Fast facts: Nine things you didn't know about menstruation. Before you ask: Yes, it's worth the price. With pads, there is less of a risk for dryness, irritation, and exposure to toxic shock syndrome since the pad does not need to be inserted into your body as a tampon does. A period so heavy that it prevents you from doing everyday activities isnt, A menstrual period is vaginal bleeding that occurs at the end of the monthly menstrual cycle. Insert the tampon: Gripping the applicator with your thumb and middle finger, push the smaller tube of the applicator with your index finger to move the tampon into the vagina. A tampon absorbs menstrual blood before it has a chance to come out of your body. Sit on the toilet. It also helps to first try a tampon on a heavier flow day, so that the tampon slips in easier. If you have really heavy periods, you may need to change it more than every 3 to 4 hours. Ultimately, what you need to know when it comes to different tampon sizes is that the size refers to its absorbency, not the actual length or width of. (2018). You cant wear them in thongs or G-strings, if thats your thing. In 2015, Euromonitor(Opens in a new tab), a market research firm, discovered that women aged 12-54 bought(Opens in a new tab), on average, 111 maxi pads in 2014 but just 66 tampons. 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. If youre comfortable using tampons, but not inserting them with your fingers, you may want to choose tampons with applicators. But they still can't get lost in your body. But a small, angry, and vocal minority of tampon users outshout everyone else. That depends. Or maybe it's because tampons are sleek and sexy, built like supermodels, and pads are broad-shouldered, aka, "body positive.". This can also happen from using pads, but it is much more rare. And we dont have to be embarrassed or ashamed of not wanting to do an activity because of our menstruation or menstrual cramps, either. They create less waste in landfills than disposable products. Discovery alleges that Paramount undercut their $500 million deal. You can expect to pay around $0.13 to $0.20 per tampon for a plastic applicator. Menstrual pads are apparently an extremely confusing product for young men, according to one of the latest viral trends sweeping TikTok right now. A new study found that menstrual cups were just as good, if not better, as disposable tampons and pads at preventing leaks. But I could never use tampons . Theyre more flexible and less bulky than most pads. The amount and duration of your period is determined by a variety of factors and usually does not change with free bleeding. Tampons expand as they absorb fluid, pushing against the vaginal canal, and this can actually contribute to cramp pain, said Siriouthay. Again, regular changing usually can manage any odor concerns. Yet walk into your hip start-up's office bathroom or your school nurse's bathroom and (if you're lucky) you'll find a free bucket of tampons. Any surfaces coming into contact with blood need to be properly disinfected. Your Privacy Choices: Opt Out of Sale/Targeted Ads. The material usually has small holes inside of it so it sucks the period blood into itself. Its also possible that you could be using the same tampon for too long. How often should I change my pad? If you do this, you increase your chances of getting a serious medical condition called toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Use the lowest absorbency tampon you can. Mashable is a registered trademark of Ziff Davis and may not be used by third parties without express written permission. They're also less visible under clothing. Only use tampons when you have your period. Tampons are not intended to be used at any other time or . Theyre more cost-effective in the long run. Then, wrap it in toilet paper, and throw it in the trash. Pads are rectangles of absorbent material that you stick to the inside of your underwear. Many users of the product are proudly tolerant or indifferent to the feminine hygiene choices of others. Also, no matter how thin your pad is, it may be visible under tight or minimal clothing., Pros. Some users find menstrual pads more comfortable because they prefer not to insert a product into their vaginas. The opening of the cervix (at the top of the vagina) is just too tiny for a tampon to get through. Firstly, pads are generally more comfortable to wear than tampons due to their design, allowing for more airflow and wicking away any moisture. Pads are a great option for women who dont like the idea of inserting anything inside their body. It . They are designed to stick on to your underwear and come in different sizes for heavy and light periods. You have to wash them, which can be messy, especially when youre out and about. 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. Your email address will not be published. I am the heavy flow queen, she said. Menstrual cups are a great alternative to tampons. If using a tampon, it is important to choose the right size, as well as keep up with changing and not letting the same tampon sit in the body for too long. .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? 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.. There are several different factors that go into every menstruators product choice. Overwhelmed by the ever-growing world of period underwear? This string is meant to sit outside your body so you can use it to pull it out when your tampon is full and needs changing., How do I choose the right tampon for me? greenhithe village. Dont be afraid to mix it up to accommodate the stages of your cycle. Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, Everything You Need to Know About Using Menstrual Cups. How often should I change my tampon? You can choose tampons made of non-plastic materials, like 100% organic cotton, and pads made of quickly regenerating materials like bamboo. They believe those who choose pads are weak, anachronistic, regressive. Despite asbestos not being an ingredient in any tampons wed buy in countries such as Australia or the US, such myths wont die. It used to be primarily associated with using super-absorbent tampons. Firstly, you might be using a tampon with a lower absorbency than is required for your menstrual flow. A lot of Nigerian women prefer pads because they are easy to use, and they offer external protection. Last medically reviewed on September 11, 2019. DOI: Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, And finally, gender-neutral menstrual products are now a thing, safecosmetics.org/get-the-facts/healthandscience/cumulative-exposure-and-feminine-care-products/, health.clevelandclinic.org/is-toxic-shock-syndrome-still-a-risk-3-things-you-should-know/, unicef.org/press-releases/fast-facts-nine-things-you-didnt-know-about-menstruation, youngwomenshealth.org/2013/03/28/period-products/, health.clevelandclinic.org/tired-of-tampons-here-are-pros-and-cons-of-menstrual-cups/, Menstrual Cups Work Just as Well as Tampons and Pads, How to Pick the Best Tampon Size for Your Needs. Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Pads are rectangle-shaped pieces of absorbent material which you can stick onto the inside of your underwear. For those watching in her motherland of China, Yuanhuis story was one of possibilities. Pads are also called sanitary pads or sanitary napkins. Thats something Siriouthay, who has menorrhagia, knows firsthand. Copyright 20102023, The Conversation Media Group Ltd. Chinese Olympic viewers were shocked Fu Yuanhui was swimming while she had her period since many have never heard of tampons. Because pads are simpler to use for menstruators who may not be comfortable inserting hygiene products into their vaginas, they are often the first menstrual hygiene products we are introduced to. Some women strongly prefer tampons over menstrual cups, and there's nothing wrong with thatjust be sure to bring enough tampons to last for your trip. Many period products contain plastics and harmful chemicals. They come in different absorbencies to accommodate light to heavy periods. Moreover, many people find pads to be more cost effective than tampons since they generally need to be replaced less frequently. 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. Carry disinfecting wipes with you in case blood gets on other surfaces. Tampons are a good option because they are small, nearly invisible, and swim-safe but they can be hard to insert and may carry the risk of vaginal irritation or toxic shock syndrome. "Super" generally means that variety is for heavy flow. 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. If a person experiences a heavy flow, it may be better to use a combination of tampons and pads, with tampons as the primary form of absorption and pads as extra absorption in the event of leaks. I'd speculate most Western countries have similar . When deciding whether to use pads or tampons, it's really up to you. Thanks for signing up. They can accommodate a light to medium flow. Allergies can also cause irritation, discomfort and other symptoms, so if you find that this is the case then its a good idea to consult your doctor. Pros. Like pads, tampons come in different sizes for heavier and lighter periods. In 2011, when I was writing a book about menstruation, women through zero prompting on my part would share their period stories and ask me incredibly elaborate questions (mistakenly under the impression I know anything at all about whats going on). You can also reduce waste by choosing tampons without applicators. If it continues to happen and youre concerned, its best to visit your doctor to rule out any more serious underlying issues. Many female swimmers will also take ibuprofen or a similar anti-inflammatory medication to help manage pain and discomfort caused by the period. If your periods are heavy, the cup may runneth over long before the 12 hours. From Super Light (half to a full tampon), Moderate-Heavy (2-3 tampons), to Maxi 24 hours (10 tampons), and levels in between, you can find exactly what you need for every day of your period. If you keep it in for longer, it can cause harmful bacteria to grow. We were accused of being "too afraid" to use tampons (hello, toxic shock syndrome! (Take it from someone whos endured the horror of watching her pad float on by while swimming with friends.). If youre a woman who enjoys this activity, tampons may be a better option. Plus, today you can find reusable cups, washable pads, and period-proof panties, among other things. It really depends on the person and what they prioritize in their menstrual care, said Siriouthay, who tests menstrual products. Seventeen picks products that we think you'll love the most. We've listed out some of the pros and cons of each product to help you decide for yourself. We avoid using tertiary references. The biggest downside to wearing tampons is the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TTS). I didn't turn gay or grow a vagina. One word of caution: frequently changing high-absorbency tampons can cause some vaginal chafing, so you may want to rely on high-absorbency pads or even menstrual cups. People with heavy periods and anyone who's ever woken up to a mess swears by them. Give a package of sanitary napkins a try! Because you can see it, it's also easy to remember when you have to change it. Should I use pads or disposable briefs for my incontinence? May be better for heavy periods: Women and girls who have heavy periods have to change their menstrual hygiene product more often than others. Heres a look at all the pros and cons of the most popular menstrual products. Impact of currently marketed tampons and menstrual cups on Staphylococcus aureus growth and toxic shock syndrome toxin 1 production in vitro. ", Sure, #NotAllTamponUsers discriminate. Here are some tips and tricks to help you find the answer to "Wordle" #623. Pad users, I learned, belonged to an abject underclass: a derelict group of pseudo-humans who enjoyed sitting in "mushy blood diapers" every 28 days. Tampons are compact and easy to transport especially if you go without the applicator, said Siriouthay. Doing so effectively can only be done with quality information. Talk to your doctor or another healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns. By signing up to the Mashable newsletter you agree to receive electronic communications It served as a quiet tale of tampon use. Once inside your vagina, they absorb blood and when you are ready to take it out, you can pull on the dangling string. Women are also pretty loyal to managing their periods how they always have. 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. Deciding which one to use doesnt have to be hard. The data (probably) doesn't lie. Again, theres nothing to hide here, but you also dont want to feel self-conscious all day. Since theyre worn on the underwear, pads are known to shift around, and you can bleed on your clothes and undies, said Siriouthay. It is 2018: time for menstrual pad users to reclaim their rightful role at the apex of the feminine hygiene product hierarchy and stand up for what they believe in. Change the pad about every 34 hours. Pads can't be worn while you're swimming or taking a bath, while tampons are an option. Additionally, it is much easier to use a pad versus a tampon, especially when it comes to disposal of the product. Your choice of sanitary products actually has an effect on your menstrual cramps. Specially designed for heavy flow days, these pads feature special FlexFoam technology for a thin and flexible pad you can barely feel. Change to a new tampon at least every 4 to 6 hours. How Often Should You Condition Your Hair? 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. Most menstrual pads are made of absorbent material like cotton and super absorbent polymer. One version popularised by the fount of all quality urban legends: the world wide web claims theyre chock-full of asbestos, thus making you bleed more so you need to buy more tampons. Committee Member - MNF Research Advisory Committee, PhD Scholarship - Uncle Isaac Brown Indigenous Scholarship. To take the tampon out, pull gently on the string attached to the end of it. You have to wash them, which can be an issue if you need to change them on the go. With maxi pads, you can never feel 100% confident that your pad won't show or that it won't leak. Where blood becomes ink, becomes lipstick, becomes art. Others include menstrual cups, cloth pads, menstrual disks, free bleeding, and period panties like Thinx. Maxi pads, like tampons, are made of absorbent materials that soak up menstrual blood. Many girls worry the tampon might get lost inside them. Senior Lecturer, The University of Melbourne. Incidents of TTS have dropped since then and are currently estimated to affect 0.8 to 3.4 per 100,000 people in the United States. Tampons can be more convenient for menstruators on the go. find tampons hard to insert or uncomfortable to wear, wear tampons but want some back-up protection against leaks. DOI: Period products: Information about tampons, pads, and more. Part of the reason it took so long for these alternatives to finally catch on, said Siriouthay, is the cultural stigma around menstruation. A picture of a 15-year-old boy from the US clutching sanitary pads and saying he wants to help girls with periods has gone viral. It can take some time for you to experiment with what products are right for you. Asking for tampons, complaining about tampons, saying they were better than pads because pads are like diapers. ", Livestrong: "How to Swim During Your Period With Pads. If the tampon is not inserted far enough, it will not be able to grab onto the blood that is flowing. If you do prefer pads or tampons, however, Siriouthay said there are a few things you can do to make your period more sustainable. Alternatively, you can stand to insert a tampon, placing one foot on a higher surface such as a toilet seat. Should I use scented pads? I had my periods when I was 13! Ranging from personal preference to medical concerns. Amid a deluge of scandals and a flux of (better) reality dating competition shows, 'The Bachelor' has lost its way. VanLeeuwen C, et al. Wash your hands before and after using a tampon. Ultimately, talk to your GP to find the best and safest product for you. Let's start by explaining what each one is. You may see red, brown, and even black blood during your period. Additionally, it is much easier to use a pad versus a tampon, especially when it comes to disposal of the product. To use a pad, peel the adhesive strip off and press it on to your underwear. Period panties, menstrual underwear whatever you call them, theyre a thing. They call menstrual pads wasteful even though used tampon applicators are more popular than grains of sand on a Brooklyn beach. Menstrual cups can be worn for 4-12 hours, depending on flow and can generally hold more than a normal tampon. In high school people didnt talk about periods much, but when they did it was always about tampons. That's just my thoughts but I have no idea why as I don't do it myself. (Unless it's the first day of their period, in which case, please take a chair. No, it is not weird to use pads instead of tampons. So my bulky menstrual pad and I sat in the heat on the side of that crystal blue water as my friends urged me to jump in. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. A tampon is a small, cylindrical bundle made of cotton, rayon or a blend of cotton and rayon. Figures are rubbery but in the United States it is estimated 42% of women use tampons (and likely not exclusively), compared to 62% using pads. Many people with vaginas have been brought up to experience shame around our menstruation. We include products we think are useful for our readers. We may hear stigmatizing beliefs about our bodies, such as the notion that tampon use can take our virginity. Either way, says Siriouthay, Periods shouldnt be taboo.. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); By clicking 'Sign Up' you agree to receive marketing emails from PUBLIC GOODS. 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. Its impossible for you to lose your tampon inside your body. Tampons, on the other hand, are less bulky and tend to stay in place, meaning you dont have to worry as much about potential leaks. In some places online one wonders whether anything else is ever discussed. Wearing period panties might be a good way to transition to free bleeding if you want to try it out but are hesitant. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), however, advises against reusable tampons, as they are more likely to cause fungal, yeast, or bacterial infections. Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome are a high fever, vomiting or diarrhea, severe muscle aches, weakness, dizziness, or a rash that looks like a sunburn. They contribute to a serious waste problem, building up in landfills and sometimes even washing up on beaches. They can shift out of place and wrinkle up in the center when youre moving. The answer could be a mix of the two. You dont need to be a tampon user to see the obvious pros of tampons. Sometimes, pads are called sanitary pads or sanitary napkins. Plus, they dont make the whooshy diaper sound that disposable pads often make. 1 in 10 college students struggle to afford panty liners, pads, tampons, and other menstrual hygiene supplies, according to a recent study in BMC Women's Health journal. Changing pads many times in a day is easier than tampons. These absorbent panties can hold as much as a couple of pads or tampons worth of blood, depending which ones you buy. Jose Garcia, from Miami, Florida, posted his message on Instagram . Its users choice, said Siriouthay. Ultimately, its up to each individual to decide what works best for them and if tampons are a comfortable and suitable choice for their needs.