[MichellyBird]

So I've had my period for about five years. I've had the the nexplanon birth control for a year now. This is the first period ive ever had where I've experienced (as i've researched it) pad rash. I've also seen that it could also be a yeast infection. I have tan skin (hispanic and filipina) and down there it is so RED and RAW. It sort of reaches down to the butthole. When I feel down there, I can feel the raw skin, but I also feel rough scabby skin. I picked at it and it comes off just like a scab, but in small white flakes. Is this pad rash or a yeast infection? (Im off my period now, and now that im not wearing a pad its not NEARLY as irritating). Any info would help. THANKS!

[Little]

It sounds like a pad rash, but that doesn't mean it's not also a yeast infection. Make sure to change your pad regularly even if you still "feel" dry and be gentle with your skin down there before and during your period. You might also try some diaper rash cream to treat the rash - it makes a moisture barrier so that your skin doesn't get even more irritated.

[azalea]

Ouch ouch That sounds terrible. I used to get terrible irritation from pads, mostly from the moisture they held against my skin.

Have you considered using cloth pads? I use cloth pads when I'm not wearing a tampon. They breathe a lot more than disposable pads and are much softer against the skin. You can find them all over Etsy, my favorite is from PinkLemonadeShop. I soak them for just a bit to loosen up the blood, and then throw them in with the wash.

For overall hygiene, I highly recommend getting a shower head with a removable hose so that you can really get it clean down there. It's worked wonders for me in terms of reducing rashes and irritation in between my legs, just by getting a much better clean.

If you shave your pubic hair, maybe try switching from normal shaving cream to something more moisturizing, like coconut oil.