Always Pads: Skin Reactions, Hormonal Balance, and When to Test
By Dr Lauren Holland | Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, London
Recent discussions online about Always pads and potential skin irritation have raised questions about how menstrual products can affect women’s health.
While most pads and liners are considered safe, some individuals experience itching, burning, or allergic reactions, particularly with prolonged use or certain materials.
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre (MDC), we help women understand whether their symptoms are caused by skin sensitivity, hormonal imbalance, or an underlying health condition – through quick, confidential, and QC-validated testing.
What Causes Reactions to Sanitary Pads?
Sanitary pads may contain synthetic fibres, fragrances, or adhesives that can irritate delicate skin, especially during menstruation when the pH and moisture levels change.
Common causes include:
- Contact dermatitis – a local allergic reaction to chemicals or fragrances.
- Friction and moisture build-up – leading to chafing and bacterial growth.
- Material sensitivity – especially to plastics or gels in ultra-thin pads.
These reactions can be uncomfortable but are usually not serious — and they can be avoided with awareness and proper testing.
Hormones and Skin Sensitivity
Many women notice worsening irritation around their menstrual cycle.
This is often linked to hormonal changes in oestrogen and progesterone, which affect:
- Skin barrier strength
- Sebum (oil) production
- Immune and inflammatory responses
When hormones fluctuate abnormally, the skin can become more reactive — even to everyday products.
At MDC, our Female Hormone & Allergy Profiles can identify whether these sensitivities are hormonal, allergic, or both.
Tests Available at MDC
Allergy Profile
Checks immune reactivity to environmental and chemical allergens — including preservatives and fragrance compounds often found in personal care products.
Female Hormone Profile
Measures oestrogen, progesterone, LH, FSH, and testosterone to understand cyclical balance and skin-related changes.
Inflammation & Immune Markers
Includes CRP and ESR to assess inflammatory response and tissue sensitivity.
Vitamin & Mineral Levels
Identifies nutritional deficiencies (zinc, vitamin D, B-complex) that may worsen skin healing or immunity.
All testing is QC-validated under the Marylebone High Standard, ensuring precision and clinical reliability.
When to Get Tested
You should consider testing if you experience:
- Recurrent irritation or rash in the genital area
- Swelling, itching, or burning after using pads or liners
- Worsening symptoms before or after menstruation
- Unexplained fatigue or hormonal symptoms (e.g. irregular cycles, acne, hair changes)
How MDC Helps
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre, we combine science and sensitivity to help you find answers quickly and discreetly:
- Results within 24-42 hours
- Doctor-led consultations to interpret your results
- Private women-only suites available for comfort and confidentiality
- QC-validated accuracy under the Marylebone High Standard
Prevention & Self-Care Tips
- Choose unscented, organic cotton pads or menstrual cups.
- Change pads every 3–4 hours to reduce moisture and irritation.
- Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers.
- Avoid tight synthetic clothing during menstruation.
- Stay hydrated and eat zinc-rich foods for skin repair.
FAQs
Book Your Women’s Health & Allergy Profile Today
If you’re experiencing irritation, hormonal imbalance, or unexplained fatigue, book a Women’s Health Test today at Marylebone Diagnostic Centre.
73 Baker Street, London W1U 6RD
+44 7495 970109
Monday–Saturday | 08:00 – 16:00
5-minute walk from Baker Street Tube
Results within 24-42 hours | QC validated | Tested to the Marylebone High Standard
