Although sanitary pads are one of the most popular choices in menstrual hygiene products, insertable hygiene products like menstrual cups and tampons are convenient to use. Tampons are one of the feminine hygiene products that is supposed to be inserted into the vagina during periods to absorb the blood. They are made of soft absorbent materials such as cotton or rayon. They come in several sizes and absorbance capacities to suit different types of period flow.
Read on to know more about tampons and their utility value with our comprehensive guide.
Advantages of using tampons
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Tampons have multiple benefits over other menstrual hygiene products, like pads, period panties or menstrual cups. Here are some of the key reasons for using tampons:
Comfort and convenience: Tampons are commonly considered more convenient and comfortable than pads, as they are inserted directly into the vagina and do not result in the feeling of bulkiness or shifting like pads.
Freedom to move: They allow freedom of movement, especially during physical activity. They do not move like pads, which can cause discomfort.
Discreet alternative: Evidently, tampons are more discreet than pads, since they are not visible from the outside of clothing. This can be especially of concern for women who get self-conscious about their periods.
Minimal odour: Since tampons are insertable menstrual hygiene products, they tend to create less odour than pads.
Lower risk of leaks: Compared to pads, tampons are less likely to leak, especially when they are inserted properly and changed after regular intervals .
Longer wear time: They can be used for up to eight hours at a stretch, depending on the absorbency capacity of the tampon and the period flow.
Eco-friendly option: Tampons are more environmentally friendly than pads, as they result in less waste. Many types of tampons are made from biodegradable materials, which further reduces their environmental impact.
It is key to note that some women may prefer pads or menstrual cups for various reasons. Tampons are not necessarily the right menstrual product for every woman. So itt is important to choose the menstrual hygiene product that works best for you and your individual needs.
Different types of tampons
Applicator tampons
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Applicator tampons come with a plastic or cardboard applicator that helps in inserting the tampon . The applicator is easy to use, and women ordinarily find it more convenient than inserting the tampon manually.
Non-applicator tampons
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Non-applicator tampons are inserted manually into the vagina. These tampons are more environmentally friendly since they result in less wastage, but they could be more difficult to use than applicator tampons.
Organic tampons
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Organic tampons are made from natural, biodegradable and organic materials, like cotton or bamboo. They are free of synthetic materials, fragrances, and dyes, which can be safer for sensitive skin.
Tampons with plastic-free applicators
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This tampon is designed with a plastic-free applicator, which is made from materials like plant-based plastics or cardboard. These applicators are more eco-friendly than traditional plastic applicators.
Tampons with different absorbency levels
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Tampons come in a variety of absorbency levels, from light to super plus. It is important to choose the absorbency level that is suitable for your menstrual flow.
Tampons with special features
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Some tampons come with specific features, like a curved shape or a flexible core, which are designed to provide more comfort and protection from leakage.
How to use tampons?
Here are the steps to insert and remove a tampon without hassle:
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Inserting a tampon:
Start by washing your hands properly with soap and water. Ensure that you have picked a tampon with the appropriate absorbency level for your flow.
Find a comfortable position to insert the tampon. You could sit on the toilet or stand with one foot on the toilet seat, or squat.
Hold the tampon applicator or the base of the tampon with your fingers and place the tip at the opening of the vagina.
Gently push the tampon or the applicator into your vagina using your index or middle finger till the tampon is completely inside.
Push the applicator plunger or the base of the tampon with your fingers to release the tampon from the applicator or to ensure the tampon is inserted properly.
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Removing a tampon:
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before removing the tampon.
Find a comfortable position, such as sitting on the toilet, standing with one foot on the toilet seat, or squatting to remove the tampon.
Gently tug at the string attached to the base of the tampon downward and slightly to one side until the tampon comes out.
Discard the used tampon by wrapping it in toilet paper and dispose of it in the trash.
It is of utmost importance to change your tampon every four to eight hours, or more frequently if you have a heavy flow. Also read the instructions on the tampon packaging and follow them for safety. If you experience any discomfort, pain, or any other unusual symptoms while using tampons, such as itching or burning, consult with your healthcare provider without delay.
Common myths and misconceptions about tampons
There are several myths and misconceptions about tampons that we may have had at some point. Here are some common myths and misconceptions about tampons:
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Tampons can get lost inside your body:
This is one of the most common myths about tampons, but it is not physiologically possible. The cervix (the opening to the uterus) is too small for a tampon to go through. If you cannot find the string to remove the tampon, it may have shifted up in the vagina. You can remove it by bearing down with your pelvic muscles or asking your healthcare provider for assistance.
Tampons can break the hymen
The hymen partially covers the opening of the vagina, and it can be broken or stretched in many ways, such as physical activity or masturbation. Tampon use does not typically cause the hymen to break, but it is possible for some women to experience discomfort or pain during their first few times using tampons.
Tampons can cause infertility
There is no scientific evidence to support that tampon use can result in infertility. The vagina is separate from the reproductive system, and tampon use does not affect the ovaries or uterus in any way.
Tampons can cause toxic shock syndrome (TSS)
TSS is a rare occurrence but a serious bacterial infection that can occur. Tampon use has been linked to TSS, but it is important to note that the risk is extremely low. You can reduce the risk by ensuring to change your tampon every four to eight hours, using the lowest absorbency level needed, and alternating between tampons and pads.
Tampons should not be used during exercise or swimming
Tampons can be safely and conveniently used during exercise or swimming or any other physical activity, and they may even be more comfortable than pads. Make sure to change your tampon as needed, especially after swimming, to prevent the risk of infection.
Tampons vs. menstrual cups and pads
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Material: Menstrual cups are usually made of medical-grade silicone or latex rubber, while pads are made of cotton or other absorbent materials, and tampons are typically made of cotton, rayon, or a combination of materials.
Reusability: Menstrual cups are reusable, meaning you can wash and reuse them for several menstrual cycles, while pads and tampons are disposable and need to be thrown away after use.
Absorbency: Tampons come in different absorbency levels to accommodate different flow levels, while pads and menstrual cups come in different sizes based on the user’s age and flow level.
Duration of use: As mentioned earlier, tampons should be changed every four to eight hours, while menstrual cups can be worn for longer periods of time. Pads typically can be used for four to six hours and menstrual cups can be worn up to 12 hours.
Environmental impact: Menstrual cups are more environmentally friendly than pads and tampons, as they are reusable and can last for years, while pads and tampons contribute to landfill waste.
Comfort: Some women find menstrual cups more comfortable than pads and tampons, as they do not cause dryness or discomfort that can sometimes occur with use of tampons and pads.
Learning curve: Menstrual cups may require a bit more of a learning curve than pads and tampons, as they require proper insertion and removal techniques that can take some practice to master.
Odour control: Tampons and menstrual cups are both effective at controlling odour, while pads can sometimes cause more odour to develop.
To conclude, tampons have several advantages over pads and menstrual cups but it’s not necessary that they are the choice of menstrual hygiene product for every woman. They could be challenging to use, particularly for beginners. Hence, even after a few tries, if you cannot get used to tampons, switch to other alternatives that suit your preferences.
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