Let’s face it, being on your period is already hard enough. You probably have to deal with cramps, mood swings, bloating and other combinations of uncomfortable symptoms. However, the pain that comes with the anxiety of a period leak at night is unmatched. Imagine having a long and busy day then feeling that trickle of blood in your sleep or waking up in a puddle of blood. It can be frustrating when you really want to sleep but you have to wake up and tend to your period leak. Since there’s nothing better than a goodnight's sleep, we will share some tips on how to avoid night leaks during your period.
What makes avoiding period leaks so difficult?
While experiencing a heavy flow during the first couple of days of your period is normal, it should not be the case throughout your entire period days. If you suspect that your flow is a bit heavier than usual, meaning you need to change your protection method after every hour or so, see a doctor. You can learn more about a heavy period here.
Additionally, if you are concerned that the colour of your period blood is odd, You can learn about the meaning of different period blood colours and what they mean. When it comes to leaks, the truth is no matter how long you have had your period, leaks happen and it is normal.
Here are a few reasons why they do:
Your period product is at maximum absorption
Wrong absorbency period products
Sleeping in the wrong positions
Your pad, tampon, or cup is not positioned correctly
Then how can I stop period leaks?
Some suggestions you could try are:
Choose the right period products for you
This comes with knowing your body and your flow. Do you tend to have a heavy period on the first days? How is the flow at night? If you are able to answer these questions the next thing would be to establish what’s capable of making you comfortable throughout the whole night. If it helps, consider covering your underwear by using two pads instead.
Choose the right underwear
Though not the cutest pair you own. Your period might call for the comfiest and what many refer to as “granny undies.” Ideally, It should provide ample coverage for any area that could contribute to leaking. Give your sexy kind a break for a few days. This also applies to the pyjama bottoms you choose to wear. They need to fit well to avoid movement. Another thing is to make sure they fit you well, if it’s too lose you’ll be allowing room for movement which could cause leaks.
Change your sanitary product right before you sleep
Whether you prefer pads, tampons or menstrual cups. It helps to change right before you sleep to provide the maximum amount of absorption from your period protection.
Sleeping position
You might not like to hear this but the truth is there’s no position that’ll guarantee you won’t leak during your period. However, sleeping on your side helps take pressure off your abdominal muscles and helps to relieve cramps, too. Sleeping face down can squeeze and cause blood to move around.
Prepare adequately
Here’s where period tracking comes in. When you track your period you will know when your next period is due and it helps you prepare the products and underwear you will use, as well as put in place any extra precautions such as dark towels for your sheets.
How to handle period leaks
Sometimes no matter how hard your try, you can’t always stop leaks from happening. So what happens when blood still seeps through? Are there proven and effective ways of removing stains? Here are a few methods to try:
Baking soda and water: If the stain has dried up, baking soda and water can be used to remove blood stains. Apply the paste for at least half an hour until it has disappeared
White vinegar: if you’ve got some in your kitchen, use white vinegar on the patch before it dries up. Leave it to soak for 5 – 10 mins while blotting until it’s lifted and wash in cold water
Salt and water: Creating a paste with salt and water can be effective when applied to the blood
In summary
Period leaks can be annoying and sometimes no matter what we do leaks still happen. Fortunately, if you follow the tips shared above there’s a chance you can avoid some of these leaks. Should the leak still happen, try some period leak hacks to get rid of blood stains.
Stay informed, stay in control Did you learn something?