The first modern tampons, similar to those we use today, were invented in 1929 by a physician named Dr. Earle Haas. Deciding which one to use doesnt have to be hard. Moreover, many people find pads to be more cost effective than tampons since they generally need to be replaced less frequently. 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. 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. The best way to reduce the environmental impact is to choose reusable menstrual options, like period panties or menstrual cups. 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). Calling all Disney adults and 'Titanic' fanatics. Plus, today you can find reusable cups, washable pads, and period-proof panties, among other things. If you need help, tell a parent. Menstrual cups are flexible devices made from silicone or rubber that are inserted into the vagina, with the aim of collecting menstrual blood. An applicator is a plastic or cardboard tube that guides the tampon into the vagina. Difference Between Pads and Tampons - WebMD (n.d.). 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. Luckily, with a few simple guidelines, both pads and tampons are highly safe. Wear a pad and you can be (relatively) assured that you won't ruin a whole set of underwear. Pads can be thought of as a safer option than tampons, as pads do not come with the same risk of TSS. It is absolutely normal to not want to use tampons! Tampons are also a better choice for swimming. And if youre totally comfortable, you can choose applicator-free tampons, which are more compact and reduce menstrual waste. 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. Pads are rectangles of absorbent materials that stick to the inside of your underwear. Use the lowest absorbency tampon possible. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Toxic shock syndrome is treated as a medical emergency. Enter your email for 25% off your first order. You have to insert it into your vagina with your fingers or an applicator that holds the tampon inside it. Even though pads are thinner than ever, theyre more likely to be visible under certain types of clothing. A place where period activism is out, is proud. 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. 11 Lack of Confidence. This will help reduce the spread of bacteria. Theyre more cost-effective in the long run. Many girls start out using pads, but might want to use tampons when they do sports or go swimming. Some users find menstrual pads more comfortable because they prefer not to insert a product into their vaginas. You cant feel them when theyre in properly. Natural pads may be more comfortable and provide healthier options than those containing chemicals. They create less waste in landfills than disposable products. Tampon users and pad users can get along. If your periods are heavy, the cup may runneth over long before the 12 hours. Hemp Oil For Dogs: Benefits, Safety Tips, Dosage and More, My Top 11 Favorite Movies About Wellness and Sustainability. Change to a new tampon at least every 4 to 6 hours. Period panties, menstrual underwear whatever you call them, theyre a thing. The Best Period Underwear Options for Any Situation. (Tampons admittedly have a minor advantage there.). 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. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); By clicking 'Sign Up' you agree to receive marketing emails from PUBLIC GOODS. 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. 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 6 Best Pads For A Heavy Flow, According To Gynecologists They cost less than some other reusable period products. Women are also pretty loyal to managing their periods how they always have. The tampons vs. pads debate has been around for what feels like forever. Over time, though, I came to grow ashamed of my sanitary napkins as tampon users ascended and "pad-shaming" became more powerful. Some women also prefer tampons because they're easier to carry and you . Menstrual cups can be worn for 4-12 hours, depending on flow and can generally hold more than a normal tampon. The hymen can separate during tampon insertion and cause discomfort. 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). 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. Mean Girls: you havent lost your virginity if you use a tampon. Tampons and pads are both disposable products. You can expect to pay around $0.13 to $0.20 per tampon for a plastic applicator. Dont leave your tampon in for longer than 8 hours! advised Siriouthay. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. You dont need to be a tampon user to see the obvious pros of tampons. They are also especially great for overnight use. Tampons expand as they absorb fluid, pushing against the vaginal canal, and this can actually contribute to cramp pain, said Siriouthay. Tampons post a slightly greater risk than pads, as theyve been linked to toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare but potentially fatal infection caused by a buildup of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria in the vagina. (Take it from someone whos endured the horror of watching her pad float on by while swimming with friends.). 5 Best Tampons - Mar. 2023 - BestReviews And they challenge our cultures emphasis on unsustainable, single-use products. While most people who menstruate have had that moment of awkwardness, we dont have to miss our favorite activities for a week every month if we dont want to. 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. When you try one for the first time, wash your hands well, follow the directions carefully, and be sure to relax. Tampons are associated with an increased risk of a rare condition called toxic shock syndrome. They arent very discreet thanks to the very obvious sound of pulling them off your underwear. Teaching Your Tween How to Use Tampons - Verywell Family ", Mayo Clinic: "Bacterial vaginosis," "Toxic shock syndrome," "Yeast infection (vaginal). For starters, most cups are reusable: just rinse and wear them again! 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. Some tampons have tampon applicators, thin plastic applicators or cardboard tubes that help users insert the tampons. Like other menstrual products, cups have their pros and cons, but the pros are pretty impressive. (2018). Others find menstrual pads less comfortable. All of these features make pads the preferred choice for many people. Wearing period panties might be a good way to transition to free bleeding if you want to try it out but are hesitant. They're also great if your new to the world of menstruation or have a hard time wearing tampons. Cumulative exposure and feminine care products. Ultimately, it is your choice as to which type of protection you prefer. Due to their size and the way that they are inserted, tampons can only hold a limited amount of menstrual blood before needing to be changed. Tampons also are easy to store in a purse or pocket. These absorbent panties can hold as much as a couple of pads or tampons worth of blood, depending which ones you buy. With maxi pads, you can never feel 100% confident that your pad won't show or that it won't leak. Id speculate most Western countries have similar figures. Push the tampon into your vagina using the applicator or your finger, depending on what kind of tampon you have. For those watching in her motherland of China, Yuanhuis story was one of possibilities. Heather was the Web Trends reporter at Mashable NYC. If you have a heavy flow like me, I would suggest a system like this or wear an extra absorbent, extra-long pad, she said. You have to wash them, which can be messy, especially when youre out and about. If youre not comfortable inserting something into your vagina, thats totally okayyou can choose to use pads instead. Some girls find that using an applicator-style tampon (especially one with a rounded top) and a slender-sized tampon makes it easier at first. So it's very important that you change your tampon at least every 4-6 hours, even if your period is light. Firstly, pads are generally more comfortable to wear than tampons due to their design, allowing for more airflow and wicking away any moisture. Here are some things to consider when choosing between the two most common products: tampons vs pads. Either way, says Siriouthay, Periods shouldnt be taboo.. People believe that gender equality is improving, but the rest of the data tells a different story. Also, no matter how thin your pad is, it may be visible under tight or minimal clothing., Pros. They can shift out of place and wrinkle up in the center when youre moving. All rights reserved. Additionally, since they are absorbent, they minimize the risk of leaking or staining clothing or other fabrics. Pads are often the go-to choice for first-time period users, as they are more visible, larger, and easier to use than tampons. 'Cause you're worth it, and you deserve it. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. A new initiative called . If you menstruate but dont identify as female, this can cause some pretty unpleasant feelings of dysphoria and general discomfort. Here are some tips and tricks to help you find the answer to 'Wordle' #622. 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. Everyone has their own preferences and comfort levels and not wanting to use tampons is just as valid as wanting to use them. 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. How do I choose the right pad for me? Reusable products, on the other hand, challenge the out of sight, out of mind mentality of menstruation. If you have a pet at home, make sure you throw pads away in a trash can that your pet can't get into. Don't flush it in the toilet even tampons that say they're flushable can still cause problems in some toilets. 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. Other . Vagina Quiz: What Do You Know About Down Below? Luckily, that can't happen. 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. A time when Girlfriend and Dolly were only seemed to publish stories about toxic shock syndrome. 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. Pads and tampons are two of the most common and effective ways to manage period blood. Wash your hands before and after using a tampon. You can also choose pads based on how light or heavy your blood flow is.. Intrauterine devices (IUDs) can cause side effects. Carry disinfecting wipes with you in case blood gets on other surfaces. Like pads, tampons come in different sizes for heavier and lighter periods. Given their way, this sisterhood might even deify Chinese Olympic bronze medallist Fu Yuanhui. Heres a look at all the pros and cons of the most popular menstrual products. These are not the same sponges you wash your dishes or tub with! Its important to note that not all cups are reusable, so be sure to read the label if you prefer a reusable cup. Before you ask: Yes, it's worth the price. Your email address will not be published. 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. These bacteria can enter the body through the vagina and cause illnesses.. The biggest downside to wearing tampons is the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TTS). Tampons should typically be used for no longer than 8 hours, and sometimes an hour or two less than that depending on your flow. Its important to remember to do this because you can sometimes forget you are using one. This can cause gray, white, or green discharge, a fishy-smelling odor, itching, and burning during urination. But they still can't get lost in your body. The biggest risk is viruses, such as hepatitis, which can be transmitted through dried blood for several days. Like pads, tampons also come in deodorizing scents, which can irritate the vagina. advise menstruators to choose unscented tampons. Required fields are marked *. Changing pads regularly also helps to control smells. Ultimately, it is up to the female swimmer to decide which option works best for her individual needs. Steps for removing tampons: I always carry about 3-5 on me.. No, but seriously: These guys don . If you prefer pads to tampons or aren't yet ready to try a menstrual cup, washable pads are another alternative. Some girls find that a slender size, applicator-style tampon is easier to use when they first start their periods. Again, theres nothing to hide here, but you also dont want to feel self-conscious all day. 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. 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.. Menstrual cups are flexible cups made of silicone or rubber that you wear inside your vagina to catch menstrual blood. Youve got options, and at the end of the day its your period, your prerogative. Tampons, on the other hand, are designed to be inserted into the vagina during menstruation and absorb the menstrual flow. Follow her on Twitter @wear_a_helmet. Dont be afraid to mix it up to accommodate the stages of your cycle. Just dont!. 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. If you do prefer pads or tampons, however, Siriouthay said there are a few things you can do to make your period more sustainable. If you have a lighter flow, you may have more flexibility in your choice of product. It's possible to forget you have a tampon in and insert another one. 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 . These little cotton cylindrical pads that fit inside your vagina are currently the most popular menstrual product. ", U.S. Food & Drug Administration: "The Facts on Tamponsand How to Use Them Safely.". Your Privacy Choices: Opt Out of Sale/Targeted Ads. 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. How do I use tampons, pads, period underwear, and menstrual cups? You should change your tampon every 4 to 6 hours. Tampons are easy to use, but you do need to learn how to put them in. Cons. You should still remember to change the pads regularly., Cons. However, some users can experience skin irritation from menstrual pad use, especially in hot, moist weather conditions. Tampons are a great option for women who swim or do other athletic activities. Nothing could be more personal, more intimate, than how women manage their periods. Bacterial vaginosis is a kind of vaginal inflammation that happens when bacteria found naturally in your vagina overgrow. Outside of Pete Evans-style medical information, a range of cultural and social reasons continue to dissuade tampon use. Being reusable means you save a lot of money. Fast facts: Nine things you didn't know about menstruation. When you change your pads regularly, you stop harmful germs called bacteria from growing in them. The risk of toxic shock syndrome is higher with tampons. And 70 per cent of women said they were comfortable with continuing to use the cups. It used to be primarily associated with using super-absorbent tampons. 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.. If youre going to give free bleeding a try, stained clothing and sheets are pretty much a given. They come in a variety of sizes and colors and can be reused for three to five years. (2018). Reusable cloth pads are washable pads that work like regular disposable pads, only you dont throw them out. They each have pros and cons that could make them a great option for certain lifestyles and an inconvenience for some. Specially designed for heavy flow days, these pads feature special FlexFoam technology for a thin and flexible pad you can barely feel. 1 In 10 College Students Can't Afford Pads Or Tampons. Could - Forbes The data (probably) doesn't lie. It also means less landfill waste and fewer trees being cut down to make paper-based options and packaging. This stops the blood from spilling and leaking. But a tampon looks like a small tube. I didn't turn gay or grow a vagina. Relax and you'll be able to find it. While tampons can be a convenient option to wear during the day, they do carry the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) a rare but potentially severe complication caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus.
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do guys prefer pads or tampons