These bacteria can enter the body through the vagina and cause illnesses.. Tampons can be more convenient for menstruators on the go. Steps for removing tampons: Theyre less likely to cause irritation than synthetic products. Pads are usually made up of an absorbent material and they're designed to stick right on to your underwear. Cup users also had similar or even lower levels of menstrual blood leakage than those who used tampons and pads . Cumulative exposure and feminine care products. Together, we can build a world where people aren't defined by what hygiene product they have between their legs. Tampon users and pad users can get along. 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. They cost less than some other reusable period products. Tampon usage also retains an ick factor. 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. Menstrual cups are a great alternative to tampons. Pads are much more environmentally friendly to dispose of since they are made of biodegradable materials. Pads are rectangles of absorbent material that you stick to the inside of your underwear. What was this cramp? Tampons and pads both offer effective protection against menstrual flow, and which you choose depends largely on your own personal preference and lifestyle. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. The time has come to reclaim the menstrual pad. 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. Hemp Oil For Dogs: Benefits, Safety Tips, Dosage and More, My Top 11 Favorite Movies About Wellness and Sustainability. 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. These absorbent panties can hold as much as a couple of pads or tampons worth of blood, depending which ones you buy. The opening of the cervix (at the top of the vagina) is just too tiny for a tampon to get through. They call menstrual pads wasteful even though used tampon applicators are more popular than grains of sand on a Brooklyn beach. I'd speculate most Western countries have similar . Pads offer a better option for those with heavier flow days, which may require changing more frequently than tampons. So it's very important that you change your tampon at least every 4-6 hours, even if your period is light. Outside of Pete Evans-style medical information, a range of cultural and social reasons continue to dissuade tampon use. I am the heavy flow queen, she said. What You Need to Know About Vaginal Discharge, All of Your Questions About Hymens, Answered, The Average Age Teens Are Losing Their Virginity, Why Your Vagina is Dry and What to Do About It, Experts Weigh In on How to Use a Vibrator. Period panties, menstrual underwear whatever you call them, theyre a thing. Some tips to remember for safe use tampons include: There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to menstrual care products. Ultimately, it is up to the female swimmer to decide which option works best for her individual needs. On this occasion, however, a happy consequence of Yuanhuis comments is that she has shed light on options. 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!) 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. 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. Pads, meanwhile, are not associated with TSS. Tampons also are easy to store in a purse or pocket. Tampons and pads are two of the most common menstrual products, and there is an unending debate about which is better for your time of the month. If you have any concerns or questions about your period, talk to your mom, dad, or doctor. Changing pads many times in a day is easier than tampons. Your choice of sanitary products actually has an effect on your menstrual cramps. Thats a lot of pros in the cups favor, but its not all rainbows and unicorns. They believe those who choose pads are weak, anachronistic, regressive. Your Privacy Choices: Opt Out of Sale/Targeted Ads. Natural pads may be more comfortable and provide healthier options than those containing chemicals. Tampons are cylindrical vagina inserts made out of cotton, rayon, or a mix of both materials. 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. They also come in deodorant varieties, but these can irritate the vagina. The hymen can separate during tampon insertion and cause discomfort. We all want to make sure we have a safe and happy period. They come in a variety of sizes and colors and can be reused for three to five years. Generally, allergy to materials found within tampons is rare but it is still possible for it to occur. There could be a few reasons why your tampon is not absorbing blood. I'd always offer the sexy super maxi pads I stole from my mom's bathroom to the popular girls in the locker room after they complained about this beautiful, mysterious ailment they called "cramps.". Today, tampons typically consist of a small cotton stick with a string attached to one end. Amid a deluge of scandals and a flux of (better) reality dating competition shows, 'The Bachelor' has lost its way. from Mashable that may sometimes include advertisements or sponsored content. 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. And my experience was shared by others. Tampons, in their minds, are sleek, sophisticated feminine hygiene products made for modern women who have lots of sex. For feminists who spend any time online, the idea of period talk being forbidden is hilarious. An applicator is a plastic or cardboard tube that guides the tampon into the vagina. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. I was too embarrassed to say that I had my period and I hadnt yet learned to use tampons. Mean Girls: you havent lost your virginity if you use a tampon. And I used to hate 'that time of the month'. Many period products contain plastics and harmful chemicals. Pads and tampons are two of the most common and effective ways to manage period blood. 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. Of all the feminist alleyways one might stumble down online, a noteworthy one is the menstrual community. Wash your hands and get into a comfortable position. Change to a new tampon at least every 4 to 6 hours. 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. (2018). You can also reduce waste by choosing tampons without applicators. ", Cosmopolitan UK: "A doctor answers all your questions about Toxic Shock Syndrome. When you change your pads regularly, you stop harmful germs called bacteria from growing in them. The period game is about more than tampons vs. pads. Tampons are much less bulky and less likely to move, so you can feel confident while you're out and about! (n.d.). Like pads, tampons come in different sizes for heavier and lighter periods. Even if you haven't started your period yet, it's a good idea to be prepared by carrying a few pads or tampons with you, just in case. Pad users, in their minds, are blind to social norms and addicted to the pleasures of the napkin, a disposable mattress for the vagina. Also, no matter how thin your pad is, it may be visible under tight or minimal clothing., Pros. "I am PROUD of my pads!" 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. Sea sponge tampons are small sponges that are inserted into the vagina like a tampon. We never have to repeat those early teenage memories of being too ashamed of our menstruation to spend a day at the pool. Seemingly, some women are convinced theyve committed a kind of anachronistic, feminine hygiene sin for picking the pad. Investing in a waterproof mattress protector is also a good idea. Menstrual cups can be worn for 4-12 hours, depending on flow and can generally hold more than a normal tampon. mess. 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. This makes them great for heavier days and overnight use, as well as saving time and money on the need for frequent change. While diva cups produce minimal amounts of waste, the average woman trashes up to 250 - 300 lbs(Opens in a new tab) of "pads, applications, and tampons" over the course of their lifetime. It really depends on the person and what they prioritize in their menstrual care, said Siriouthay, who tests menstrual products. Yuanhuis story stood out for me not because of the cramps, but for the swimming-while-bleeding possibility. You insert it into your vagina with an applicator, or if it's a non-applicator tampon, you can just use your fingers. 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). When you start having your period, you can use a pad or tampon to soak up the menstrual blood. (2018). 11 Lack of Confidence. 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. Consider your comfort, budget, convenience, and any other variables that matter to you when choosing your products. If you have a pet at home, make sure you throw pads away in a trash can that your pet can't get into. A new study found that menstrual cups were just as good, if not better, as disposable tampons and pads at preventing leaks. There are so many reasons I, and millions like me, choose the pad. Scented pads and tampons can actually mess with your vagina's natural pH and cause problems including bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. You should still remember to change the pads regularly., Cons. That includes non-menstrual cases, too. Toxic shock syndrome is treated as a medical emergency. Given their way, this sisterhood might even deify Chinese Olympic bronze medallist Fu Yuanhui. Yes, tampons can stop period flow. The Best Period Underwear Options for Any Situation. If youre a woman who enjoys this activity, tampons may be a better option. Disposable Tampons and Pads. 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. Part of the reason it took so long for these alternatives to finally catch on, said Siriouthay, is the cultural stigma around menstruation. A small minority reject the binary and use both tampons and maxi-pad, or even diva cups and period underwear, alternating based on the flow of their period or how sexy they're feeling that day. What's the Link Between Tampons and Cramps? 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. 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. Theres a lot of culture-specific stigmatizations around periods, said Siriouthay. 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.. That's just my thoughts but I have no idea why as I don't do it myself. Once inside your vagina, they absorb blood and when you are ready to take it out, you can pull on the dangling string. Some tampons have tampon applicators, thin plastic applicators or cardboard tubes that help users insert the tampons. Its a rare but life-threatening complication of certain types of bacterial infections. Dramatically overstated fears of TSS still see some women disinclined to use tampons. Pros. The answer could be a mix of the two. risk of developing TSS is lower in women who use menstrual pads, 9 reasons why your period may be late, including stress, changes to sleep schedule, and more, The 4 best home remedies for period cramps, The truth about period syncing and the real reason you may be experiencing it, What everyone should know about birth control, from the types to effectiveness, How birth control pills work by tricking the body into thinking it's already pregnant. Next up: her own show. Firstly, you might be using a tampon with a lower absorbency than is required for your menstrual flow. Wash your hands before and after using a tampon. They can be worn for up to 12 hours at a time. If your periods are heavy, the cup may runneth over long before the 12 hours. Wear a pad and you can be (relatively) assured that you won't ruin a whole set of underwear. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. Similarly, some tampon users prefer them for movement-heavy activities like dancing or running, as sanitary pads can shift around and cause irritation or limit movement. I ended up finding out on my first visit to the gynecologist that my vaginal opening is pretty small, which explained to me why tampons never felt right. We were accused of being "too afraid" to use tampons (hello, toxic shock syndrome! 3 toxic shock syndrome facts. May be better for heavy periods: Women and girls who have heavy periods have to change their menstrual hygiene product more often than others. We include products we think are useful for our readers. It can't travel to other parts of your body, like your stomach. Cramps Ross A, et al. Tampons are easy to use, but you do need to learn how to put them in. Ultimately, talk to your GP to find the best and safest product for you. You can reduce your risk of irritation by changing menstrual pads frequently, and choosing pads made from non-plastic materials. Share on Facebook (opens in a new window), Share on Flipboard (opens in a new window), Stock images perpetuate the myth that women are weaker when they're on their period, YouTube's favorite ghoul boys, Shane Madej and Ryan Bergara, tell us what they've been watching, Now you can pause your Snapchat Streak without any stress, Dictionary.com defines the times with 1,500 new words, revisions, The TikTok 'bold glamour' filter is going viral for its wildly unrealistic beauty standard, TikTok Visionary Lynae Vanee is a 'content creator down for the cause', A24's 'Everything Everywhere All at Once' charity auction raised over $500,000, How to watch 'The Weekend: Live From SoFi Stadium' and bring the concert experience home, Pedro Pascal narrated an audiobook if you want 8 straight hours of his voice, It's time to put 'The Bachelor' out to pasture, Warner Bros. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); Your email address will not be published. Nonfoux L, et al. Your email address will not be published. Does pulling out a tampon make you feel like you're dragging out a placenta? Tampons are a great option for women who swim or do other athletic activities. Its important to note that not all cups are reusable, so be sure to read the label if you prefer a reusable cup. "Why do you want to wear an adult diaper?" If you menstruate but dont identify as female, this can cause some pretty unpleasant feelings of dysphoria and general discomfort. If youre just starting out, you may have to try a few sizes to see which one fits you the best. People believe that gender equality is improving, but the rest of the data tells a different story. Yes, pads usually hold more blood than tampons. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 2023 PUBLIC GOODS - All Rights Reserved. However, those who have sensitive internal organs and/or sensitivities to tampon products may find that tampons make cramps more painful. Theyre also great if your new to the world of menstruation or have a hard time wearing tampons. Double! Another possibility could be that the tampon isnt inserted correctly. Another advantage to tampons is that they can't be felt because they're inside the body. These little cotton cylindrical pads that fit inside your vagina are currently the most popular menstrual product. Luckily, that can't happen. The risk of toxic shock syndrome is higher with tampons. Inserting them can be uncomfortable, especially when trying a new one. Others include menstrual cups, cloth pads, menstrual disks, free bleeding, and period panties like Thinx. Other . A yeast infection is a fungal infection that can cause itching, burning, redness in your vagina. Pads are rectangles of absorbent materials that stick to the inside of your 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? If youre comfortable using tampons, but not inserting them with your fingers, you may want to choose tampons with applicators. Answer (1 of 23): Actually, neither! Washable Pads. They're soft, they're flexible, and they're even more adept than paper towels at cleaning up dog piss on the floor. Tampons are compact and easy to transport especially if you go without the applicator, said Siriouthay. You dont need to be a tampon user to see the obvious pros of tampons. Sizes vary between brands so getting the right fit may take some (costly) trial and error. You cant feel them once theyre in properly. How often should I change my tampon? Many girls start out using pads, but might want to use tampons when they do sports or go swimming. (Tampons admittedly have a minor advantage there.). 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. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. We may hear stigmatizing beliefs about our bodies, such as the notion that tampon use can take our virginity. It also means less landfill waste and fewer trees being cut down to make paper-based options and packaging. Some women also prefer tampons because they're easier to carry and you don't feel them the same way you do pads.. Others may feel more secure and less exposed with pads, since tampons are internally worn and can be difficult to locate if they are accidentally forgotten inside. They're also less visible under clothing. With proper care and cleaning, a menstrual cup can last up to 10 years, making them a great economical choice. They can be inserted into your vagina with your hands or with an applicator. Then try a pad. I had my periods when I was 13! Pros. Here are some things to consider when choosing between the two most common products: tampons vs pads. If you have a pet at home, make sure you throw tampons away in a trash can that your pet can't get into. Tampons were always uncomfortable. Many girls worry the tampon might get lost inside them. And if youre totally comfortable, you can choose applicator-free tampons, which are more compact and reduce menstrual waste. Pad users, in their minds, are . I didn't die. By: Author Olin Wade (Remodel or Move Stuff). You dont have to worry about them being visible (minus the whole issue of tampon strings in swimsuit). They are confident that their hygiene product is the superior one. Try to use the least-absorbent tampon that you need. Calling all Disney adults and 'Titanic' fanatics. You can expect to pay around $0.13 to $0.20 per tampon for a plastic applicator. Required fields are marked *. 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. The answer to this question depends on the individual. Your vagina is self-cleaning and doesn't need any form of soap, chemical, or perfume. Lastly, there may be religious or cultural concerns that discourage or prohibit the use of tampons. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Though theres still have a lot of work to do, more and more companies are taking a more inclusive approach in the design and marketing of their products. Tampons are cylindrical inserts that go inside your vagina, whereas pads are absorbent linings designed to stick to your underwear. She also sent a broader message that elite sport and menstruation can coexist. Though people have been doing it for ages, the free bleeding movement has been receiving mainstream attention since Kiran Gandhi ran the London Marathon while free bleeding in 2015. And we dont have to be embarrassed or ashamed of not wanting to do an activity because of our menstruation or menstrual cramps, either. Required fields are marked *. For example, if you are a regular swimmer, tampons will be a better option than pads when you are on your period. If youre prone to waking up to sheets that resemble a crime scene, then the biggest pad with wings is probably at the top of the list. They were artificially . Change the pad about every 34 hours. It is absolutely normal to not want to use tampons! You may need to test a few different sizes and experiment before picking the tampon thats right for you.. We want to avoid vaginal infections or materials that could harm our reproductive health. This stops the blood from spilling and leaking. Doing so effectively can only be done with quality information. 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. It served as a quiet tale of tampon use. Pads can also have "wings." Those wretched, bulky layers of plastic that ended up in my underwear every month made the whole process very uncomfortable. find tampons hard to insert or uncomfortable to wear, wear tampons but want some back-up protection against leaks. Changing pads often can cut down on any odor. They create less waste in landfills than disposable products. 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. Many people tend to tense up, resulting in difficulty with insertion. 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.