritation - especially during humid weather or workouts.

Choose well-fitting underwear that moves comfortably throughout the day.

3. Change Your Sanitary Pads Frequently

Changing your pad every 6-8 hours is key to preventing rashes. A soaked pad can irritate the skin and promote bacterial growth.

Always clean the vulva area using lukewarm water or alcohol-free intimate wipes before putting on a new pad.

If rashes persist after switching products, consult your gynecologist.

4. Try a Sitz Bath for Soothing Relief

If you notice a pustule or abscess (a patch filled with pus), taking a sitz bath can help.

A sitz bath is a warm, shallow soak for your perineal area that helps soothe irritation, reduce swelling, and promote healing.

You can buy sitz bath kits at most pharmacies. Sit for 5-10 minutes in warm water, then gently pat the area dry.

5. Use Unscented and Natural Menstrual Products

Scented sanitary pads often contain chemicals and artificial fragrances that can worsen irritation. Choose unscented, organic, or reusable alternatives to minimize inflammation.

If your rashes remain, consider switching to:

• Reusable cloth pads
• Menstrual cups
• And don’t worry - menstrual cups are safe to use and do not affect virginity.

Read more: Benefits vs Risks of Menstrual Cups & Tampons

Related reads: 

1. What is a period cup?
2. Insert a Menstrual Cup With Ease: Folding Techniques
3. Top 7 Menstrual Cup Folding Techniques
4. Organic pads Vs Regular pads: Which is better?

When to See a Doctor?

1. If you continue experiencing redness, itching, or burning despite following these remedies, consult a gynecologist.
2. Sometimes, these rashes may indicate conditions like herpes or

   vaginal yeast infection. Your doctor may prescribe a medicated topical cream to alleviate inflammation.

3. Prompt treatment is essential - leaving a period rash untreated can lead to severe infections.

Quick Summary: How to Prevent Period Rashes

Period rashes make your menstrual days even harder, but they’re preventable.

Key steps to remember:

1. Keep the skin moisturized using safe creams or oils.
2. Use breathable, cotton-based sanitary pads and underwear.
3. Change your pad frequently (every 6–8 hours).
4. Take sitz baths to soothe irritation.
5. Avoid scented menstrual products or switch to reusable options.
6. Consult your doctor if discomfort continues.

By maintaining good period hygiene and using organic menstrual products, you can protect yourself from rashes, infections, and discomfort during your cycle.

Frequently Asked Questions?

1. What Causes Period Rashes from Sanitary Pads?

Period rashes typically result from friction between plastic-based pads and skin, combined with trapped moisture from sweat and menstrual flow during extended wear. This creates a warm, damp environment leading to redness, itching, or swelling, especially on inner thighs or vulva. Switching to breathable 100% organic cotton pads like Avni Natural Pads reduces this risk by improving airflow.

2. How Can I Get Rid of Period Rashes Quickly?

Apply mild moisturizers like coconut oil or anti-chafing creams to thighs (avoiding vulva), change pads every 6-8 hours, and clean with lukewarm water or alcohol-free wipes. For relief, try a sitz bath (warm soak for 5-10 minutes) to soothe inflammation; rashes often clear post-period, but persistent cases need a gynaecologist. Unscented pads prevent chemical irritation.

3. When Should I See a Doctor for Period Rash?

Consult a gynaecologist if rashes persist beyond your period, show pus/blisters, or include symptoms like abnormal discharge, as they may signal yeast infections, herpes, or bacterial issues requiring medicated creams. Untreated rashes can worsen into infections. Always rule out allergies to pad materials first.