Changing pads many times in a day is easier than tampons. Others find menstrual pads less comfortable. 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.. Jose Garcia, from Miami, Florida, posted his message on Instagram . For those watching in her motherland of China, Yuanhuis story was one of possibilities. 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. Hemp Oil For Dogs: Benefits, Safety Tips, Dosage and More, My Top 11 Favorite Movies About Wellness and Sustainability. A feeling of extreme weakness or dizziness, Always follow the directions on the label even if youve used tampons before.. They offer greater freedom to exercise, swim, and play sports than pads. Pads and tampons are two of the most common and effective ways to manage period 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.". This can cause gray, white, or green discharge, a fishy-smelling odor, itching, and burning during urination. People believe that gender equality is improving, but the rest of the data tells a different story. 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. They have a big environmental impact, with, They can sometimes irritate and dry out your vagina, making it, need something you can throw in your pocket. We break down why they don't and offer tips for soothing cramps regardless of what's causing them. Many girls wonder: how do you put them in? Menstrual pads, by contrast, are made for frumpy celibates who are too attached to their moms, hate the environment, and wear Costco branded underwear they bought on sale on Labor Day. 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. Unlike tampons, pad users wear them outside of their vaginas, usually using adhesive to stick them to underwear. Free bleeding can be cause for concern, especially if you are going out into the public. Relax and you'll be able to find it. If you use tampons and get any of these symptoms, take out the tampon and tell an adult immediately. Get medical help immediately if youre wearing a tampon and are experiencing any signs of toxic shock syndrome. If youre comfortable using tampons, but not inserting them with your fingers, you may want to choose tampons with applicators. Menstrual cups are flexible devices made from silicone or rubber that are inserted into the vagina, with the aim of collecting menstrual blood. I usually wear pads, just rather have the . A tampon is made of absorbent material similar to a pad. 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. Ultimately, talk to your GP to find the best and safest product for you. The period game is about more than tampons vs. pads. Many girls switch back and forth: Sometimes they use tampons and sometimes they use pads, depending on the situation, where they're going to be, and their menstrual flow. Try out different options to find what works best. 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. Part of the reason it took so long for these alternatives to finally catch on, said Siriouthay, is the cultural stigma around menstruation. Pads are much more environmentally . (2018). (Tampons admittedly have a minor advantage there.). 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. Tampons and pads both offer effective protection against menstrual flow, and which you choose depends largely on your own personal preference and lifestyle. Your email address will not be published. Being reusable means you save a lot of money. You need to fish them out with your fingers, which can be quite messy. Fast facts: Nine things you didn't know about menstruation. If the tampon isnt taken out and changed regularly enough, then the tampon can get saturated, leaving it unable to absorb anymore. Pads can't be worn while you're swimming or taking a bath, while tampons are an option. 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. Tampons, in their minds, are sleek, sophisticated feminine hygiene products made for modern women who have lots of sex. "Differentiation between menstrual products is a personal choice as long as they are used as directed, either are efficacious," says Gaither. But what is better: tampons vs pads? With only 2% of the population using tampons, she provided information about options. This means that your blood and other menstrual fluids will flow freely, just as they would without any protection. 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. Like pads, tampons come in different sizes for heavier and lighter periods. There can also be varying levels of vaginal dryness and tightness which can impact the ease in which a tampon can be inserted. 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. How often should I change my pad? 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. Tell the person you're dating that you use pads and watch their hopefully attractive face twist in revulsion. She loves small terrible dogs and responsible driving. You can squat, put one leg up, or sit on the toilet with your knees apart. Pads can also have "wings." Here are some tips and tricks to help you find the answer to "Wordle" #623. From Super Light (half to a full tampon), Moderate-Heavy (2-3 tampons), to Maxi 24 hours (10 tampons), and levels in between, you can find exactly what you need for every day of your period. Its important to note that not all cups are reusable, so be sure to read the label if you prefer a reusable cup. These little cotton cylindrical pads that fit inside your vagina are currently the most popular menstrual product. We may earn commission from the links on this page. This makes them great for heavier days and overnight use, as well as saving time and money on the need for frequent change. You should still remember to change the pads regularly., Cons. There are two types of tampons: disposable and reusable. Nothing could be more personal, more intimate, than how women manage their periods. Note: All information on KidsHealth is for educational purposes only. Many period products contain plastics and harmful chemicals. She also sent a broader message that elite sport and menstruation can coexist. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); Your email address will not be published. 1995-2023. Use the lowest absorbency tampon possible. Some women prefer menstrual cups because they are a tampon alternative that can be safely worn up to 12 hours. Your vagina is self-cleaning and doesn't need any form of soap, chemical, or perfume. Steps for removing tampons: 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. When you change your pads regularly, you stop harmful germs called bacteria from growing in them. Their two-part design makes them less convenient for changing on the fly. Here are pros and cons of menstrual cups. 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. Again, regular changing usually can manage any odor concerns. Inserting them can be uncomfortable, especially when trying a new one. Theyre reusable, so theyre good for your wallet and the planet in the long run. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Overwhelmed by the ever-growing world of period underwear? Here are some things to consider when choosing between the two most common products: tampons vs pads. That depends. When you start having your period, you can use a pad or tampon to soak up the menstrual blood. Most don't. Outside of Pete Evans-style medical information, a range of cultural and social reasons continue to dissuade tampon use. Its impossible for you to lose your tampon inside your body. 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. Id also often hear Ive never used tampons confessions. Tampons are a great option for women who swim or do other athletic activities. ), hurting the environment (definitely true), and being old virgins (totally accurate, but that had nothing to do with the tampons). Sometimes, pads are called sanitary pads or sanitary napkins. Your Privacy Choices: Opt Out of Sale/Targeted Ads. We've listed out some of the pros and cons of each product to help you decide for yourself. That's just my thoughts but I have no idea why as I don't do it myself. Solving Problems With Login To iTunes Account As Well As Your iTunes Sign In. Some girls find that a slender size, applicator-style tampon is easier to use when they first start their periods. Discovery alleges that Paramount undercut their $500 million deal. See you at your inbox! ", Mayo Clinic: "Bacterial vaginosis," "Toxic shock syndrome," "Yeast infection (vaginal). 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. 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. 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. from Mashable that may sometimes include advertisements or sponsored content. Some tampons dont have applicators, and menstruators simply push these into their vaginas using their fingers. To take the tampon out, pull gently on the string attached to the end of it. 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. With proper care and cleaning, a menstrual cup can last up to 10 years, making them a great economical choice. Some tampons have tampon applicators, thin plastic applicators or cardboard tubes that help users insert the tampons. You can choose tampons made of non-plastic materials, like 100% organic cotton, and pads made of quickly regenerating materials like bamboo. If you prefer pads to tampons or aren't yet ready to try a menstrual cup, washable pads are another alternative. A yeast infection is a fungal infection that can cause itching, burning, redness in your vagina. Enter your email for 25% off your first order. 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. Given their way, this sisterhood might even deify Chinese Olympic bronze medallist Fu Yuanhui. 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. Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, Everything You Need to Know About Using Menstrual Cups. Scented pads and tampons can actually mess with your vagina's natural pH and cause problems including bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. And for women with a particularly heavy flow, tampons are oftentimes perceived as less reliable. 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. Last medically reviewed on September 11, 2019. 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. Since theyre worn on the underwear, pads are known to shift around, and you can bleed on your clothes and undies, said Siriouthay. Wash your hands and get into a comfortable position. Lastly, pads are non-absorbent, meaning that your natural fluids will not be trapped nor will any other unpleasant odors be retained. And we dont have to be embarrassed or ashamed of not wanting to do an activity because of our menstruation or menstrual cramps, either. Don't flush it in the toilet even tampons that say they're flushable can still cause problems in some toilets. It served as a quiet tale of tampon use. They arent very discreet thanks to the very obvious sound of pulling them off your underwear. Chris, 35. The answer could be a mix of the two. And 70 per cent of women said they were comfortable with continuing to use the cups. They're also great if your new to the world of menstruation or have a hard time wearing tampons. You have to wash them, which can be messy, especially when youre out and about. ", OB-GYN University of Colorado: "How To Insert A Tampon. 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. Some tips to remember for safe use tampons include: There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to menstrual care products. Then try a pad. Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome include:. 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. A place where period activism is out, is proud. When you try one for the first time, wash your hands well, follow the directions carefully, and be sure to relax. Yes, pads usually hold more blood than tampons. Seventeen picks products that we think you'll love the most. Let's start by explaining what each one is. How Often Should You Condition Your Hair? Pad and tampons might seem like two different species, but both are equally bad when it comes to their affect on mother nature. Finding the right size and type for your flow takes some trial and error (i.e., there will be accidents). Their size makes them small enough to fit in a tiny pocket or in the palm of your hand, so theyre convenient and discreet (not that menstruation is anything to be ashamed of). Consider your comfort, budget, convenience, and any other variables that matter to you when choosing your products. You can expect to pay around $0.13 to $0.20 per tampon for a plastic applicator. Cramps If you have a lighter flow, you may have more flexibility in your choice of product. It also offers up to 10-hours of leak-free protection to . Intrauterine devices (IUDs) can cause side effects. People with heavy periods and anyone who's ever woken up to a mess swears by them. Or maybe it's because tampons are sleek and sexy, built like supermodels, and pads are broad-shouldered, aka, "body positive.". If the tampon is not inserted far enough, it will not be able to grab onto the blood that is flowing. 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. Ross A, et al. Pads can be thought of as a safer option than tampons, as pads do not come with the same risk of TSS. The time has come to reclaim the menstrual pad. Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. 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. You dont need to be a tampon user to see the obvious pros of tampons. Tampons also are easy to store in a purse or pocket. tampon loyalists will ask. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Heres our process. Some of us use exclusively one kind of product; many of us use a mix. Tampons are a great option for women who swim or do other athletic activities. VanLeeuwen C, et al. Ranging from personal preference to medical concerns. Carolyn Twersky is an associate editor for Seventeen covering celebrities, entertainment, politics, trends, and health.