Many girls start out using pads, but might want to use tampons when they do sports or go swimming. Tampons are associated with an increased risk of a rare condition called toxic shock syndrome. Its a rare but life-threatening complication of certain types of bacterial infections. If youre going to try menstrual sponges, be sure you buy natural sea sponge, as some retailers sell synthetic sponges that are dyed and not necessarily safe. A tampon absorbs menstrual blood before it has a chance to come out of your body. She cautioned, however, to remember never to use a tampon with a higher absorbency than you need, and to make sure to change your tampon every four to eight hours to reduce your risk of TSS. Double! Changing pads many times in a day is easier than tampons. Overwhelmed by the ever-growing world of period underwear? Many girls switch back and forth: Sometimes they use tampons and sometimes they use pads, depending on the situation, where they're going to be, and their menstrual flow. ", Sure, #NotAllTamponUsers discriminate. They arent very discreet thanks to the very obvious sound of pulling them off your underwear. Fast facts: Nine things you didn't know about menstruation. It is absolutely normal to not want to use tampons! Nothing could be more personal, more intimate, than how women manage their periods. Tampons and pads aren't the only two options by any meanssome girls prefer to use .css-lec2h6{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-thickness:0.0625rem;text-decoration-color:inherit;text-underline-offset:0.25rem;color:inherit;-webkit-transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;background-image:linear-gradient( to bottom, rgba(241, 220, 225, 1), rgba(241, 220, 225, 1));-webkit-background-position:0 100%;background-position:0 100%;background-repeat:repeat-x;-webkit-background-size:0 0;background-size:0 0;padding-top:0.05rem;padding-bottom:0.05rem;}.css-lec2h6:hover{color:#000000;text-decoration-color:border-link-body-hover;-webkit-background-size:.625rem 3.125rem;background-size:.625rem 3.125rem;}menstrual cups or even period pantiesbut they're certainly the two most common ways to handle your period. Pads are also called sanitary pads or sanitary napkins. A new study found that menstrual cups were just as good, if not better, as disposable tampons and pads at preventing leaks. Sometimes, pads are called sanitary pads or sanitary napkins. Pros. May be better for heavy periods: Women and girls who have heavy periods have to change their menstrual hygiene product more often than others. Another potential explanation is that the tampon may be blocking the flow of blood from your uterus, disrupting the menstrual cycle. Tampons are much less bulky and less likely to move, so you can feel confident while you're out and about! Consider your comfort, budget, convenience, and any other variables that matter to you when choosing your products. 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. This means that your blood and other menstrual fluids will flow freely, just as they would without any protection. Pads are worn in your underwear, completely outside your body. 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). The biggest risk is viruses, such as hepatitis, which can be transmitted through dried blood for several days. Again, theres nothing to hide here, but you also dont want to feel self-conscious all day. Next up: her own show. When selecting a tampon, its important to choose one that is suitable for your individual needs. Id speculate most Western countries have similar figures. Most menstrual pads are made of absorbent material like cotton and super absorbent polymer. The data (probably) doesn't lie. If you are uncomfortable with using them, there are plenty of other menstrual products that can be used instead, such as menstrual cups or pads. University of Melbourne provides funding as a founding partner of The Conversation AU. For far too long, people who use menstrual pads have been doubly stigmatized: first for their periods, and second, for their feminine hygiene product of choice. You can try doing a skin prick test to figure out if youre allergic to some material in the tampon, and then make sure you go with a different option that is more suitable for your body. ", OB-GYN University of Colorado: "How To Insert A Tampon. By signing up to the Mashable newsletter you agree to receive electronic communications And for women with a particularly heavy flow, tampons are oftentimes perceived as less reliable. Does pulling out a tampon make you feel like you're dragging out a placenta? Additionally, pads do not require any application nor do they pose any risk of irritation or injury associated with insertion. All of these features make pads the preferred choice for many people. ), hurting the environment (definitely true), and being old virgins (totally accurate, but that had nothing to do with the tampons). And some girls with heavy periods use tampons together with pads or pantiliners for added protection against leakage. Its for this reason that other internal, having-to-touch-the-blood methods like cups and sponges havent yet gone mainstream. The answer could be a mix of the two. 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. Discovery to sue Paramount over 'South Park' streaming rights, Wordle today: Here's the answer, hints for March 3, Daters have a 'reality gap' about gender equality, Bumble says, The best Xbox controller out there is on sale get one while it lasts, Jenna Ortega channels Wednesday for 'Hot Ones', deadpans her way through spicy wings, Wordle today: Here's the answer, hints for March 4. Today, tampons typically consist of a small cotton stick with a string attached to one end. Black, Brown, Bright Red, and More: What Does Each Period Blood Color Mean? (2018). Wash your hands before and after using a tampon. For feminists who spend any time online, the idea of period talk being forbidden is hilarious. While tampons and pads are the most popular menstrual products, they are far from the only ones. I prefer pads over tampons for a variety of reasons. Pads are much more environmentally friendly to dispose of since they are made of biodegradable materials. They rework our relationship to periods by creating a sort of ritual of cleaning the products, keeping them to reuse, and, in a lot of cases, putting them on display, said Siriouthay. Dont ever leave a tampon in for longer especially all day or all night. They must be thoroughly cleaned and dried before storing after your cycle. If you do prefer pads or tampons, however, Siriouthay said there are a few things you can do to make your period more sustainable. 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. Period panties, menstrual underwear whatever you call them, theyre a thing. If you have really heavy periods, you may need to change it more than every 3 to 4 hours. But they still can't get lost in your body. They are also especially great for overnight use. 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); By clicking 'Sign Up' you agree to receive marketing emails from PUBLIC GOODS. In truth, virginity is a cultural category that some people use to define whether weve had sex. I was too embarrassed to say that I had my period and I hadnt yet learned to use tampons. Additionally, using menstrual cups, period underwear, and sponges to collect menstrual fluid is different from free bleeding, as these items are still effectively containing your period. You may have trouble with fitting the cup if you have, Youll need to give it a thorough wash after each cycle, Though cheaper in the long term, the initial cost is roughly $25 to $40, depending on the brand, Some cups contain latex, so be sure to read the label if you have a, TTS from menstrual cups is possible when not used as directed, want to have sex during your period without the bleeding, are looking to reduce the environmental footprint of your cycle. Either way, says Siriouthay, Periods shouldnt be taboo.. . Before you ask: Yes, it's worth the price. Its not right that tampons are culturally the 'best' and often 'only' period option. An applicator is a plastic or cardboard tube that guides the tampon into the vagina. If it continues to happen and youre concerned, its best to visit your doctor to rule out any more serious underlying issues. 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. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. If youre going to give free bleeding a try, stained clothing and sheets are pretty much a given. All rights reserved. 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. Some have extra material on the sides (called "wings") that fold over the edges of your underwear to better hold the pad in place and prevent leaks. (2017). The first modern tampons, similar to those we use today, were invented in 1929 by a physician named Dr. Earle Haas. Padable told me. Then try a pad. Their size makes them small enough to fit in a tiny pocket or in the palm of your hand, so theyre convenient and discreet (not that menstruation is anything to be ashamed of). Nonfoux L, et al. They sometimes minimize the dangers of toxic shock syndrome and refuse to acknowledge that the pantyliner they have in their underwear to catch "excess flow" is actually just a glorified menstrual pad. No, but seriously: These guys don . Theyre reusable and some last up to 6 months with proper care and cleaning. Dont be afraid to mix it up to accommodate the stages of your cycle. Toxic shock syndrome is a life-threatening condition that happens from certain bacterial infections. Public Goods asked Maddy Siriouthay, co-founder and Chief Content Officer at Ovee, a brand promoting health for people with vaginas, about the differences between tampons vs pads, and the pros and cons of each. This way, the tampon can absorb your flow more effectively. And my experience was shared by others. 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. The labelling on your pad's packaging will usually tell you details of the size and whether its right for light or heavy period blood flow.. Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, Everything You Need to Know About Using Menstrual Cups. If you use tampons and get any of these symptoms, take out the tampon and tell an adult immediately. Pads are rectangles of absorbent material that you stick to the inside of your underwear. Here are pros and cons of menstrual cups. Again, regular changing usually can manage any odor concerns. 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. Like pads, tampons come in different sizes for heavier and lighter periods. Its important to remember to do this because you can sometimes forget you are using one. Tampons and pads aren't the only two options by any meanssome girls prefer to use menstrual cups or even period pantiesbut they're certainly the two most common ways to handle your period. It really depends on the person and what they prioritize in their menstrual care, said Siriouthay, who tests menstrual products. Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Theyre more breathable than regular pads. Your Privacy Choices: Opt Out of Sale/Targeted Ads. You can wear them as extra leak protection with pads and tampons at night or on heavy days. Lastly, pads are non-absorbent, meaning that your natural fluids will not be trapped nor will any other unpleasant odors be retained. In order to be effective, however, it is important to select the right size and absorbency for your flow and to change the tampon regularly (at least every four to eight hours). What was this cramp? All Rights Reserved. Now, that system includes using a tampon on lighter days and doubling up with a heavy absorbency tampon and a pad on heavier days. We take your words seriously. Many women use menstrual cups as an eco-friendly alternative to tampons. If you have any concerns or questions about your period, talk to your mom, dad, or doctor. Some girls find that a slender size, applicator-style tampon is easier to use when they first start their periods. 1. Pros. find tampons hard to insert or uncomfortable to wear, wear tampons but want some back-up protection against leaks. Some women also prefer tampons because they're easier to carry and you . Pads are much more environmentally . Ahhh, the age-old dilemma of tampons vs. pads. Additionally, some people may be worried about the potential for Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), although this is very rare and modern tampons must meet strict safety regulations to prevent it. Where blood becomes ink, becomes lipstick, becomes art. Yuanhuis story stood out for me not because of the cramps, but for the swimming-while-bleeding possibility. You cant wear them in thongs or G-strings, if thats your thing. Could I have it, too? So, "women buy disposable products when they can, but are often forced to rely on donations and/or to create make-shift pads and tampons for themselves, mostly out of toilet paper, tissue or paper towels, but also out of their kids' diapers, old socks, ripped T-shirts or rags." And for many poor moms, kids' needs come first. 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. It's fully inside your body with the exception . Inserting them can be uncomfortable, especially when trying a new one. Tampon usage also retains an ick factor. Some people find that using tampons can actually reduce cramps because using a tampon applies gentle pressure on the lower abdomen and can take the focus off the cramp. Pad and tampons might seem like two different species, but both are equally bad when it comes to their affect on mother nature. "Why do you want to wear an adult diaper?" Id also often hear Ive never used tampons confessions. Here are some tips and tricks to help you find the answer to "Wordle" #623. They can shift out of place and wrinkle up in the center when youre moving. Senior Lecturer, The University of Melbourne. Dramatically overstated fears of TSS still see some women disinclined to use tampons. Mean Girls: you havent lost your virginity if you use a tampon. The risk of toxic shock syndrome is higher with tampons. Last medically reviewed on September 11, 2019. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. You can reduce your risk of toxic shock syndrome by using the least absorbent tampon required to manage your flow and changing your tampon regularly. advise menstruators to choose unscented tampons. 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. Seventeen picks products that we think you'll love the most. Overall . I usually wear pads, just rather have the . 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. 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. greenhithe village. If you do this, you increase your chances of getting a serious medical condition called toxic shock syndrome (TSS). tampon loyalists will ask. Tampons expand as they absorb fluid, pushing against the vaginal canal, and this can actually contribute to cramp pain, said Siriouthay. This makes them great for heavier days and overnight use, as well as saving time and money on the need for frequent change. An applicator with a rounded top can be especially helpful for beginners. It . 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. (Take it from someone whos endured the horror of watching her pad float on by while swimming with friends.). Carolyn Twersky is an associate editor for Seventeen covering celebrities, entertainment, politics, trends, and health. Mashable is a registered trademark of Ziff Davis and may not be used by third parties without express written permission. How do you know which one is right for you? We avoid using tertiary references. Note: All information on KidsHealth is for educational purposes only. Those wretched, bulky layers of plastic that ended up in my underwear every month made the whole process very uncomfortable. There are several different factors that go into every menstruators product choice. They can be inserted into your vagina with your hands or with an applicator. These are not the same sponges you wash your dishes or tub with! Also, no matter how thin your pad is, it may be visible under tight or minimal clothing., Pros. Steps for removing tampons: The hymen can separate during tampon insertion and cause discomfort. While its a medical malady easily avoided by not treating a tampon as a permanent resident, for example the Death From Tampon spectre still haunts. Chris, 35. You can also reduce waste by choosing tampons without applicators. 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. Unlike tampons, pad users wear them outside of their vaginas, usually using adhesive to stick them to underwear. If you need help, tell a parent. You can also choose pads based on how light or heavy your blood flow is.. Make sure to have one bag for clean tampons and another well-marked waste bag for used ones. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we: We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness. 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. However, depending on their absorbency level, some . Yes, tampons can stop period flow. Much like well-known drugstore brands, direct-to-consumer tampon brands offer light- and ultra-absorbency options in addition to regular tampons. They can be worn for up to 12 hours at a time. It served as a quiet tale of tampon use. 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