Traveling With Pads: Setting Off Airport Security?

It's a common worry that period products will set off airport security, but there's no need to panic. Although pads might show up on body scanners, this doesn't mean you'll automatically be subjected to additional screening. Scanners can easily distinguish between menstrual products and weapons or other dangerous items. Airport staff are used to dealing with this situation, and you can also request a private screening if you're concerned about discretion.

Pads are unlikely to set off airport security

Although it is possible for pads to set off airport security, it is unlikely. This is because pads are a common item and airport security staff are used to seeing them. Additionally, security staff receive sensitivity training and are aware that many passengers will be wearing pads.

Body Scanners

Body scanners are used to detect anomalies on a person, rather than specifically screening for liquids. However, pads may be detected by these scanners. One source states that body scanners can easily distinguish between menstrual products and weapons or other guns. Another source says that the scanners are not looking at what is between your legs, but rather for any bulges or anomalies.

TSA Notification Card

If you are concerned about the possibility of setting off airport security, you can use the TSA Notification Card. This card can be printed from the TSA website and handed to the agent at the checkpoint to communicate that you have a health condition that might affect your screening.

TSA Cares Program

The TSA Cares program provides Passenger Support Specialists who are trained to ensure that customers are comfortable with the screening process and are familiar with most medical conditions. You can request their support 72 hours in advance by calling 255.787.2227, Monday through Friday from 9 am to 9 pm EST.

Private Screening

Any passenger can request a private screening and bring a friend or family member with them. This can alleviate fears of being "outed" for wearing pads in front of other passengers.

TSA Precheck Program

If you meet the program eligibility requirements, you can sign up for TSA Precheck. This program allows low-risk passengers to go through expedited security screening, often through a walk-through metal detector which won't detect pads.

Problems and Complaints

If you have a negative experience with any TSA checkpoint or agent, you can report it at www.tsa.gov. These complaints are transmitted to the leadership team at the airport and each one is addressed.

TSA agents receive sensitivity training

All new TSA officers are required to undergo basic training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Georgia. This training includes two phases. Phase 1 focuses on basic technical skills and fundamental knowledge, including detecting terrorist threats, effective communication, dealing with individuals with disabilities and/or medical conditions, and handling sensitive information. Phase 2 focuses on official standard operating procedures and threat detection via physical demonstrations, computer-based X-ray simulators, and classroom lectures.

In addition to these phases, TSA officers also receive training on screening checkpoint labs, where they have access to all the gear and equipment they might need on the job. This includes training on X-ray operations, operating machinery while scanning for explosives, body searches, and searching baggage.

One important aspect of TSA officer training is sensitivity training. This includes topics such as dealing with individuals with disabilities and/or medical conditions, as well as effective communication and handling sensitive information. TSA officers are trained to handle a variety of situations, including those that may involve passengers with special needs or concerns, such as those related to menstrual pads.

Menstrual pads are not a new concept to airport security and TSA officers. Body scanners used at airports can easily distinguish between menstrual products and weapons or other prohibited items. TSA officers are trained to respect the privacy and dignity of all passengers, regardless of their gender or medical conditions. They are also trained to handle situations involving passengers with anxiety or other mental health concerns.

In conclusion, TSA agents receive comprehensive sensitivity training to ensure they can effectively and respectfully handle a variety of situations, including those involving passengers with menstrual pads, disabilities, or medical and mental health concerns. This training is designed to promote professionalism and credibility in their interactions with travelers and to ensure the safety and security of all individuals passing through airport security.

TSA Cares program provides Passenger Support Specialists

Menstrual pads are unlikely to set off airport security. Body scanners can easily distinguish between menstrual products and weapons or other dangerous items.

If you have concerns about the security screening process, the TSA Cares program provides Passenger Support Specialists (PSS). PSS officers have received specialized training on how to effectively assist and communicate with individuals with disabilities or medical conditions, as well as passengers who need additional screening assistance.

You can request the services of a PSS by completing the TSA Cares form or by calling TSA Cares at (855) 787-2227 at least 72 hours before your departure. Requesting PSS service does not exempt you from security screening, but it can help ensure that your security experience is smoother.

Examples of situations where you may want to request PSS assistance include:

• Difficulty following instructions due to a disability or medical condition.
• Having internal or external devices that may affect your ability to use screening technology.
• Traveling with medically necessary liquids, gels, or aerosols over 3.4 ounces.
• Traveling with a child who has a disability or medical condition.
• Traveling with a service animal.
• Difficulty understanding and communicating in English.
• Traveling with religious, cultural, sacred, or spiritual items that require special handling.
• Traveling with crematory remains.

Request a private screening

If you are selected for a pat-down at airport security, you can request a private screening. This means that the screening will take place in a private room, accompanied by a companion of your choice, and a second officer of the same gender will always be present.

You may also request a private screening if you need to remove a body piercing, or if you are wearing a head covering, loose-fitting or bulky clothing.

If you are transgender, you will be screened as the gender you present as at the security checkpoint. If you would like to request a private screening, you can do so at any time during the screening process.

TSA Precheck Program

The TSA PreCheck Program is a service that allows travellers to go through a faster security screening process at the airport. Members of the program can keep their shoes, laptops, liquids, belts and light jackets on them while they go through security.

To enrol in the program, you must be a U.S. citizen, national or lawful permanent resident, and void of any criminal records. The application process involves an online form and an in-person appointment at an enrolment centre. At the appointment, you will be required to hand over documents for review, go through a background check and provide your fingerprints. The non-refundable fee for the program is $78, which can be paid by credit card, money order or cheque.

The TSA PreCheck Program is valid for five years, and 99% of members wait less than 10 minutes to pass through airport security. Children aged 12 and under can join a parent or guardian in the TSA PreCheck lane without needing their own PreCheck number. Children aged 13-17 can also join without their own number, but they must have the TSA PreCheck indicator on their boarding pass.

Several credit cards offer statement credits that can be used to reimburse the application fee for the program. These include the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card, the United℠ Explorer Card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card.

Frequently asked questions