Other tampons can be put in using your fingers. To take the tampon out, pull gently on the string attached to the end of it. It is also suggested that menstrual cups are a better alternative for reducing the risk of TSS and other infections. They are comfortable and even recommended for women who engage in exercises like running, dancing, swimming, jogging, etc. Calling all Disney adults and 'Titanic' fanatics. 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. This is when the female body prepares itself for. Pads can come in different sizes. 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. If you have really heavy periods, you may need to change it more than every 3 to 4 hours. Heres what you need to know about how to insert them, clean them, and more. 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. (2018). None of this is to say that menstrual pads are inherently more worthy than tampons or even, necessarily a better choice. Pads are much more environmentally . Why do I prefer pads over tampons? - remodelormove.com Push the tampon into your vagina using the applicator or your finger, depending on what kind of tampon you have. Its extremely important to change your tampon every 4 to 6 hours. How often should I change my pad? Theyve come a long way since the bulky, diaper-esque pads you still hear horror stories about. 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. That includes non-menstrual cases, too. 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. Theyre more flexible and less bulky than most pads. tampon loyalists will ask. Asking for tampons, complaining about tampons, saying they were better than pads because pads are like diapers. A new initiative called . 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. 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. 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. The FDA also advises that tampons be left in your body for a maximum of 8 hours. For those with sensitive skin, irritation or discomfort may occur due to tampon fibers and material, which are often harsher than those in pads. This means that your blood and other menstrual fluids will flow freely, just as they would without any protection. By: Author Olin Wade (Remodel or Move Stuff). It's unclear how tampons came to enjoy such prestige, even if that power doesn't translate into numbers. Of all the props, Raccacoonie made a mint. You can reduce your risk of irritation by changing menstrual pads frequently, and choosing pads made from non-plastic materials. More U.S. women use pads than tampons, according to a survey of 739 women conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Pads are usually made up of an absorbent material and they're designed to stick right on to your underwear. Other . 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. 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. 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. In Rio, explaining her third-place swim, Yuanhui blamed it on cramps. Others include menstrual cups, cloth pads, menstrual disks, free bleeding, and period panties like Thinx. Dont be afraid to mix it up to accommodate the stages of your cycle. (2018). It used to be primarily associated with using super-absorbent tampons. In this article, well break down everything you need to know about the differences between pads and tampons. Pads can't be worn while you're swimming or taking a bath, while tampons are an option. Follow her on Twitter @wear_a_helmet. Theyre also less visible under clothing. If you menstruate but dont identify as female, this can cause some pretty unpleasant feelings of dysphoria and general discomfort. Can a tampon get lost inside my body? You have to wash them, which can be an issue if you need to change them on the go. Tampons are also a better choice for swimming. Cramps They cost less than some other reusable period products. Most tampons are generally the same length. But nearly a century into commercial tampon availability in the West, where does our pad preference come from? ", OB-GYN University of Colorado: "How To Insert A Tampon. Ultimately, the choice is up to you. Ultimately, it is your choice as to which type of protection you prefer. You cant feel them when theyre in properly. Ross A, et al. 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. Reusable products arent for everyone, however: Menstrual cups can be difficult to insert for menstruators who arent as comfortable touching their own vaginas, and period panties require easy laundry access. Tampons vs. Pads: Is One Better Than the Other? - Healthline 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. Learn how IUDs can affect your menstrual flow and what you can do about it. 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. Chris, 35. See you at your inbox! 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. 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. .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? Teaching Your Tween How to Use Tampons - Verywell Family 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.". But between these options, and the classic tampons and pads, menstruators today have so much to choose from. Maxi pads can shift or bunch up and cause accidents that we really can't afford to have! They can stain if you dont rinse them right away. Tampons come in a range of sizes, from light to heavy absorbencies; can be scented or unscented (though most gynecologists advise menstruators to choose unscented tampons), and can be made of 100% organic cotton or cotton/synthetic blends. By signing up to the Mashable newsletter you agree to receive electronic communications If you have any concerns or questions about your period, talk to your mom, dad, or doctor. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Heres our process. You have to insert it into your vagina with your fingers or an applicator that holds the tampon inside it. However, tampons can be a great option for those who are more active and want to enjoy activities such as swimming without having to worry about leaks. Prior to joining Mashable, Heather wrote regularly for UPROXX and GOOD Magazine, was published in The Daily Dot and VICE, and had her work featured in Entertainment Weekly, Jezebel, Mic, and Gawker. Nothing could be more personal, more intimate, than how women manage their periods. If you use tampons and get any of these symptoms, take out the tampon and tell an adult immediately. 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. Pads are worn in your underwear, completely outside your body. 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. . Theyre reusable, so theyre good for your wallet and the planet in the long run. Scented pads and tampons can actually mess with your vagina's natural pH and cause problems including bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. 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. why do some women "pad shame/bully" women for using pads? Once inside your vagina, they absorb blood and when you are ready to take it out, you can pull on the dangling string. "Differentiation between menstrual products is a personal choice as long as they are used as directed, either are efficacious," says Gaither. With only 2% of the population using tampons, she provided information about options. The material usually has small holes inside of it so it sucks the period blood into itself. The Best Period Underwear Options for Any Situation. Relax and you'll be able to find it. Does pulling out a tampon make you feel like you're dragging out a placenta? Pad users, in their minds, are . These bacteria can enter the body through the vagina and cause illnesses.. Most menstrual pads are made of absorbent material like cotton and super absorbent polymer. 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. They can shift out of place and wrinkle up in the center when youre moving. And we dont have to be embarrassed or ashamed of not wanting to do an activity because of our menstruation or menstrual cramps, either. 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. Pros. The answer to this question depends on the individual. Luckily, with a few simple guidelines, both pads and tampons are highly safe. You can choose tampons made of non-plastic materials, like 100% organic cotton, and pads made of quickly regenerating materials like bamboo. Many people with vaginas have been brought up to experience shame around our menstruation. She let women in China know that, yes, there are ways to swim while you have your period. There could be a few reasons why your tampon is not absorbing blood. 14 Tampon Size FAQ: Comparison Chart, Types, Fit, Ease of - Healthline We were accused of being "too afraid" to use tampons (hello, toxic shock syndrome! Tampons also come in different sizes meant for both heavy and light blood flows. They come in a variety of sizes and colors and can be reused for three to five years. 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. Many girls start out using pads, but might want to use tampons when they do sports or go swimming. Do whatever it takes to make you happy and the people around you. Tampons are inserted into the body and expand to hold the menstrual blood. If youre comfortable using tampons, but not inserting them with your fingers, you may want to choose tampons with applicators. To Padable, tampon and pad-users everywhere: we're proud of you too. The biggest downside to wearing tampons is the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TTS). 'Cause you're worth it, and you deserve it. The amount and duration of your period is determined by a variety of factors and usually does not change with free bleeding. If you have a lighter flow, you may have more flexibility in your choice of product. Easy to use: Pads are easier to use than tampons. Free bleeding is having your period without wearing tampons, pads, or any other fluid barriers. With proper care and cleaning, a menstrual cup can last up to 10 years, making them a great economical choice. Try out different options to find what works best. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), however, advises against reusable tampons, as they are more likely to cause fungal, yeast, or bacterial infections. A 2000 study by Procter & Gamble found only 2 percent of women in Mexico plugged up during their time of month; the figure improved only slightly in a 1990 Public Health Report survey that showed . The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox. Steps for removing tampons: When selecting a tampon, its important to choose one that is suitable for your individual needs. That, by eschewing the more discreet option, renders them less feminist, less empowered, less hip. Woke, trauma dumping, queerbaiting, petfluencer, and other extremely online words appeared in new or revised entries. I didn't die. Ranging from personal preference to medical concerns. Generally, allergy to materials found within tampons is rare but it is still possible for it to occur. 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. Your email address will not be published. DOI: Period products: Information about tampons, pads, and more. Theres a lot of culture-specific stigmatizations around periods, said Siriouthay. This article was medically reviewed by Irena Cabrera, MD, OBGYN at. All rights reserved. Another advantage to tampons is that they can't be felt because they're inside the body. They're also less visible under clothing. Deciding which one to use doesnt have to be hard. Investing in a waterproof mattress protector is also a good idea. Toketemu Ohwovorioleis a freelance writer for Insider. People believe that gender equality is improving, but the rest of the data tells a different story. Jose Garcia, from Miami, Florida, posted his message on Instagram . 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. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Pads are rectangle-shaped pieces of absorbent material which you can stick onto the inside of your underwear. 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.. Yes, a flow can be too heavy for tampons. The risk of toxic shock syndrome is higher with tampons. Jose Garcia, from Miami, Florida, posted his message on Instagram . They arent very discreet thanks to the very obvious sound of pulling them off your underwear. In truth, virginity is a cultural category that some people use to define whether weve had sex. Additionally, pads do not require any application nor do they pose any risk of irritation or injury associated with insertion. I had enough reasons to hate them. We've listed out some of the pros and cons of each product to help you decide for yourself. So it's very important that you change your tampon at least every 4-6 hours, even if your period is light. Tampons Vs. Pads: Pros, Cons, and Which Is Better for You - Insider How Often Should You Condition Your Hair? What's the Link Between Tampons and Cramps? 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. If you keep it in for longer, it can cause harmful bacteria to grow. How Many Women Don't Use Tampons? | FiveThirtyEight Additionally, it is important to note that tampons are not meant to be worn for more than eight hours at a time and that wearing one for longer can increase the risk for toxic shock syndrome. 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. 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 are compact and easy to transport especially if you go without the applicator, said Siriouthay. Pros. When you change your pads regularly, you stop harmful germs called bacteria from growing in them. Pads are rectangles of absorbent materials that stick to the inside of your underwear. Difference Between Pads and Tampons - WebMD These absorbent panties can hold as much as a couple of pads or tampons worth of blood, depending which ones you buy. The directions inside the box will explain how to do that. Together, we can build a world where people aren't defined by what hygiene product they have between their legs. 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. Plus, they dont make the whooshy diaper sound that disposable pads often make. Of all the feminist alleyways one might stumble down online, a noteworthy one is the menstrual community. Dramatically overstated fears of TSS still see some women disinclined to use tampons. Tampon users and pad users can get along. Padable told me. Menstrual cups are flexible cups made of silicone or rubber that you wear inside your vagina to catch menstrual blood. From reducing waste to recycling and upcycling, our e-book shows simple ways to make choices you can feel good about. You should still remember to change the pads regularly., Cons. 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). Choosing between tampons and pads comes down to what your preferences are. 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. What was this cramp? Pads come in different sizes for heavier and . Tired of tampons? But what is better: tampons vs pads? Their two-part design makes them less convenient for changing on the fly. (2017). 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. (2016). Changing pads regularly also helps to control smells. Much like well-known drugstore brands, direct-to-consumer tampon brands offer light- and ultra-absorbency options in addition to regular tampons. Many girls wonder: how do you put them in? document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); By clicking 'Sign Up' you agree to receive marketing emails from PUBLIC GOODS. Dear Chris, You're not so strange. The time has come to reclaim the menstrual pad. Should I use bladder pads or disposable briefs for my - Nexwear 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. You may need to test a few different sizes and experiment before picking the tampon thats right for you.. 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. It's fully inside your body with the exception . The Best Period Underwear, Cups, Pads, and Products (2023) - WIRED Ask your best friend if she has a free pad and watch her otherwise very kind jaw drop to the floor. Despite asbestos not being an ingredient in any tampons wed buy in countries such as Australia or the US, such myths wont die. Then try a pad. Unlike tampons, pad users wear them outside of their vaginas, usually using adhesive to stick them to underwear. Using a tampon is not the same thing as having penetrative sex, and both having sex and using tampons are totally personal decisions. Women are also pretty loyal to managing their periods how they always have. When you insert a tampon, make sure it is inserted far enough so that the string is below the opening of the vagina. They must be thoroughly cleaned and dried before storing after your cycle. I think theres a lot of hesitation to try these products because of how were trained to think about our periods: dirty, shouldnt be seen, and evidence of having one should be discarded, said Siriouthay. 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. Toxic shock syndrome is a life-threatening condition that happens from certain bacterial infections. Tampons are a popular menstrual product choice for women during their periods. Get medical help immediately if youre wearing a tampon and are experiencing any signs of toxic shock syndrome. You cant swim in them. 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. Toxic shock syndrome. But they still can't get lost in your body. Pad and tampons might seem like two different species, but both are equally bad when it comes to their affect on mother nature. 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. Wash your hands and get into a comfortable position. The choice to use tampons, pads, or a combination of both is a personal one. Or maybe it's because tampons are sleek and sexy, built like supermodels, and pads are broad-shouldered, aka, "body positive.". "Super" generally means that variety is for heavy flow. That's just my thoughts but I have no idea why as I don't do it myself. Like pads, tampons come in different sizes for heavier and lighter periods. A tampon's absorbent material is pressed tight into a small cylinder shape. It can't travel to other parts of your body, like your stomach. How to Use a Tampon (with Pictures) - wikiHow I was at high school throughout much of the 1990s. The Nemours Foundation. They call menstrual pads wasteful even though used tampon applicators are more popular than grains of sand on a Brooklyn beach. Others find menstrual pads less comfortable. Cumulative exposure and feminine care products. Some women prefer menstrual cups because they are a tampon alternative that can be safely worn up to 12 hours. The first modern tampons, similar to those we use today, were invented in 1929 by a physician named Dr. Earle Haas. 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. And if youre totally comfortable, you can choose applicator-free tampons, which are more compact and reduce menstrual waste. You may see red, brown, and even black blood during your period. There are two types of tampons: disposable and reusable. Nemours Children's Health and KidsHealth are registered trademarks of The Nemours Foundation. Discovery alleges that Paramount undercut their $500 million deal. Then, wrap it in toilet paper, and throw it in the trash. Again, regular changing usually can manage any odor concerns. Learning more about each product can help you figure out which ones the best choice for you. But I could never use tampons . And some girls with heavy periods use tampons together with pads or pantiliners for added protection against leakage. 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. Now, that system includes using a tampon on lighter days and doubling up with a heavy absorbency tampon and a pad on heavier days. Theyre also great if your new to the world of menstruation or have a hard time wearing tampons. I usually wear pads, just rather have the . Your email address will not be published. Alternatively, you can stand to insert a tampon, placing one foot on a higher surface such as a toilet seat. And for women with a particularly heavy flow, tampons are oftentimes perceived as less reliable. It took Siriouthay some time to figure out a menstrual care system that worked for her. Tampon versus pad: why more women still choose the - The Conversation Each of these options is reusable, meaning they have less of an environmental impact than disposable pads and tampons. A place where period activism is out, is proud. Pads are much more environmentally friendly to dispose of since they are made of biodegradable materials. ), I wore my first menstrual pad at the age of 11. Some may be slightly shorter in order to be better sized for travel or on-the-go use. A time when Girlfriend and Dolly were only seemed to publish stories about toxic shock syndrome. You dont need to be a tampon user to see the obvious pros of tampons. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. One possible explanation is that your body may be reacting to the increase of pressure in your uterus when the tampon is inserted. You dont have to worry about them being visible (minus the whole issue of tampon strings in swimsuit). Alternate between tampons and pads when your flow is light. 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. Note: All information on KidsHealth is for educational purposes only. We take your words seriously. If youre just starting out, you may have to try a few sizes to see which one fits you the best. Carolyn Twersky is an associate editor for Seventeen covering celebrities, entertainment, politics, trends, and health. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations.