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Tampons Vs. Pads: Pros, Cons, and Which Is Better for You - Insider The Best Period Underwear, Cups, Pads, and Products (2023) - WIRED Senior Lecturer, The University of Melbourne. 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. Others find menstrual pads less comfortable. 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. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Heres our process. Specially designed for heavy flow days, these pads feature special FlexFoam technology for a thin and flexible pad you can barely feel. (Unless it's the first day of their period, in which case, please take a chair. These bacteria can enter the body through the vagina and cause illnesses.. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Most tampons are generally the same length. If the tampon is not inserted far enough, it will not be able to grab onto the blood that is flowing. 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). This pressure can cause your body to naturally reduce the flow of blood from your uterus. Dried blood is potentially infectious. Tampons are inserted into the body and expand to hold the menstrual blood. 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. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Choosing the right menstrual product can be particularly challenging for people with heavy flows. Then, if today is the day, you'll be ready! Wings are extra material on the sides of the pad that you can fold over the edges of your underwear to keep the pad in place and to prevent blood from spilling onto your underwear and clothing. In order to be effective, however, it is important to select the right size and absorbency for your flow and to change the tampon regularly (at least every four to eight hours). On this occasion, however, a happy consequence of Yuanhuis comments is that she has shed light on options. 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. Tampons are compact and easy to transport especially if you go without the applicator, said Siriouthay. 14 Tampon Size FAQ: Comparison Chart, Types, Fit, Ease of - Healthline 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. ", Mayo Clinic: "Bacterial vaginosis," "Toxic shock syndrome," "Yeast infection (vaginal). Any surfaces coming into contact with blood need to be properly disinfected. But they still can't get lost in your body. 14 Men Share What It's Like to Buy Sanitary Pads and Why - VagaBomb 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. That, by eschewing the more discreet option, renders them less feminist, less empowered, less hip. Why we prefer sanitary pads to tampons - Nigerian women Some users find menstrual pads more comfortable because they prefer not to insert a product into their vaginas. Why men should buy tampons - BBC News 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. Seemingly, some women are convinced theyve committed a kind of anachronistic, feminine hygiene sin for picking the pad. We avoid using tertiary references. 'Cause you're worth it, and you deserve it. And for women with a particularly heavy flow, tampons are oftentimes perceived as less reliable. VanLeeuwen C, et al. Tampons are currently the most popular menstrual product in the US about 70% of women use them. A yeast infection is a fungal infection that can cause itching, burning, redness in your vagina. They believe those who choose pads are weak, anachronistic, regressive. See you at your inbox! Some tampons dont have applicators, and menstruators simply push these into their vaginas using their fingers. ", OB-GYN University of Colorado: "How To Insert A Tampon. There was a long period of time in my life where I all wanted to do was bleed out of my front hole, and catch it with a napkin. Manufacturers made changes to these products in the 1980s, and at least one brand of super-absorbent tampons was taken off the market. An extension of this are vaguer tampons-make-you-sick fears. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. They believe those who choose pads are weak, anachronistic, regressive. You can choose tampons made of non-plastic materials, like 100% organic cotton, and pads made of quickly regenerating materials like bamboo. Try out different options to find what works best. greenhithe village. Times have changed. Pads offer a better option for those with heavier flow days, which may require changing more frequently than tampons. Just dont!. I didn't die. Like pads, tampons come in different sizes for heavier and lighter periods. Bacterial vaginosis is a kind of vaginal inflammation that happens when bacteria found naturally in your vagina overgrow. Ultimately, the decision of which product is more healthy comes down to personal preference. 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. While most people who menstruate have had that moment of awkwardness, we dont have to miss our favorite activities for a week every month if we dont want to. Yes, tampons can stop period flow. And I used to hate 'that time of the month'. Free bleeding can be cause for concern, especially if you are going out into the public. Some girls find that a slender size, applicator-style tampon is easier to use when they first start their periods. 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 . The biggest downside to wearing tampons is the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TTS). An applicator with a rounded top can be especially helpful for beginners. A period so heavy that it prevents you from doing everyday activities isnt, A menstrual period is vaginal bleeding that occurs at the end of the monthly menstrual cycle. How do I use tampons, pads, period underwear, and menstrual cups? Since theyre worn on the underwear, pads are known to shift around, and you can bleed on your clothes and undies, said Siriouthay. Wear a pad and you can be (relatively) assured that you won't ruin a whole set of underwear. In contrast, Pads catch the blood outside the vagina, so theres no added discomfort from the pad itself.. Mean Girls: you havent lost your virginity if you use a tampon. Amid a deluge of scandals and a flux of (better) reality dating competition shows, 'The Bachelor' has lost its way. 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. It's possible to forget you have a tampon in and insert another one. Toxic shock syndrome is a life-threatening condition that happens from certain bacterial infections. Wash your hands before and after using a tampon. That depends. Do tampons really make cramps worse? Despite asbestos not being an ingredient in any tampons wed buy in countries such as Australia or the US, such myths wont die. They can be worn for up to 12 hours at a time. 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. This stops the blood from spilling and leaking. Those wretched, bulky layers of plastic that ended up in my underwear every month made the whole process very uncomfortable. When deciding whether to use pads or tampons, it's really up to you. Do guys prefer pads or tampons - tuep.luistreeservices.us ", TeensHealth from Nemours: "Toxic Shock Syndrome. She loves small terrible dogs and responsible driving. How Often Should You Condition Your Hair? 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. Thats something Siriouthay, who has menorrhagia, knows firsthand. The FDA also advises that tampons be left in your body for a maximum of 8 hours. The risk of toxic shock syndrome is higher with tampons. It can take some time for you to experiment with what products are right for you. 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. Then, wrap it in toilet paper, and throw it in the trash. How Many Women Don't Use Tampons? | FiveThirtyEight ", Livestrong: "How to Swim During Your Period With Pads. We've rounded up popular options based on a range of needs, whether you're looking for a. You may need to test a few different sizes and experiment before picking the tampon thats right for you.. For far too long, people who use menstrual pads have been doubly stigmatized: first for their periods, and second, for their feminine hygiene product of choice. Firstly, pads are generally more comfortable to wear than tampons due to their design, allowing for more airflow and wicking away any moisture. Also, no matter how thin your pad is, it may be visible under tight or minimal clothing., Pros. These are not the same sponges you wash your dishes or tub with! You can reduce your risk of irritation by changing menstrual pads frequently, and choosing pads made from non-plastic materials. If youre just starting out, you may have to try a few sizes to see which one fits you the best. 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. There could be a few reasons why your tampon is not absorbing blood. The cervix which is a tissue seen at the opening at the top of the vagina is too tiny for your tampon to pass through. If you do this, you increase your chances of getting a serious medical condition called toxic shock syndrome (TSS). 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. This can cause gray, white, or green discharge, a fishy-smelling odor, itching, and burning during urination. Many people with vaginas have been brought up to experience shame around our menstruation. But a small, angry, and vocal minority of tampon users outshout everyone else. 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. ", Sure, #NotAllTamponUsers discriminate. In this article, well break down everything you need to know about the differences between pads and tampons. When you try one for the first time, wash your hands well, follow the directions carefully, and be sure to relax. Pros. They offer greater freedom to exercise, swim, and play sports than pads. You may have a thick, white discharge that looks like cottage cheese. 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. Wash your hands before and after using a tampon. Does pulling out a tampon make you feel like you're dragging out a placenta? Moreover, many people find pads to be more cost effective than tampons since they generally need to be replaced less frequently. When you insert a tampon, make sure it is inserted far enough so that the string is below the opening of the vagina. "Differentiation between menstrual products is a personal choice as long as they are used as directed, either are efficacious," says Gaither. Free bleeding is simply the practice of not using any kind of period protection, such as tampons or pads, to absorb menstrual blood. Thats a lot of pros in the cups favor, but its not all rainbows and unicorns. Other . If youre just starting out, you might find it easier to use an applicator which is a plastic or cardboard tube that helps you guide the tampon into your vagina., Tampons usually have a string attached to one end. However, some users can experience skin irritation from menstrual pad use, especially in hot, moist weather conditions. Its not right that tampons are culturally the 'best' and often 'only' period option. ), hurting the environment (definitely true), and being old virgins (totally accurate, but that had nothing to do with the tampons). 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. They are designed to stick on to your underwear and come in different sizes for heavy and light periods. But nearly a century into commercial tampon availability in the West, where does our pad preference come from? 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. They come in lots of options to accommodate changes in your flow and activities. It took Siriouthay some time to figure out a menstrual care system that worked for her. Doing so effectively can only be done with quality information. Intrauterine devices (IUDs) can cause side effects. Pads are rectangles of absorbent material that you stick to the inside of your underwear. Follow her on Twitter @wear_a_helmet. If youre not comfortable inserting something into your vagina, thats totally okayyou can choose to use pads instead. Additionally, pads do not require any application nor do they pose any risk of irritation or injury associated with insertion. 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. If a person is scared or apprehensive about putting a tampon in, this can can make it difficult, as the body responds to stress by tightening the pelvic muscles and constricting the vagina. Its a rare but life-threatening complication of certain types of bacterial infections. 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. Its important to note that not all cups are reusable, so be sure to read the label if you prefer a reusable cup. Jose Garcia, from Miami, Florida, posted his message on Instagram . Tampons, Pads, and Other Period Supplies - KidsHealth Many period products contain plastics and harmful chemicals. We take your words seriously. 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. Tampons are much less bulky and less likely to move, so you can feel confident while you're out and about! If the tampon isnt taken out and changed regularly enough, then the tampon can get saturated, leaving it unable to absorb anymore. Washable Pads. You should still remember to change the pads regularly., Cons. Toxic shock syndrome is a rare infection that can happen to girls who use tampons. In high school people didnt talk about periods much, but when they did it was always about tampons. How often should I change my tampon? Tampons are associated with an increased risk of a rare condition called toxic shock syndrome. 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. Each of these options is reusable, meaning they have less of an environmental impact than disposable pads and tampons. People believe that gender equality is improving, but the rest of the data tells a different story. Yuanhuis story stood out for me not because of the cramps, but for the swimming-while-bleeding possibility. When it comes to comparing tampons and pads, both are generally seen as safe and healthy options for managing menstrual flow. tampon loyalists will ask. Its also possible that you could be using the same tampon for too long. 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. When selecting a tampon, its important to choose one that is suitable for your individual needs. They're also great if your new to the world of menstruation or have a hard time wearing tampons. 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. Pads, meanwhile, are not associated with TSS. A small minority reject the binary and use both tampons and maxi-pad, or even diva cups and period underwear, alternating based on the flow of their period or how sexy they're feeling that day. However, depending on their absorbency level, some . Additionally, it is much easier to use a pad versus a tampon, especially when it comes to disposal of the product. 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. Pads are often the go-to choice for first-time period users, as they are more visible, larger, and easier to use than tampons. If your period is heavy, you can change your pad more often. Tampons are a great option for women who swim or do other athletic activities. Pads are much more environmentally . Another potential explanation is that the tampon may be blocking the flow of blood from your uterus, disrupting the menstrual cycle. The biggest risk is viruses, such as hepatitis, which can be transmitted through dried blood for several days. If you menstruate but dont identify as female, this can cause some pretty unpleasant feelings of dysphoria and general discomfort. Two-Thirds of Poor U.S. Women Can't Afford Menstrual Pads, Tampons Yet for all the clamor, pad users are actually in the silent statistical majority. Tampons were always uncomfortable. Theyre also less visible under clothing. All rights reserved. Here are pros and cons of menstrual cups. Tampons should typically be used for no longer than 8 hours, and sometimes an hour or two less than that depending on your flow. Sea sponge tampons are small sponges that are inserted into the vagina like a tampon. Theyre also great if your new to the world of menstruation or have a hard time wearing tampons. Theres a lot of culture-specific stigmatizations around periods, said Siriouthay. A tampon is made of absorbent material similar to a pad. Overwhelmed by the ever-growing world of period underwear? Menstrual cups are flexible devices made from silicone or rubber that are inserted into the vagina, with the aim of collecting menstrual blood. They are confident that their hygiene product is the superior one. The tampon is put inside the vagina and absorbs the blood before it comes out. Their two-part design makes them less convenient for changing on the fly. We want to avoid vaginal infections or materials that could harm our reproductive health. Where to Buy Tampons Online Right Now, Amid the Shortage - SELF (Tampons admittedly have a minor advantage there.). We were accused of being "too afraid" to use tampons (hello, toxic shock syndrome! The Nemours Foundation. DOI: Period products: Information about tampons, pads, and more. How do you know which one is right for you? You should change your pad every 3 to 4 hours even if youre not having heavy periods. Pads are rectangles of absorbent materials that stick to the inside of your underwear. It's no different than getting her cold medicine and soup when she . Ask your best friend if she has a free pad and watch her otherwise very kind jaw drop to the floor. The tampons vs. pads debate has been around for what feels like forever. Much like well-known drugstore brands, direct-to-consumer tampon brands offer light- and ultra-absorbency options in addition to regular tampons. Here's what the different period blood colors mean and when to see your doctor. I had enough reasons to hate them. Do whatever it takes to make you happy and the people around you. Maxi pads, like tampons, are made of absorbent materials that soak up menstrual blood. Some tampons have applicators, which are plastic or cardboard tubes that help put the tampon in place. Why do I prefer pads over tampons? - remodelormove.com Tampons vs. Pads: The Pros and Cons - Seventeen 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. They are comfortable and even recommended for women who engage in exercises like running, dancing, swimming, jogging, etc. A place where Ani DiFrancos Blood in the Boardroom plays on a ceaseless loop. Of all the props, Raccacoonie made a mint. Pad users, in their minds, are .