Menstrual pads are apparently an extremely confusing product for young men, according to one of the latest viral trends sweeping TikTok right now. An applicator with a rounded top can be especially helpful for beginners. Here are pros and cons of menstrual cups. .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? 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. Your vagina is self-cleaning and doesn't need any form of soap, chemical, or perfume. Impact of currently marketed tampons and menstrual cups on Staphylococcus aureus growth and toxic shock syndrome toxin 1 production in vitro. Others find menstrual pads less comfortable. It is important to remain aware of proper hygiene while swimming on your period and take steps to prevent discomfort and the spread of bacteria. You can also reduce waste by choosing tampons without applicators. Since theyre worn on the underwear, pads are known to shift around, and you can bleed on your clothes and undies, said Siriouthay. This article was medically reviewed by Irena Cabrera, MD, OBGYN at. Yet walk into your hip start-up's office bathroom or your school nurse's bathroom and (if you're lucky) you'll find a free bucket of tampons. tampon loyalists will ask. Change the pad about every 34 hours. It used to be primarily associated with using super-absorbent tampons. When you insert a tampon, make sure it is inserted far enough so that the string is below the opening of the vagina. Tampon usage also retains an ick factor. Here are some tips and tricks to help you find the answer to 'Wordle' #622. 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. How do you know which one is right for you? Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. You can choose tampons made of non-plastic materials, like 100% organic cotton, and pads made of quickly regenerating materials like bamboo. Sometimes, pads are called sanitary pads or sanitary napkins. (2019). Mean Girls: you havent lost your virginity if you use a tampon. 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. If you prefer pads to tampons or aren't yet ready to try a menstrual cup, washable pads are another alternative. I didn't turn gay or grow a vagina. If the tampon isnt taken out and changed regularly enough, then the tampon can get saturated, leaving it unable to absorb anymore. I'd speculate most Western countries have similar . (2018). Follow her on Twitter @wear_a_helmet. With only 2% of the population using tampons, she provided information about options. Do whatever it takes to make you happy and the people around you. I prefer pads over tampons for a variety of reasons. I didn't die. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. 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 . Overall . Inserting them can be uncomfortable, especially when trying a new one. Washable Pads. And for women with a particularly heavy flow, tampons are oftentimes perceived as less reliable. They are confident that their hygiene product is the superior one. 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. There are so many reasons I, and millions like me, choose the pad. But a small, angry, and vocal minority of tampon users outshout everyone else. I am the heavy flow queen, she said. 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. 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. Many women use menstrual cups as an eco-friendly alternative to tampons. Deciding which one to use doesnt have to be hard. Enter your email for 25% off your first order. Theyre more breathable than regular pads. You may have a thick, white discharge that looks like cottage cheese. It's no different than getting her cold medicine and soup when she . From reducing waste to recycling and upcycling, our e-book shows simple ways to make choices you can feel good about. 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. 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. They can shift out of place and wrinkle up in the center when youre moving. Together, we can build a world where people aren't defined by what hygiene product they have between their legs. They're also less visible under clothing. If your periods are heavy, the cup may runneth over long before the 12 hours. Mashable is a registered trademark of Ziff Davis and may not be used by third parties without express written permission. Id also often hear Ive never used tampons confessions. The risk of toxic shock syndrome is higher with tampons. That, by eschewing the more discreet option, renders them less feminist, less empowered, less hip. Specially designed for heavy flow days, these pads feature special FlexFoam technology for a thin and flexible pad you can barely feel. You cant wear them in thongs or G-strings, if thats your thing. Alternate between tampons and pads when your flow is light. ", Cosmopolitan UK: "A doctor answers all your questions about Toxic Shock Syndrome. It also helps to first try a tampon on a heavier flow day, so that the tampon slips in easier. Cumulative exposure and feminine care products. Comfort is a personal preference, but there are some factors you may want to consider when choosing between tampons vs pads. The answer could be a mix of the two. Pads can also have "wings." 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. Heather was the Web Trends reporter at Mashable NYC. Pros. Here's what the different period blood colors mean and when to see your doctor. 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 can find super-absorbent pads that are very thin so you dont have an uncomfortable feeling between your legs all the time., Even though pads can also cause toxic shock syndrome, the risk is much less compared to tampons. (2017). Overall, there is a range of factors that can explain why putting in a tampon can be difficult. Where they differ are . Many people tend to tense up, resulting in difficulty with insertion. You have to insert it into your vagina with your fingers or an applicator that holds the tampon inside it. Ross E. (2015). She also sent a broader message that elite sport and menstruation can coexist. Tampons can be more convenient for menstruators on the go. Finally, if it is difficult to locate the opening of the vaginal canal, this could also explain why insertion is difficult. You can expect to pay around $0.13 to $0.20 per tampon for a plastic applicator. Black, Brown, Bright Red, and More: What Does Each Period Blood Color Mean? A lot of Nigerian women prefer pads because they are easy to use, and they offer external protection. When selecting a tampon, its important to choose one that is suitable for your individual needs. Tampons also come in different sizes meant for both heavy and light blood flows. We were accused of being "too afraid" to use tampons (hello, toxic shock syndrome! Its for this reason that other internal, having-to-touch-the-blood methods like cups and sponges havent yet gone mainstream. Additionally, it is much easier to use a pad versus a tampon, especially when it comes to disposal of the product. And I used to hate 'that time of the month'. We break down why they don't and offer tips for soothing cramps regardless of what's causing them. DOI: Period products: Information about tampons, pads, and more. Easy to use: Pads are easier to use than tampons. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Your Privacy Choices: Opt Out of Sale/Targeted Ads. To use a pad, peel the adhesive strip off and press it on to your underwear. 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. The biggest downside to wearing tampons is the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TTS). Consider your comfort, budget, convenience, and any other variables that matter to you when choosing your products. Another possibility could be that the tampon isnt inserted correctly. Then, wrap it in toilet paper, and throw it in the trash. Heres what you need to know about how to insert them, clean them, and more. Lastly, there may be religious or cultural concerns that discourage or prohibit the use of tampons. Next up: her own show. Dried blood is potentially infectious. Investing in a waterproof mattress protector is also a good idea. Yes, tampons can stop period flow. They're also great if your new to the world of menstruation or have a hard time wearing tampons. Some tips to remember for safe use tampons include: There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to menstrual care products. 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. Pads can be thought of as a safer option than tampons, as pads do not come with the same risk of TSS. Additionally, since they are absorbent, they minimize the risk of leaking or staining clothing or other fabrics. They arent very discreet thanks to the very obvious sound of pulling them off your underwear. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), however, advises against reusable tampons, as they are more likely to cause fungal, yeast, or bacterial infections. You can squat, put one leg up, or sit on the toilet with your knees apart. But between these options, and the classic tampons and pads, menstruators today have so much to choose from. Pads are directly placed onto the underwear and are designed to catch and absorb menstrual blood. greenhithe village. Does pulling out a tampon make you feel like you're dragging out a placenta? They are also especially great for overnight use. All rights reserved. Have someone take you to the nearest emergency department as soon as possible. Menstrual cups can be worn for 4-12 hours, depending on flow and can generally hold more than a normal tampon. Many period products contain plastics and harmful chemicals. 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. Nemours Children's Health and KidsHealth are registered trademarks of The Nemours Foundation. Tampons expand as they absorb fluid, pushing against the vaginal canal, and this can actually contribute to cramp pain, said Siriouthay. Toxic shock syndrome is a life-threatening condition that happens from certain bacterial infections. May be better for heavy periods: Women and girls who have heavy periods have to change their menstrual hygiene product more often than others. Nonfoux L, et al. Scented pads and tampons can actually mess with your vagina's natural pH and cause problems including bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, Everything You Need to Know About Using Menstrual Cups. Firstly, pads are generally more comfortable to wear than tampons due to their design, allowing for more airflow and wicking away any moisture. 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. How often should I change my tampon? The first modern tampons, similar to those we use today, were invented in 1929 by a physician named Dr. Earle Haas. Pads are also called sanitary pads or sanitary napkins. (2016). Youve got options, and at the end of the day its your period, your prerogative. You can wear them as extra leak protection with pads and tampons at night or on heavy days. What was this cramp? When it comes to comparing tampons and pads, both are generally seen as safe and healthy options for managing menstrual flow. Additionally, it is much easier to use a pad versus a tampon, especially when it comes to disposal of the product. oklahoma state verbal commits . 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. Should I use pads or disposable briefs for my incontinence? In truth, virginity is a cultural category that some people use to define whether weve had sex. Changing pads often can cut down on any odor. There are several different factors that go into every menstruators product choice. Again, the decision is totally up to you and if you're still not sure which way to go, try out both and see what you like best. They are comfortable and even recommended for women who engage in exercises like running, dancing, swimming, jogging, etc. And if youre totally comfortable, you can choose applicator-free tampons, which are more compact and reduce menstrual waste. 'Cause you're worth it, and you deserve it. They can feel bulkier, especially as they absorb blood, and depending on the pad and clothes youre wearing, can be apparent.. Pros. It also offers up to 10-hours of leak-free protection to . Theyre reusable and some last up to 6 months with proper care and cleaning. If your period is heavy, you can change your pad more often. Some people find that using tampons can actually reduce cramps because using a tampon applies gentle pressure on the lower abdomen and can take the focus off the cramp. Overwhelmed by the ever-growing world of period underwear? Ultimately, the choice is up to you. Choosing between tampons and pads comes down to what your preferences are. Menstrual cups are flexible cups made of silicone or rubber that you wear inside your vagina to catch menstrual blood. They were artificially . Use the lowest absorbency tampon you can. I was at high school throughout much of the 1990s. Given their way, this sisterhood might even deify Chinese Olympic bronze medallist Fu Yuanhui. You should not use pads with fragrances as they're unnecessary and can irritate your vagina. You can also choose pads based on how light or heavy your blood flow is.. 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 . Doing so effectively can only be done with quality information. 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. But a tampon looks like a small tube. Too cheap to buy a Tempur-pedic pillow? Firstly, pads are generally more comfortable to wear than tampons due to their design, allowing for more airflow and wicking away any moisture. (n.d.). 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. If this happens, just remove them as soon as possible. Pads come in different sizes for heavier and . Each of these options is reusable, meaning they have less of an environmental impact than disposable pads and tampons. Natural pads may be more comfortable and provide healthier options than those containing chemicals. With pads, there is less of a risk for dryness, irritation, and exposure to toxic shock syndrome since the pad does not need to be inserted into your body as a tampon does. July 1, 2020. Senior Lecturer, The University of Melbourne. They come in different absorbencies to accommodate light to heavy periods. Here are some things to consider when choosing between the two most common products: tampons vs pads. 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. For example, if you are a regular swimmer, tampons will be a better option than pads when you are on your period. 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. Ultimately, the decision of which product is more healthy comes down to personal preference. They can accommodate a light to medium flow. ", TeensHealth from Nemours: "Toxic Shock Syndrome. Heavy flows and cramps can be a common experience during your periods. Outside of Pete Evans-style medical information, a range of cultural and social reasons continue to dissuade tampon use. Even though pads are thinner than ever, theyre more likely to be visible under certain types of clothing. Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome are a high fever, vomiting or diarrhea, severe muscle aches, weakness, dizziness, or a rash that looks like a sunburn. 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. If it continues to happen and youre concerned, its best to visit your doctor to rule out any more serious underlying issues. They must be thoroughly cleaned and dried before storing after your cycle. But I could never use tampons . In this article, well break down everything you need to know about the differences between pads and tampons. Carry disinfecting wipes with you in case blood gets on other surfaces. Ultimately, it is up to the female swimmer to decide which option works best for her individual needs. When you try one for the first time, wash your hands well, follow the directions carefully, and be sure to relax. Bacterial vaginosis is a kind of vaginal inflammation that happens when bacteria found naturally in your vagina overgrow. It can't travel to other parts of your body, like your stomach. Wear a pad and you can be (relatively) assured that you won't ruin a whole set of underwear. It's possible to forget you have a tampon in and insert another one. Theyre reusable, so theyre good for your wallet and the planet in the long run. 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. ", Mayo Clinic: "Bacterial vaginosis," "Toxic shock syndrome," "Yeast infection (vaginal). Give a package of sanitary napkins a try! The choice to use tampons, pads, or a combination of both is a personal one. Other tampons can be put in using your fingers. A tampon absorbs menstrual blood before it has a chance to come out of your body. Pads are rectangles of absorbent materials that stick to the inside of your underwear. A new initiative called . This can cause gray, white, or green discharge, a fishy-smelling odor, itching, and burning during urination. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. 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. Sea sponge tampons are small sponges that are inserted into the vagina like a tampon. This means that your blood and other menstrual fluids will flow freely, just as they would without any protection. You need to fish them out with your fingers, which can be quite messy. Pads offer a better option for those with heavier flow days, which may require changing more frequently than tampons. Pads are rectangles of absorbent material that you stick to the inside of your underwear. 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. mess. 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. Some tampons have applicators, which are plastic or cardboard tubes that help put the tampon in place. You insert it into your vagina with an applicator, or if it's a non-applicator tampon, you can just use your fingers. Many girls wonder: how do you put them in? Tell the person you're dating that you use pads and watch their hopefully attractive face twist in revulsion. The Nemours Foundation. She let women in China know that, yes, there are ways to swim while you have your period. The data (probably) doesn't lie. If you still struggle, you may want to visit a healthcare provider or take a class to learn more about proper insertion and to build your confidence. University of Melbourne provides funding as a founding partner of The Conversation AU. 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. Its impossible for you to lose your tampon inside your body. Your email address will not be published. That's almost double the amount of maxi pads bought in comparison to tampons. Tampons are cylindrical inserts that go inside your vagina, whereas pads are absorbent linings designed to stick to your underwear. 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. Cramps The FDA also advises that tampons be left in your body for a maximum of 8 hours. None of this is to say that menstrual pads are inherently more worthy than tampons or even, necessarily a better choice. Of all the feminist alleyways one might stumble down online, a noteworthy one is the menstrual community. 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. One possible explanation is that your body may be reacting to the increase of pressure in your uterus when the tampon is inserted. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Other . Solving Problems With Login To iTunes Account As Well As Your iTunes Sign In. A place where Ani DiFrancos Blood in the Boardroom plays on a ceaseless loop. Jose Garcia, from Miami, Florida, posted his message on Instagram . Tampons, on the other hand, are designed to be inserted into the vagina during menstruation and absorb the menstrual flow. Cardboard applicator tampons typically cost between $0.12 and $0.14 per tampon. Amid a deluge of scandals and a flux of (better) reality dating competition shows, 'The Bachelor' has lost its way. Most tampons are generally the same length. Most Americans who have their periods use pads, not tampons, or diva cups, or Thinx underwear, a heroic new underwear that lets you bleed into your pants. When you start having your period, you can use a pad or tampon to soak up the menstrual blood. Others include menstrual cups, cloth pads, menstrual disks, free bleeding, and period panties like Thinx. Free bleeding is having your period without wearing tampons, pads, or any other fluid barriers. The tampon is put inside the vagina and absorbs the blood before it comes out. Pads come in different sizes for heavier and lighter periods. Do tampons really make cramps worse? You can store tampons before and after use in an opaque plastic bag for privacy. Tampons are currently the most popular menstrual product in the US about 70% of women use them. They believe those who choose pads are weak, anachronistic, regressive. This way, the tampon can absorb your flow more effectively. Seemingly, some women are convinced theyve committed a kind of anachronistic, feminine hygiene sin for picking the pad. This stops the blood from spilling and leaking.