Youve got options, and at the end of the day its your period, your prerogative. Plus, today you can find reusable cups, washable pads, and period-proof panties, among other things. Do tampons really make cramps worse? Wash your hands and get into a comfortable position. If you do this, you increase your chances of getting a serious medical condition called toxic shock syndrome (TSS). "Super" generally means that variety is for heavy flow. Additionally, some female swimmers will choose to refrain from swimming during their period altogether, opting for other forms of physical activity such as yoga or light running. Together, we can build a world where people aren't defined by what hygiene product they have between their legs. Most menstrual pads are made of absorbent material like cotton and super absorbent polymer. Its important to remember to do this because you can sometimes forget you are using one. You dont need to be a tampon user to see the obvious pros of tampons. Overwhelmed by the ever-growing world of period underwear? Tampons post a slightly greater risk than pads, as theyve been linked to toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare but potentially fatal infection caused by a buildup of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria in the vagina. Sometimes, pads are called sanitary pads or sanitary napkins. You dont have to worry about them being visible (minus the whole issue of tampon strings in swimsuit). It is absolutely normal to not want to use tampons! The FDA also advises that tampons be left in your body for a maximum of 8 hours. While there are a plethora of options to choose from, including period panties and menstrual cups, many first-time menstruators will begin with tampons and menstrual pads. Can a tampon get lost inside my body? An applicator with a rounded top can be especially helpful for beginners. Tampons are cylindrical inserts that go inside your vagina, whereas pads are absorbent linings designed to stick to your underwear. Like pads, tampons come in different sizes for heavier and lighter periods. Aside from the benefits, some women may prefer a menstrual cup over tampons because they find it to be more comfortable, they are eco-friendly, and they are free of harsh chemicals. How often should I change my tampon? We break down why they don't and offer tips for soothing cramps regardless of what's causing them. A tampon is made of absorbent material similar to a pad. Part of the reason it took so long for these alternatives to finally catch on, said Siriouthay, is the cultural stigma around menstruation. Change the pad about every 34 hours. It used to be primarily associated with using super-absorbent tampons. Alternate between tampons and pads when your flow is light. To Padable, tampon and pad-users everywhere: we're proud of you too. But while Chinese women have embraced the convenience and comfort of the modern, disposable sanitary pad since its introduction to the Chinese mainland in the 1980s, tampons which by nature allow women to participate in more strenuous activities than pads have yet to catch on. On her off time, she's probably watching Ru Paul's Drag Race, traversing NYC for the best donuts, or, most likely, enjoying time in her favorite place in the world: her bed. Tampons are associated with an increased risk of a rare condition called toxic shock syndrome. Ahhh, the age-old dilemma of tampons vs. pads. And some girls with heavy periods use tampons together with pads or pantiliners for added protection against leakage. Reusable cloth pads are washable pads that work like regular disposable pads, only you dont throw them out. Heres a look at all the pros and cons of the most popular menstrual products. The Best Period Underwear Options for Any Situation. Tampons also come in different sizes meant for both heavy and light blood flows. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), however, advises against reusable tampons, as they are more likely to cause fungal, yeast, or bacterial infections. Just as Americans are often horrified to arrive in Australia and discover that we mostly go applicatorless, for many women even those who have read the Female Eunuch there just isnt a desire to get closer to ones uterus lining. A 2000 study by Procter & Gamble found only 2 percent of women in Mexico plugged up during their time of month; the figure improved only slightly in a 1990 Public Health Report survey that showed . Its extremely important to change your tampon every 4 to 6 hours. You can also reduce waste by choosing tampons without applicators. But a small, angry, and vocal minority of tampon users outshout everyone else. Tampons are cylindrical vagina inserts made out of cotton, rayon, or a mix of both materials. Given their way, this sisterhood might even deify Chinese Olympic bronze medallist Fu Yuanhui. Nothing could be more personal, more intimate, than how women manage their periods. For those with sensitive skin, irritation or discomfort may occur due to tampon fibers and material, which are often harsher than those in pads. Ultimately, talk to your GP to find the best and safest product for you. The period game is about more than tampons vs. pads. The cervix which is a tissue seen at the opening at the top of the vagina is too tiny for your tampon to pass through. mess. If you have a heavy flow like me, I would suggest a system like this or wear an extra absorbent, extra-long pad, she said.
Tampons vs Pads: Which Menstrual Product is Right for You? Id also often hear Ive never used tampons confessions. They also come in deodorant varieties, but these can irritate the vagina.
You have to insert it into your vagina with your fingers or an applicator that holds the tampon inside it. Tampons are inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual fluid and can be a very effective means of controlling the level of flow during a menstrual cycle. It is important to take the time to get comfortable, to use the right size tampon for your body, to use a water-based lubricant, and to practice relaxation techniques. Many girls start out using pads, but might want to use tampons when they do sports or go swimming. However, some brands of pads can contain synthetic materials and fragrances, which can lead to skin irritation or hypersensitivity reactions depending on the users skin type. The best way to reduce the environmental impact is to choose reusable menstrual options, like period panties or menstrual cups. While in the West its been a very long time since Courtney Cox taught us about internal protection, or since those so white horseriding and windsurfing commercials aired, many women in China report never having heard of tampons or, at the very least, not knowing anyone who uses them. From reducing waste to recycling and upcycling, our e-book shows simple ways to make choices you can feel good about. Many female swimmers will also take ibuprofen or a similar anti-inflammatory medication to help manage pain and discomfort caused by the period. Scented pads and tampons can actually mess with your vagina's natural pH and cause problems including bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. Fast facts: Nine things you didn't know about menstruation. Pads have the advantages of being easy to use and better for heavy periods, but you can't swim in them and they may be visible under certain types of clothing. Again, the decision is totally up to you and if you're still not sure which way to go, try out both and see what you like best. The choice to use tampons, pads, or a combination of both is a personal one. Free bleeding is having your period without wearing tampons, pads, or any other fluid barriers. Ultimately, the decision of which product is more healthy comes down to personal preference. I prefer pads over tampons for a variety of reasons. The amount of flow can vary from person to person and is affected by menstrual cycles, but a flow that is too heavy for a tampon can cause frequent changing, discomfort, and even leaks. Many period products contain plastics and harmful chemicals. It is also suggested that menstrual cups are a better alternative for reducing the risk of TSS and other infections. Others find menstrual pads less comfortable. Perhaps it's because menstrual pads, unlike tampons, bring the user into closer contact with their own menstrual fluids -- one of the most despised fluids on the planet. I usually wear pads, just rather have the . You may need to test a few different sizes and experiment before picking the tampon thats right for you.. For example, if youre going for 6 hours without needing to change your tampon, you may need to switch to a tampon for a lighter flow.. Due to their size and the way that they are inserted, tampons can only hold a limited amount of menstrual blood before needing to be changed. You should not use pads with fragrances as they're unnecessary and can irritate your vagina. Yuanhuis story stood out for me not because of the cramps, but for the swimming-while-bleeding possibility. (2019).
Why men should buy tampons - BBC News Moreover, many people find pads to be more cost effective than tampons since they generally need to be replaced less frequently. In truth, virginity is a cultural category that some people use to define whether weve had sex. But when the sticky backing pulls at your pubes, its back to tampons again. ", Sure, #NotAllTamponUsers discriminate. Asking for tampons, complaining about tampons, saying they were better than pads because pads are like diapers. Its not right that tampons are culturally the 'best' and often 'only' period option. May be better for heavy periods: Women and girls who have heavy periods have to change their menstrual hygiene product more often than others. Some people simply may feel uncomfortable with inserting a foreign object into the body and prefer to use other forms of feminine hygiene products such as pads. Free bleeding is simply the practice of not using any kind of period protection, such as tampons or pads, to absorb menstrual blood. They're soft, they're flexible, and they're even more adept than paper towels at cleaning up dog piss on the floor. It is important for individuals to experiment with different menstrual products and discuss their experiences with their health care provider to determine which product is right for them. More U.S. women use pads than tampons, according to a survey of 739 women conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). But nearly a century into commercial tampon availability in the West, where does our pad preference come from? Tampons, in their minds, are sleek, sophisticated feminine hygiene products made for modern women who have lots of sex. With only 2% of the population using tampons, she provided information about options. Yes, a flow can be too heavy for tampons. While most people who menstruate have had that moment of awkwardness, we dont have to miss our favorite activities for a week every month if we dont want to.
Tampons vs. Pads: Which Option is Better for You? | The Pill Club - Favor There are, however, some common considerations that menstruators may want to think about when choosing the best products for them, including safety, comfort, lifestyle, and environmental impact. Choosing the right menstrual product can be particularly challenging for people with heavy flows.
14 Tampon Size FAQ: Comparison Chart, Types, Fit, Ease of - Healthline Then try a pad. Just throw one in and you're good to go for a few hours, whether you're swimming, playing sports, or sitting down to take your final exams. In the broader world, however and most certainly in the blokey realm of professional sport to bring blood out of the bathroom and into a mixed-company, live Olympic broadcast was outright shocking.
The Best Period Underwear, Cups, Pads, and Products (2023) - WIRED .css-azif86{color:#000000;display:block;font-family:GTWalsheim,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-weight:bold;margin-bottom:0.3125rem;margin-top:0;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}@media (any-hover: hover){.css-azif86:hover{color:link-hover;}}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-azif86{font-size:1.125rem;line-height:1.3;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-azif86{font-size:1rem;line-height:1.3;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-azif86{font-size:1.125rem;line-height:1.3;}}Are There Different Types of Vaginas? It also helps to first try a tampon on a heavier flow day, so that the tampon slips in easier. Many people with vaginas have been brought up to experience shame around our menstruation. It took Siriouthay some time to figure out a menstrual care system that worked for her. Lastly, there may be religious or cultural concerns that discourage or prohibit the use of tampons. See you at your inbox! When deciding whether to use pads or tampons, it's really up to you. Jose Garcia, from Miami, Florida, posted his message on Instagram . Bacterial vaginosis is a kind of vaginal inflammation that happens when bacteria found naturally in your vagina overgrow. If you have any concerns or questions about your period, talk to your mom, dad, or doctor. You can get all different kinds of pads, from panty liners to some heavy-duty ones, depending on your flow and how often you want to change them.
Teaching Your Tween How to Use Tampons - Verywell Family Despite asbestos not being an ingredient in any tampons wed buy in countries such as Australia or the US, such myths wont die. It can take some time for you to experiment with what products are right for you. Pads can come in different sizes. Let's stop playing and make it happen. Don't try to flush a pad down the toilet they're too big and may back up the toilet and make a huge (embarrassing!) Alternatively, you can stand to insert a tampon, placing one foot on a higher surface such as a toilet seat. A time when Girlfriend and Dolly were only seemed to publish stories about toxic shock syndrome. To help you decide which is right for you, we broke down the pros and cons of both options, but remember: ultimately, the decision is yours. Many women use menstrual cups as an eco-friendly alternative to tampons. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. ", OB-GYN University of Colorado: "How To Insert A Tampon. An extension of this are vaguer tampons-make-you-sick fears. Required fields are marked *. I prefer pads over tampons for a variety of reasons.