Had a long in depth discussion with the GF about the entire situation. she told me she does like me in lingerie but understands when i decline her requests. She doesn't "need" me in them but she does "like" me in them. Her explanation for the pad suggestion was to better 'share' that time of the month and if i didn't feel comfortable with it, it was OK. In actuality i will admit i don't mind wearing panties now & then or even dressing in lingerie, the sex is fantastic! So for now we seem to have an understanding and more open discussion and enlightened information. Now it's just wait and see how she handles the rarer occasions of me in that wardrobe.