Talk to your doctor or another healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns. ", Sure, #NotAllTamponUsers discriminate. mess. You can squat, put one leg up, or sit on the toilet with your knees apart. Again, regular changing usually can manage any odor concerns. Toxic shock syndrome is a life-threatening condition that happens from certain bacterial infections. How Often Should You Condition Your Hair? 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? Seventeen picks products that we think you'll love the most. No, it is not weird to use pads instead of tampons. 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. Finding the right size and type for your flow takes some trial and error (i.e., there will be accidents). They cost less than some other reusable period products. 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. Exploring menstrual practices and potential acceptability of reusable menstrual underwear among a Middle Eastern population living in a refugee setting. Aside from the fact that picturing a hymen as a kind of football banner needing to be ploughed through is indicative of truly horrendous sex education, such an image perpetuates the harmful myth that virginity is all about an intact membrane. Overall . Where to Buy Tampons Online Right Now, Amid the Shortage - SELF Pad users, in their minds, are . They arent very discreet thanks to the very obvious sound of pulling them off your underwear. When you change your pads regularly, you stop harmful germs called bacteria from growing in them. The amount and duration of your period is determined by a variety of factors and usually does not change with free bleeding. You should still remember to change the pads regularly., Cons. They can stain if you dont rinse them right away. Does pulling out a tampon make you feel like you're dragging out a placenta? They call menstrual pads wasteful even though used tampon applicators are more popular than grains of sand on a Brooklyn beach. There are several different factors that go into every menstruators product choice. And some girls with heavy periods use tampons together with pads or pantiliners for added protection against leakage. Id also often hear Ive never used tampons confessions. Additionally, using menstrual cups, period underwear, and sponges to collect menstrual fluid is different from free bleeding, as these items are still effectively containing your period. This stops the blood from spilling and leaking. Yuanhuis story stood out for me not because of the cramps, but for the swimming-while-bleeding possibility. 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. When selecting a tampon, its important to choose one that is suitable for your individual needs. 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. Since theyre worn on the underwear, pads are known to shift around, and you can bleed on your clothes and undies, said Siriouthay. Heres a look at all the pros and cons of the most popular menstrual products. There are two types of tampons: disposable and reusable. Pad users, in their minds, are blind to social norms and addicted to the pleasures of the napkin, a disposable mattress for the vagina. Ultimately, it is up to the female swimmer to decide which option works best for her individual needs. Most tampons are generally the same length. Ranging from personal preference to medical concerns. Its not right that tampons are culturally the 'best' and often 'only' period option. Solving Problems With Login To iTunes Account As Well As Your iTunes Sign In. Vagina Quiz: What Do You Know About Down Below? For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. 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 vs. Pads: The Pros and Cons - Seventeen If you have a pet at home, make sure you throw pads away in a trash can that your pet can't get into. advise menstruators to choose unscented tampons. Because you can see it, it's also easy to remember when you have to change it. . But nearly a century into commercial tampon availability in the West, where does our pad preference come from? An extension of this are vaguer tampons-make-you-sick fears. Additionally, it is much easier to use a pad versus a tampon, especially when it comes to disposal of the product. Sit on the toilet. Tampons vs. Pads: Which Option is Better for You? | The Pill Club - Favor To take the tampon out, pull gently on the string attached to the end of it. ", TeensHealth from Nemours: "Toxic Shock Syndrome. A new study found that menstrual cups were just as good, if not better, as disposable tampons and pads at preventing leaks. Your vagina is self-cleaning and doesn't need any form of soap, chemical, or perfume. I prefer pads over tampons for a variety of reasons. Reusable products, on the other hand, challenge the out of sight, out of mind mentality of menstruation. Natural pads may be more comfortable and provide healthier options than those containing 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. No, but seriously: These guys don . 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. Period panties, menstrual underwear whatever you call them, theyre a thing. (Take it from someone whos endured the horror of watching her pad float on by while swimming with friends.). Chris, 35. Moreover, many people find pads to be more cost effective than tampons since they generally need to be replaced less frequently. Are you comfortable inserting something inside yourself, or would you rather let the blood collect into a pad? /content/kidshealth/misc/medicalcodes/kids/articles/pads-tampons. 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.. We never have to repeat those early teenage memories of being too ashamed of our menstruation to spend a day at the pool. Nonfoux L, et al. 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. 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. You can also reduce waste by choosing tampons without applicators. 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. A tampon is a small, cylindrical bundle made of cotton, rayon or a blend of cotton and rayon. Pads are rectangles of absorbent materials that stick to the inside of your underwear. 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. The upfront cost is more than regular underwear. The average menstrual cycle is between 21 and 35 days, and the amount of time you bleed each month can vary as well, usually lasting for about 37 days. If the flow is still too heavy, speaking to a doctor or gynecologist and seeking medical advice may be necessary. 3 toxic shock syndrome facts. For feminists who spend any time online, the idea of period talk being forbidden is hilarious. Some may be slightly shorter in order to be better sized for travel or on-the-go use. To use a pad, peel the adhesive strip off and press it on to your underwear. Yes, pads usually hold more blood than tampons. But between these options, and the classic tampons and pads, menstruators today have so much to choose from. Washable Pads. No, free bleeding does not make your period end faster. 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. If tampon is left in too long, it gives germs a chance to grow and cause infection. The time has come to reclaim the menstrual pad. The choice to use tampons, pads, or a combination of both is a personal one. Bacterial vaginosis is a kind of vaginal inflammation that happens when bacteria found naturally in your vagina overgrow. Have someone take you to the nearest emergency department as soon as possible. Theyre more cost-effective in the long run. Double! I was too embarrassed to say that I had my period and I hadnt yet learned to use tampons. Its also possible that you could be using the same tampon for too long. 'Cause you're worth it, and you deserve it. Id speculate most Western countries have similar figures. The hymen can separate during tampon insertion and cause discomfort. Required fields are marked *. If this happens, just remove them as soon as possible. Alternate between tampons and pads when your flow is light. 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. Theres a lot of culture-specific stigmatizations around periods, said Siriouthay. 1995-2023. 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. Only use tampons when you have your period. It can't travel to other parts of your body, like your stomach. From reducing waste to recycling and upcycling, our e-book shows simple ways to make choices you can feel good about. Tampons are compact and easy to transport especially if you go without the applicator, said Siriouthay. Most menstrual pads are made of absorbent material like cotton and super absorbent polymer. It also helps to first try a tampon on a heavier flow day, so that the tampon slips in easier. You may need to test a few different sizes and experiment before picking the tampon thats right for you.. If you prefer pads to tampons or aren't yet ready to try a menstrual cup, washable pads are another alternative. 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. For starters, most cups are reusable: just rinse and wear them again! If youre going to give free bleeding a try, stained clothing and sheets are pretty much a given. Relax and you'll be able to find it. People with heavy periods and anyone whos ever woken up to a mess swears by them. Specially designed for heavy flow days, these pads feature special FlexFoam technology for a thin and flexible pad you can barely feel. 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. You can reduce your risk of irritation by changing menstrual pads frequently, and choosing pads made from non-plastic materials. Things can get messy because you have to use your fingers to fish it out of your vagina, then dump and rinse it. Luckily, with a few simple guidelines, both pads and tampons are highly safe. 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). 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. There can also be varying levels of vaginal dryness and tightness which can impact the ease in which a tampon can be inserted. We want to avoid vaginal infections or materials that could harm our reproductive health. You can store tampons before and after use in an opaque plastic bag for privacy. Dont ever leave a tampon in for longer especially all day or all night. Everyone has their own preferences and comfort levels and not wanting to use tampons is just as valid as wanting to use them. 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. Or maybe it's because tampons are sleek and sexy, built like supermodels, and pads are broad-shouldered, aka, "body positive.". I ended up finding out on my first visit to the gynecologist that my vaginal opening is pretty small, which explained to me why tampons never felt right. Pads can come in different sizes. Firstly, pads are generally more comfortable to wear than tampons due to their design, allowing for more airflow and wicking away any moisture. You can choose tampons made of non-plastic materials, like 100% organic cotton, and pads made of quickly regenerating materials like bamboo. The Nemours Foundation. 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. Additionally, pads do not require any application nor do they pose any risk of irritation or injury associated with insertion. Ultimately, the decision of which product is more healthy comes down to personal preference. Do you ever forget about a tampon? Cons. Tampons were always uncomfortable. And they challenge our cultures emphasis on unsustainable, single-use products. Hemp Oil For Dogs: Benefits, Safety Tips, Dosage and More, My Top 11 Favorite Movies About Wellness and Sustainability. 13 Reasons Why You Should Never Wear Maxi Pads Again Here are some things to consider when choosing between the two most common products: tampons vs pads. Your email address will not be published. Many girls wonder: how do you put them in? Pads are usually made up of an absorbent material and they're designed to stick right on to your underwear. Black, Brown, Bright Red, and More: What Does Each Period Blood Color Mean? Ross A, et al. Youve got options, and at the end of the day its your period, your prerogative. "Differentiation between menstrual products is a personal choice as long as they are used as directed, either are efficacious," says Gaither. If this doesnt seem to be the issue, then its possible that you might be allergic to the materials within the tampon. You should change your tampon every 4 to 6 hours. Pads are rectangles of absorbent material that you stick to the inside of your underwear. Many users of the product are proudly tolerant or indifferent to the feminine hygiene choices of others. For those watching in her motherland of China, Yuanhuis story was one of possibilities. The Facts on Tamponsand How to Use Them Safely | FDA It is absolutely normal to not want to use tampons! You have to insert it into your vagina with your fingers or an applicator that holds the tampon inside it. Tampons, Pads or Menstrual Cups? What's Right for You? Choosing the right menstrual product can be particularly challenging for people with heavy flows. And we dont have to be embarrassed or ashamed of not wanting to do an activity because of our menstruation or menstrual cramps, either. They create less waste in landfills than disposable products. The first modern tampons, similar to those we use today, were invented in 1929 by a physician named Dr. Earle Haas. 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. Another possibility could be that the tampon isnt inserted correctly. The biggest downside to wearing tampons is the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TTS). Tell the person you're dating that you use pads and watch their hopefully attractive face twist in revulsion. Required fields are marked *. Theyre also less visible under clothing. Its impossible for you to lose your tampon inside your body. Steps for removing tampons: Should I use pads or disposable briefs for my incontinence? Choosing between tampons and pads comes down to what your preferences are. Theyre reusable and some last up to 6 months with proper care and cleaning. Yes, a flow can be too heavy for tampons. Each of these options is reusable, meaning they have less of an environmental impact than disposable pads and tampons. Any surfaces coming into contact with blood need to be properly disinfected. 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. Pads are worn in your underwear, completely outside your body. Young Men Are Learning How Menstrual Pads Work on TikTok - Glamour It used to be primarily associated with using super-absorbent tampons. Pads can be thought of as a safer option than tampons, as pads do not come with the same risk of TSS. Pad and tampons might seem like two different species, but both are equally bad when it comes to their affect on mother nature. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. I am the heavy flow queen, she said. You should not use pads with fragrances as they're unnecessary and can irritate your vagina. You have to wash them, which can be an issue if you need to change them on the go. Women are also pretty loyal to managing their periods how they always have. 1 In 10 College Students Can't Afford Pads Or Tampons. Could - Forbes Seemingly, some women are convinced theyve committed a kind of anachronistic, feminine hygiene sin for picking the pad. Lastly, there may be religious or cultural concerns that discourage or prohibit the use of tampons. Pros. Could I have it, too? 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. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. You insert it into your vagina with an applicator, or if it's a non-applicator tampon, you can just use your fingers. Overwhelmed by the ever-growing world of period underwear? If you do prefer pads or tampons, however, Siriouthay said there are a few things you can do to make your period more sustainable. Jose Garcia, from Miami, Florida, posted his message on Instagram . There could be a few reasons why your tampon is not absorbing blood. They rework our relationship to periods by creating a sort of ritual of cleaning the products, keeping them to reuse, and, in a lot of cases, putting them on display, said Siriouthay. It is important to take the time to get comfortable, to use the right size tampon for your body, to use a water-based lubricant, and to practice relaxation techniques. 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. When you start having your period, you can use a pad or tampon to soak up the menstrual blood. A new initiative called . Tampon users and pad users can get along. A pad may feel bulky to some girls. Do you use pads or tampons for the most part and which do you prefer Here are some tips and tricks to help you find the answer to 'Wordle' #622. Pads can also have "wings." (2016). Tampons are also a better choice for swimming. Consider your comfort, budget, convenience, and any other variables that matter to you when choosing your products. Tampons are easy to use, but you do need to learn how to put them in. Much like well-known drugstore brands, direct-to-consumer tampon brands offer light- and ultra-absorbency options in addition to regular tampons. Why men should buy tampons - BBC News In some places online one wonders whether anything else is ever discussed. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), however, advises against reusable tampons, as they are more likely to cause fungal, yeast, or bacterial infections. The tampons vs. pads debate has been around for what feels like forever. Tampons are not intended to be used at any other time or . They can accommodate a light to medium flow. 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. While diva cups produce minimal amounts of waste, the average woman trashes up to 250 - 300 lbs(Opens in a new tab) of "pads, applications, and tampons" over the course of their lifetime.
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