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.. They are designed to stick on to your underwear and come in different sizes for heavy and light periods. Alternate between tampons and pads when your flow is light. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. They arent very discreet thanks to the very obvious sound of pulling them off your underwear. Some women prefer menstrual cups because they are a tampon alternative that can be safely worn up to 12 hours. Note: All information on KidsHealth is for educational purposes only. 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. Toketemu Ohwovorioleis a freelance writer for Insider. Senior Lecturer, The University of Melbourne. If a person experiences a heavy flow, it may be better to use a combination of tampons and pads, with tampons as the primary form of absorption and pads as extra absorption in the event of leaks. Female swimmers will often take precautions when they experience their period while swimming, such as wearing special period-proof swimwear, using special tampons designed for swimming, or using a menstrual cup. Many young girls/teens after starting their period have to use pads in the beginning, so in their mind, they connect "wearing pads" with the shame, embarrassment, awkwardness, etc they associated their periods with in the beginning. But I could never use tampons . That includes non-menstrual cases, too. You dont have to worry about them being visible (minus the whole issue of tampon strings in swimsuit). 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. Natural pads may be more comfortable and provide healthier options than those containing chemicals. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), however, advises against reusable tampons, as they are more likely to cause fungal, yeast, or bacterial infections. Inserting a tampon in your vagina is more comfortable if you're relaxed. On this occasion, however, a happy consequence of Yuanhuis comments is that she has shed light on options. Asking for tampons, complaining about tampons, saying they were better than pads because pads are like diapers. 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 menstruate but dont identify as female, this can cause some pretty unpleasant feelings of dysphoria and general discomfort. Some tampons dont have applicators, and menstruators simply push these into their vaginas using their fingers. Just as Americans are often horrified to arrive in Australia and discover that we mostly go applicatorless, for many women even those who have read the Female Eunuch there just isnt a desire to get closer to ones uterus lining. We may earn commission from the links on this page. They contribute to a serious waste problem, building up in landfills and sometimes even washing up on beaches. Pads can't be worn while you're swimming or taking a bath, while tampons are an option. Pads are also called sanitary pads or sanitary napkins. Solving Problems With Login To iTunes Account As Well As Your iTunes Sign In. That depends. A pad may feel bulky to some girls. Most menstrual pads are made of absorbent material like cotton and super absorbent polymer. I didn't turn gay or grow a vagina. An applicator with a rounded top can be especially helpful for beginners. 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. Nonfoux L, et al. They're also great if your new to the world of menstruation or have a hard time wearing tampons. If you have a pet at home, make sure you throw tampons away in a trash can that your pet can't get into. Wear a pad and you can be (relatively) assured that you won't ruin a whole set of underwear. 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. I was too embarrassed to say that I had my period and I hadnt yet learned to use tampons. Many period products contain plastics and harmful chemicals. Comfort is a personal preference, but there are some factors you may want to consider when choosing between tampons vs pads. 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. But what is better: tampons vs pads? VanLeeuwen C, et al. 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. Required fields are marked *. This will help reduce the spread of bacteria. Sea sponge tampons are small sponges that are inserted into the vagina like a tampon. Do you ever forget about a tampon? Another study found that women who used tampons and had "average-to-heavy . In this article, well break down everything you need to know about the differences between pads and tampons. She let women in China know that, yes, there are ways to swim while you have your period. Most tampons are generally the same length. Using a tampon is not the same thing as having penetrative sex, and both having sex and using tampons are totally personal decisions. Ultimately, the choice is up to you. Sometimes, pads are called sanitary pads or sanitary napkins. Either way, says Siriouthay, Periods shouldnt be taboo.. Let's start by explaining what each one is. 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. Get medical help immediately if youre wearing a tampon and are experiencing any signs of toxic shock syndrome. Most don't. Tampons can be more convenient for menstruators on the go. I am the heavy flow queen, she said. Period panties, menstrual underwear whatever you call them, theyre a thing. 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. You can also reduce waste by choosing tampons without applicators. Some tampons have tampon applicators, thin plastic applicators or cardboard tubes that help users insert the tampons. However, some users can experience skin irritation from menstrual pad use, especially in hot, moist weather conditions. Pads are rectangle-shaped pieces of absorbent material which you can stick onto the inside of your underwear. Tampons and pads aren't the only two options by any meanssome girls prefer to use .css-lec2h6{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-thickness:0.0625rem;text-decoration-color:inherit;text-underline-offset:0.25rem;color:inherit;-webkit-transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;background-image:linear-gradient( to bottom, rgba(241, 220, 225, 1), rgba(241, 220, 225, 1));-webkit-background-position:0 100%;background-position:0 100%;background-repeat:repeat-x;-webkit-background-size:0 0;background-size:0 0;padding-top:0.05rem;padding-bottom:0.05rem;}.css-lec2h6:hover{color:#000000;text-decoration-color:border-link-body-hover;-webkit-background-size:.625rem 3.125rem;background-size:.625rem 3.125rem;}menstrual cups or even period pantiesbut they're certainly the two most common ways to handle your period. Tampons are a great option for women who swim or do other athletic activities. Luckily, with a few simple guidelines, both pads and tampons are highly safe. Some women strongly prefer tampons over menstrual cups, and there's nothing wrong with thatjust be sure to bring enough tampons to last for your trip. Dear Chris, You're not so strange. Its for this reason that other internal, having-to-touch-the-blood methods like cups and sponges havent yet gone mainstream. It's unclear how tampons came to enjoy such prestige, even if that power doesn't translate into numbers. 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. 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. Many girls worry the tampon might get lost inside them. Tampon usage also retains an ick factor. 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. The material usually has small holes inside of it so it sucks the period blood into itself. Yes, tampons can stop period flow. (n.d.). Your Privacy Choices: Opt Out of Sale/Targeted Ads. The FDA also advises that tampons be left in your body for a maximum of 8 hours. 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. Pads can be thought of as a safer option than tampons, as pads do not come with the same risk of TSS. Are you comfortable inserting something inside yourself, or would you rather let the blood collect into a pad? Don't flush it in the toilet even tampons that say they're flushable can still cause problems in some toilets. 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. . Required fields are marked *. Thats a lot of pros in the cups favor, but its not all rainbows and unicorns. from Mashable that may sometimes include advertisements or sponsored content. 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. Like tampons, theres the environmental factor, though reusable options are now available (more on these later). If youre comfortable using tampons, but not inserting them with your fingers, you may want to choose tampons with applicators. Additionally, pads do not require any application nor do they pose any risk of irritation or injury associated with insertion. 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. We were accused of being "too afraid" to use tampons (hello, toxic shock syndrome! With maxi pads, you can never feel 100% confident that your pad won't show or that it won't leak. Your email address will not be published. DOI: Period products: Information about tampons, pads, and more. If you do prefer pads or tampons, however, Siriouthay said there are a few things you can do to make your period more sustainable. Ultimately, what you need to know when it comes to different tampon sizes is that the size refers to its absorbency, not the actual length or width of. Its impossible for you to lose your tampon inside your body. Some of us use exclusively one kind of product; many of us use a mix. If you prefer pads to tampons or aren't yet ready to try a menstrual cup, washable pads are another alternative. Unlike tampons, pad users wear them outside of their vaginas, usually using adhesive to stick them to underwear. Tampons (say: TAM-ponz) also absorb menstrual blood, but they work from inside the vagina. 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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. They are comfortable and even recommended for women who engage in exercises like running, dancing, swimming, jogging, etc. Generally, allergy to materials found within tampons is rare but it is still possible for it to occur. Pads are rectangles of absorbent material that you stick to the inside of your underwear. Your email address will not be published. Finding the right size and type for your flow takes some trial and error (i.e., there will be accidents). Cardboard applicator tampons typically cost between $0.12 and $0.14 per tampon. Tampons also are easy to store in a purse or pocket. Change the pad about every 34 hours. You can store tampons before and after use in an opaque plastic bag for privacy. Use the lowest absorbency tampon possible. Pads are rectangles of absorbent materials that stick to the inside of your underwear. 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. Tampons are inserted into the body and expand to hold the menstrual blood. All rights reserved. When deciding whether to use pads or tampons, it's really up to you. An extension of this is discomfort physically or just psychologically at having something inside you for stretches of time each month. (Take it from someone whos endured the horror of watching her pad float on by while swimming with friends.). Pros. 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. Committee Member - MNF Research Advisory Committee, PhD Scholarship - Uncle Isaac Brown Indigenous Scholarship. Steps for removing tampons: By signing up to the Mashable newsletter you agree to receive electronic communications Pads are usually made up of an absorbent material and they're designed to stick right on to your underwear. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Theyre reusable and some last up to 6 months with proper care and cleaning. It's no different than getting her cold medicine and soup when she . Pads offer a better option for those with heavier flow days, which may require changing more frequently than tampons. For example, if you are a regular swimmer, tampons will be a better option than pads when you are on your period. This pressure can cause your body to naturally reduce the flow of blood from your uterus. Despite asbestos not being an ingredient in any tampons wed buy in countries such as Australia or the US, such myths wont die. 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. 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. Choosing between tampons and pads comes down to what your preferences are. Pads are much more environmentally friendly to dispose of since they are made of biodegradable materials. 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? All rights reserved. They each have pros and cons that could make them a great option for certain lifestyles and an inconvenience for some. 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. The tampons vs. pads debate has been around for what feels like forever. One possible explanation is that your body may be reacting to the increase of pressure in your uterus when the tampon is inserted. Could I have it, too? You cant feel them once theyre in properly. Again, regular changing usually can manage any odor concerns. 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. Review the pros and cons for pads and tampons and decide which one works best for based on your lifestyle and personal choice., Cleveland Clinic: "Are Scented Tampons and Pads Bad for You? Firstly, pads are generally more comfortable to wear than tampons due to their design, allowing for more airflow and wicking away any moisture. Pad users, in their minds, are . Some girls find that a slender size, applicator-style tampon is easier to use when they first start their periods. They cost less than some other reusable period products. The first modern tampons, similar to those we use today, were invented in 1929 by a physician named Dr. Earle Haas. Tampons expand as they absorb fluid, pushing against the vaginal canal, and this can actually contribute to cramp pain, said Siriouthay. If youre a woman who enjoys this activity, tampons may be a better option. It can take some time for you to experiment with what products are right for you. Its not right that tampons are culturally the 'best' and often 'only' period option. "Differentiation between menstrual products is a personal choice as long as they are used as directed, either are efficacious," says Gaither. 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. Just throw one in and you're good to go for a few hours, whether you're swimming, playing sports, or sitting down to take your final exams. The best way to reduce the environmental impact is to choose reusable menstrual options, like period panties or menstrual cups. Overwhelmed by the ever-growing world of period underwear? Tampon users and pad users can get along. 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. Just dont!. This can also happen from using pads, but it is much more rare. When you insert a tampon, make sure it is inserted far enough so that the string is below the opening of the vagina. If you need help, tell a parent. Tampons are not intended to be used at any other time or . 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. Id also often hear Ive never used tampons confessions. Cramps We want to avoid vaginal infections or materials that could harm our reproductive health. Pads are rectangles of absorbent material that you stick to the inside of your underwear. Bacterial vaginosis is a kind of vaginal inflammation that happens when bacteria found naturally in your vagina overgrow. By: Author Olin Wade (Remodel or Move Stuff). Pad and tampons might seem like two different species, but both are equally bad when it comes to their affect on mother nature. Thanks for signing up. Tampons are cylindrical vagina inserts made out of cotton, rayon, or a mix of both materials. 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. Free bleeding is having your period without wearing tampons, pads, or any other fluid barriers. Inserting them can be uncomfortable, especially when trying a new one. 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. 11 Lack of Confidence. If mum handed you a pad that very first time, you likely kept using them. They can accommodate a light to medium flow. According to a 2017 report from Period Helper a Chinese . While tampons and pads are the most popular menstrual products, they are far from the only ones. However, depending on their absorbency level, some . (2017). Can a tampon get lost inside my body? If tampon is left in too long, it gives germs a chance to grow and cause infection. Pads, meanwhile, are not associated with TSS. Its users choice, said Siriouthay. Sometimes, pads are called sanitary pads or sanitary napkins. It also helps to first try a tampon on a heavier flow day, so that the tampon slips in easier. 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. Tampons, in their minds, are sleek, sophisticated feminine hygiene products made for modern women who have lots of sex. (Tampons admittedly have a minor advantage there.). Also, no matter how thin your pad is, it may be visible under tight or minimal clothing., Pros. Another possibility could be that the tampon isnt inserted correctly. Together, we can build a world where people aren't defined by what hygiene product they have between their legs. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); By clicking 'Sign Up' you agree to receive marketing emails from PUBLIC GOODS. These absorbent panties can hold as much as a couple of pads or tampons worth of blood, depending which ones you buy. Many female swimmers will also take ibuprofen or a similar anti-inflammatory medication to help manage pain and discomfort caused by the period. The tampon is put inside the vagina and absorbs the blood before it comes out. They can shift out of place and wrinkle up in the center when youre moving. And they challenge our cultures emphasis on unsustainable, single-use products. Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Smoking Pot Every Day Linked to Heart Risks, Artificial Sweetener Linked to Heart Risks, FDA Authorizes First At-Home Test for COVID and Flu, New Book: Take Control of Your Heart Disease Risk, MINOCA: The Heart Attack You Didnt See Coming, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Dont ever leave a tampon in for longer especially all day or all night. You insert it into your vagina with an applicator, or if it's a non-applicator tampon, you can just use your fingers. Cup users also had similar or even lower levels of menstrual blood leakage than those who used tampons and pads . 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 . Jose Garcia, from Miami, Florida, posted his message on Instagram . This article was medically reviewed by Irena Cabrera, MD, OBGYN at. The hymen can separate during tampon insertion and cause discomfort. University of Melbourne provides funding as a founding partner of The Conversation AU. Pad users, in their minds, are blind to social norms and addicted to the pleasures of the napkin, a disposable mattress for the vagina. 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. Sit on the toilet. That, by eschewing the more discreet option, renders them less feminist, less empowered, less hip. That's almost double the amount of maxi pads bought in comparison to tampons. Here are some tips and tricks to help you find the answer to "Wordle" #623. ", Mayo Clinic: "Bacterial vaginosis," "Toxic shock syndrome," "Yeast infection (vaginal). 1995-2023. Pads and tampons are two of the most common and effective ways to manage period blood. 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. Again, theres nothing to hide here, but you also dont want to feel self-conscious all day. Many girls wonder: how do you put them in? We take your words seriously. 'Cause you're worth it, and you deserve it. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com. Lastly, pads are non-absorbent, meaning that your natural fluids will not be trapped nor will any other unpleasant odors be retained. We never have to repeat those early teenage memories of being too ashamed of our menstruation to spend a day at the pool. Send us your idea for a post and if we publish it, youll get $100 cash. Pads can also have "wings." Heres what you need to know about how to insert them, clean them, and more. Early tampon commercial starring Courtney Cox. You should not use pads with fragrances as they're unnecessary and can irritate your vagina. Other tampons can be put in using your fingers. The answer could be a mix of the two. A fellow Mashable employee who genuinely asked to be called "Padable" shared this experience with me: "I havent been shamed a lot for using pads, but I also dont bring it up a lot because I always felt it was weird. Tampons should typically be used for no longer than 8 hours, and sometimes an hour or two less than that depending on your flow. ", U.S. Food & Drug Administration: "The Facts on Tamponsand How to Use Them Safely.". They can stain if you dont rinse them right away. They can feel bulkier, especially as they absorb blood, and depending on the pad and clothes youre wearing, can be apparent.. They believe those who choose pads are weak, anachronistic, regressive. Amid a deluge of scandals and a flux of (better) reality dating competition shows, 'The Bachelor' has lost its way. They are confident that their hygiene product is the superior one. Do tampons really make cramps worse? Luckily, that can't happen. Changing pads regularly also helps to control smells. They must be thoroughly cleaned and dried before storing after your cycle. 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. Free bleeding can be cause for concern, especially if you are going out into the public. Your choice of sanitary products actually has an effect on your menstrual cramps. These bacteria can enter the body through the vagina and cause illnesses.. This makes them great for heavier days and overnight use, as well as saving time and money on the need for frequent change. Do guys prefer pads or tampons; irish word for lion; scary growling sounds; jsm bad cable . An extension of this are vaguer tampons-make-you-sick fears. You can expect to pay around $0.13 to $0.20 per tampon for a plastic applicator. Tampons are associated with an increased risk of a rare condition called toxic shock syndrome. 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). ", Sure, #NotAllTamponUsers discriminate. Yet for all the clamor, pad users are actually in the silent statistical majority. Tampons also come in different sizes meant for both heavy and light blood flows. A yeast infection is a fungal infection that can cause itching, burning, redness in your vagina. They were artificially . It took Siriouthay some time to figure out a menstrual care system that worked for her. 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. I always carry about 3-5 on me.. Instead of segregating ourselves into pad and tampons camps, or even other hygiene products like diva cups and Thinx, we can build a common cultural conversation around the issues that really matter: Ruined underwear, painful cramps, or accidentally bleeding all over your office chair while you're at work. 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. 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. 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).