To use a pad, peel the adhesive strip off and press it on to your underwear. Another potential explanation is that the tampon may be blocking the flow of blood from your uterus, disrupting the menstrual cycle. When you change your pads regularly, you stop harmful germs called bacteria from growing in them. Double! A feeling of extreme weakness or dizziness, Always follow the directions on the label even if youve used tampons before.. They come in different absorbencies to accommodate light to heavy periods. Fast facts: Nine things you didn't know about menstruation. 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. 11 Lack of Confidence. Tampons are cylindrical inserts that go inside your vagina, whereas pads are absorbent linings designed to stick to your underwear. Heres what you need to know about how to insert them, clean them, and more. By: Author Olin Wade (Remodel or Move Stuff). If the tampon isnt taken out and changed regularly enough, then the tampon can get saturated, leaving it unable to absorb anymore. How to Use a Tampon (with Pictures) - wikiHow In high school people didnt talk about periods much, but when they did it was always about tampons. If your periods are heavy, the cup may runneth over long before the 12 hours. Pads and Tampons (for Kids) - Nemours KidsHealth Do you ever forget about a tampon? oklahoma state verbal commits . They arent very discreet thanks to the very obvious sound of pulling them off your underwear. Where to Buy Tampons Online Right Now, Amid the Shortage - SELF Committee Member - MNF Research Advisory Committee, PhD Scholarship - Uncle Isaac Brown Indigenous Scholarship. 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. We take your words seriously. 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. 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. Id also often hear Ive never used tampons confessions. Why Tampons Have Yet to Catch On in China - #SixthTone Mashable is a registered trademark of Ziff Davis and may not be used by third parties without express written permission. One study found that women had to change the cup, on average, 2.8 times less frequently than when using tampons or pads, and that it leaked 0.5 times less often. 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. That depends. Why we prefer sanitary pads to tampons - Nigerian women 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? Those wretched, bulky layers of plastic that ended up in my underwear every month made the whole process very uncomfortable. With proper care and cleaning, a menstrual cup can last up to 10 years, making them a great economical choice. Additionally, since they are absorbent, they minimize the risk of leaking or staining clothing or other fabrics. There is archaeological evidence of women using tampon-like instruments to help stem menstrual flow dating back to Ancient Egypt, where women used material from the papyrus plant to stop period blood. Some tampons dont have applicators, and menstruators simply push these into their vaginas using their fingers. Pads are often the go-to choice for first-time period users, as they are more visible, larger, and easier to use than tampons. 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. Free bleeding can be cause for concern, especially if you are going out into the public. Getting toxic shock syndrome through tampon usage is rare, however. If you try to take out the tampon and have trouble finding the string at first, don't worry. They're also less visible under clothing. It really depends on the person and what they prioritize in their menstrual care, said Siriouthay, who tests menstrual products. Wash your hands before and after using a tampon. Additionally, it could be that the act of putting a tampon in is calming to some people and may temporarily reduce the activity of the hormones controlling your menstrual cycle, resulting in a lightening or stopping of your period. Many people tend to tense up, resulting in difficulty with insertion. University of Melbourne provides funding as a founding partner of The Conversation AU. Does pulling out a tampon make you feel like you're dragging out a placenta? They're soft, they're flexible, and they're even more adept than paper towels at cleaning up dog piss on the floor. 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. Unlike tampons, pad users wear them outside of their vaginas, usually using adhesive to stick them to underwear. It can take some time for you to experiment with what products are right for you. Push the tampon into your vagina using the applicator or your finger, depending on what kind of tampon you have. When you try one for the first time, wash your hands well, follow the directions carefully, and be sure to relax. But between these options, and the classic tampons and pads, menstruators today have so much to choose from. Together, we can build a world where people aren't defined by what hygiene product they have between their legs. Nemours Children's Health and KidsHealth are registered trademarks of The Nemours Foundation. Tampons are associated with an increased risk of a rare condition called toxic shock syndrome. They are confident that their hygiene product is the superior one. And we dont have to be embarrassed or ashamed of not wanting to do an activity because of our menstruation or menstrual cramps, either. 13 Reasons Why You Should Never Wear Maxi Pads Again You cant feel them when theyre in properly. "Why do you want to wear an adult diaper?" It is absolutely normal to not want to use tampons! Incontinence pads are an economic, comfortable, discreet solution for many customers, but if you need more absorbency or prefer the security that full protection provides, a brief might be the best option.Like the Nexwear pads, our underwear provides no-fail protection, comfortable and . Over time, though, I came to grow ashamed of my sanitary napkins as tampon users ascended and "pad-shaming" became more powerful. Tampons vs. Pads: Is One Better Than the Other? - Healthline All rights reserved. Don't flush it in the toilet even tampons that say they're flushable can still cause problems in some toilets. A tampon's absorbent material is pressed tight into a small cylinder shape. 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. However, some users can experience skin irritation from menstrual pad use, especially in hot, moist weather conditions. 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. . However, depending on their absorbency level, some . These absorbent panties can hold as much as a couple of pads or tampons worth of blood, depending which ones you buy. A time when Girlfriend and Dolly were only seemed to publish stories about toxic shock syndrome. Its impossible for you to lose your tampon inside your body. These little cotton cylindrical pads that fit inside your vagina are currently the most popular menstrual product. If you have any symptoms of TSS, you should get immediate medical help. Toxic shock syndrome is a rare infection that can happen to girls who use tampons. Some may be slightly shorter in order to be better sized for travel or on-the-go use. If you're willing to pay a little extra for convenience, extendable tampons will set you back between $0.19 and $0.23 per tampon. Yet for all the clamor, pad users are actually in the silent statistical majority. Changing pads many times in a day is easier than tampons. Spread your knees farther apart than you usually might, so that you have maximum access and visibility while you figure this out, or you can squat and sit like a frog on the toilet seat. Here are some things to consider when choosing between the two most common products: tampons vs pads. Its for this reason that other internal, having-to-touch-the-blood methods like cups and sponges havent yet gone mainstream. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Some tips to remember for safe use tampons include: There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to menstrual care products. (2017). If you prefer pads to tampons or aren't yet ready to try a menstrual cup, washable pads are another alternative. But nearly a century into commercial tampon availability in the West, where does our pad preference come from? That, by eschewing the more discreet option, renders them less feminist, less empowered, less hip. Young Men Are Learning How Menstrual Pads Work on TikTok - Glamour They're also great if your new to the world of menstruation or have a hard time wearing tampons. I was at high school throughout much of the 1990s. Pros. In contrast, Pads catch the blood outside the vagina, so theres no added discomfort from the pad itself.. If mum handed you a pad that very first time, you likely kept using them. DOI: Period products: Information about tampons, pads, and more. They each have pros and cons that could make them a great option for certain lifestyles and an inconvenience for some. Tampons are not intended to be used at any other time or . Additionally, pads do not require any application nor do they pose any risk of irritation or injury associated with insertion. An applicator with a rounded top can be especially helpful for beginners. How often should I change my tampon? 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. Menstrual cups are flexible cups made of silicone or rubber that you wear inside your vagina to catch menstrual blood. They are comfortable and even recommended for women who engage in exercises like running, dancing, swimming, jogging, etc. 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. 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. Pads are a great option for women who dont like the idea of inserting anything inside their body. She let women in China know that, yes, there are ways to swim while you have your period. Thanks for signing up. Some users find menstrual pads more comfortable because they prefer not to insert a product into their vaginas. ", Mayo Clinic: "Bacterial vaginosis," "Toxic shock syndrome," "Yeast infection (vaginal). Of all the feminist alleyways one might stumble down online, a noteworthy one is the menstrual community. The Best Period Underwear Options for Any Situation. Why men should buy tampons - BBC News They can be worn for up to 12 hours at a time. Girl Talk: How to Handle Your Period in the Backcountry Try out different options to find what works best. Overall . (Tampons admittedly have a minor advantage there.). If you have a pet at home, make sure you throw tampons away in a trash can that your pet can't get into. If you have a pet at home, make sure you throw pads away in a trash can that your pet can't get into. I am the heavy flow queen, she said. Solving Problems With Login To iTunes Account As Well As Your iTunes Sign In. Tampons are also a better choice for swimming. The biggest risk is viruses, such as hepatitis, which can be transmitted through dried blood for several days. Part of the reason it took so long for these alternatives to finally catch on, said Siriouthay, is the cultural stigma around menstruation. Seventeen picks products that we think you'll love the most. Your email address will not be published. No, it is not weird to use pads instead of tampons. Nothing could be more personal, more intimate, than how women manage their periods. Lauren Rosewarne does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 2023 PUBLIC GOODS - All Rights Reserved. The tampon is put inside the vagina and absorbs the blood before it comes out. If the tampon is not inserted far enough, it will not be able to grab onto the blood that is flowing. Toxic shock syndrome is treated as a medical emergency. Times have changed. Using a tampon is not the same thing as having penetrative sex, and both having sex and using tampons are totally personal decisions. Many period products contain plastics and harmful chemicals. You have to insert it into your vagina with your fingers or an applicator that holds the tampon inside it. (2016). why do some women "pad shame/bully" women for using pads? But a tampon looks like a small tube. Tampons (say: TAM-ponz) also absorb menstrual blood, but they work from inside the vagina. Because you can see it, it's also easy to remember when you have to change it. Youve got options, and at the end of the day its your period, your prerogative. You can't see it as you would with a pad, so be sure to remember when it's time to change to prevent spotting and leaks on your underwear. Why men should buy tampons - BBC News Cramps Its not right that tampons are culturally the 'best' and often 'only' period option. But they still can't get lost in your body. But I could never use tampons . Bacterial vaginosis is a kind of vaginal inflammation that happens when bacteria found naturally in your vagina overgrow. Pads are worn in your underwear, completely outside your body. 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.. Other girls like pads because they're easy to use, and it's easier to remember when to change them because you can see the blood on them. With maxi pads, you can never feel 100% confident that your pad won't show or that it won't leak. Its also possible that you could be using the same tampon for too long. I prefer pads over tampons for a variety of reasons. Pros. 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. 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. Can a tampon get lost inside my body? These are not the same sponges you wash your dishes or tub with! Tampons Vs. Pads: Pros, Cons, and Which Is Better for You - Insider Washable Pads. If youre a woman who enjoys this activity, tampons may be a better option. Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, Everything You Need to Know About Using Menstrual Cups. Pads come in a number of different sizes, from light panty liners to long and thick overnight pads, and in a number of different materials, including synthetics, cotton, and banana leaf or bamboo. 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. Most menstrual pads are made of absorbent material like cotton and super absorbent polymer. Pads can't be worn while you're swimming or taking a bath, while tampons are an option. Ive not been able to locate any data on whether the 90s was a particularly bumper decade for the syndrome, but women my age are quick to whisper about the toxic shock. From reducing waste to recycling and upcycling, our e-book shows simple ways to make choices you can feel good about. Theyre also great if your new to the world of menstruation or have a hard time wearing tampons. How do you know which one is right for you? After you remove a pad, wrap it in toilet paper and put it in the trash can (or if you're in school or another public restroom, use the special disposal box found in most stalls). 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.. 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). All Rights Reserved. Wash your hands and get into a comfortable position. For me, it was in fifth grade at my neighbors swimming pool. 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. It . Doing so effectively can only be done with quality information. 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's possible to forget you have a tampon in and insert another one. Required fields are marked *. You may see red, brown, and even black blood during your period. The best way to reduce the environmental impact is to choose reusable menstrual options, like period panties or menstrual cups. (Unless it's the first day of their period, in which case, please take a chair. Theyre reusable and some last up to 6 months with proper care and cleaning. Additionally, the hymen can sometimes be a barrier when first attempting to put in a tampon due to it being a thin membrane-like tissue located at the opening of the vagina. They are designed to stick on to your underwear and come in different sizes for heavy and light periods. Others include menstrual cups, cloth pads, menstrual disks, free bleeding, and period panties like Thinx. Mean Girls: you havent lost your virginity if you use a tampon. Some of us use exclusively one kind of product; many of us use a mix. We all want to make sure we have a safe and happy period. On the other hand, with pads you don't have to worry about the risk of getting toxic shock syndrome when you use it overnight. It took Siriouthay some time to figure out a menstrual care system that worked for her. Pads are rectangles of absorbent material that you stick to the inside of your underwear. Your vagina is self-cleaning and doesn't need any form of soap, chemical, or perfume. They call menstrual pads wasteful even though used tampon applicators are more popular than grains of sand on a Brooklyn beach. Ultimately, talk to your GP to find the best and safest product for you. When you start having your period, you can use a pad or tampon to soak up the menstrual blood. A tampon is made of absorbent material similar to a pad. But when the sticky backing pulls at your pubes, its back to tampons again. .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? If you have any concerns or questions about your period, talk to your mom, dad, or doctor. The answer to this question depends on the individual. How Often Should You Condition Your Hair? This can cause gray, white, or green discharge, a fishy-smelling odor, itching, and burning during urination. If youre going to give free bleeding a try, stained clothing and sheets are pretty much a given. Use the lowest absorbency tampon possible. 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. Firstly, pads are generally more comfortable to wear than tampons due to their design, allowing for more airflow and wicking away any moisture. An extension of this is discomfort physically or just psychologically at having something inside you for stretches of time each month. Some tampons have applicators, which are plastic or cardboard tubes that help put the tampon in place. Jose Garcia, from Miami, Florida, posted his message on Instagram . You can find super-absorbent pads that are very thin so you dont have an uncomfortable feeling between your legs all the time., Even though pads can also cause toxic shock syndrome, the risk is much less compared to tampons. This means that your blood and other menstrual fluids will flow freely, just as they would without any protection. We may hear stigmatizing beliefs about our bodies, such as the notion that tampon use can take our virginity. 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. When selecting a tampon, its important to choose one that is suitable for your individual needs. Additionally, it is much easier to use a pad versus a tampon, especially when it comes to disposal of the product. You should change your tampon every 4 to 6 hours. Inserting a tampon in your vagina is more comfortable if you're relaxed. Tampons should typically be used for no longer than 8 hours, and sometimes an hour or two less than that depending on your flow. Menstrual cups can be worn for 4-12 hours, depending on flow and can generally hold more than a normal tampon. 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They also come in deodorant varieties, but these can irritate the vagina. 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. To take the tampon out, pull gently on the string attached to the end of it. That's just my thoughts but I have no idea why as I don't do it myself. 1. Choosing between tampons and pads comes down to what your preferences are. So it's very important that you change your tampon at least every 4-6 hours, even if your period is light. Free bleeding is simply the practice of not using any kind of period protection, such as tampons or pads, to absorb menstrual blood. The average menstrual cycle is between 21 and 35 days, and the amount of time you bleed each month can vary as well, usually lasting for about 37 days. 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. If your period is heavy, you can change your pad more often. 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. 14 Men Share What It's Like to Buy Sanitary Pads and Why - VagaBomb For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. 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). 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. Deciding which one to use doesnt have to be hard. Warner Bros. Reusable products, on the other hand, challenge the out of sight, out of mind mentality of menstruation. Are you comfortable inserting something inside yourself, or would you rather let the blood collect into a pad? Tampons also come in different sizes meant for both heavy and light blood flows. Where they differ are . Carolyn Twersky is an associate editor for Seventeen covering celebrities, entertainment, politics, trends, and health. Much like well-known drugstore brands, direct-to-consumer tampon brands offer light- and ultra-absorbency options in addition to regular tampons. You dont need to be a tampon user to see the obvious pros of tampons. An extension of this are vaguer tampons-make-you-sick fears. It also means less landfill waste and fewer trees being cut down to make paper-based options and packaging. Pads come in different sizes for heavier and . Hemp Oil For Dogs: Benefits, Safety Tips, Dosage and More, My Top 11 Favorite Movies About Wellness and Sustainability. Even though I didn't have my period at the time, I wanted to impress the other girls and show that I, too, was one of the cool ones, capable of getting knocked up by one of the popular loud boys. Disposable Tampons and Pads. "Differentiation between menstrual products is a personal choice as long as they are used as directed, either are efficacious," says Gaither.