Leaks happen: a no-panic guide

Every person who has periods has had a leak. Every single one. It is just blood, and it washes out. The NHS suggests tying a sweatshirt around your waist and keeping a spare pair of pants in your bag.

Preventing leaks

• Check you have the right size or absorbency for the day.
• Change on time. ACOG says to change pads and tampons at least every 4 to 8 hours, and more often when your flow is heavy.
• Use backup, like period pants under a tampon or cup, on heavy days.
• Try longer or winged pads overnight.
• For cups and discs, check the seal, and empty more often on heavy days. ACOG says cups should be emptied every 8 to 12 hours.
• Remember that nothing is leak-proof in every situation. A bit of spare cover is smart.

Getting stains out

1. Rinse in cold water as soon as you can. Hot water can set blood stains.
2. Rub with a little soap or stain remover.
3. Wash as normal, and check the stain has gone before tumble drying.