Tampons can be a safe, comfortable and effective way to manage your menstrual flow. To make sure they work best, you'll need to choose the size that suits you best. In addition to selecting the right degree of absorption, you can choose a tampon based on other characteristics, such as the type of applicator, models suitable for sports or scented models. You can also try different brands to find the one that best suits your needs.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Choosing the Right Degree of Absorbency
Step 1. Find out about the options available
The size of tampons varies depending on how much liquid they are able to absorb. You can choose the degree of absorbency that best suits your needs based on the abundance of your flow. The most common sizes of tampons are (from smallest to largest):
- Regular
- Super
- Super Plus
- Some brands may also offer the Junior / Slim category (pads smaller than Regular) and / or Ultra (larger than Super Plus).
Step 2. Always choose a lower absorbency to avoid TSS
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a rare but very serious condition that can result from the use of higher absorption tampons. To prevent this syndrome, you should always use the lowest absorption level to meet your needs. Start with Regular (or Junior / Slim) tampons and, if necessary, move on to those with higher absorbency later.
- Symptoms of TSS include: high fever, low blood pressure, vomiting or diarrhea, and a rash that resembles a sunburn.
- You will understand that the absorbency level is right if the tampon does not become saturated within 4-6 hours. If, on the other hand, you need to change it more often than every 4 hours or if the containment capacity is less, you should try one with a higher degree of absorbency.
Step 3. Use different absorbencies on different days
For most women, the flow is most abundant during the first three days of their period. Then it begins to gradually decrease (from the third to the seventh day of menstruation or even beyond). You can use higher absorption tampons on heavy flow days and switch to lower absorbency as your cycle begins to decrease.
- Look for tampons sold in assorted packs, meaning they have varying degrees of absorbency in the same package.
- During heavy flow days, you can also use a panty liner or tampon for safety.
Step 4. Change your tampon every 4-6 hours
To prevent infections (such as TSS), it is important to change the tampon every 4-6 hours, even if it is not completely saturated.
- If you're just starting out using tampons, try setting reminders to remind yourself to change the tampon.
- Remember to use a tampon with a lower absorbency than you would need.
Part 2 of 2: Choose from Additional Features
Step 1. Start with thin pads
If you are just starting out with tampons or if you find the Regular ones too bulky, try using Junior, Slim or Slim fit tampons. These are generally easier to insert and may be more comfortable for some women.
- Junior / Slim pads may not be available in stores with limited selections, such as small supermarkets or neighborhood convenience stores.
- You can easily find these products at pharmacies, health care or any other store that has a large selection of feminine hygiene products.
Step 2. Choose an applicator
An important factor in choosing the right tampon is choosing the right applicator. If you are just starting to use tampons, a plastic applicator may be the best choice, as it allows you to insert the tampon more easily. But all other types of applicators also have their own advantages.
- Plastic applicator: For most women, tampons with plastic applicators are the easiest to use;
- Extendable Applicator: These are generally made of plastic and are designed to be more discreet. To use them, you must first pull the applicator down to extend it.
- Cardboard applicator: sanitary pads with cardboard applicator are the cheapest and also the ones you find most easily, even in vending machines.
- Internal tampon without applicator: this type of tampon is inserted using a finger. Some women find them easier to use. They are also discreet and produce less waste.
Step 3. Use tampons suitable for physical activities
If you work out or play sports, you may want to try using tampons that are suitable for an active lifestyle. These pads are designed to be flexible to follow your movements and prevent unwanted spillage.
While swimming or playing sports, you can use any type of tampon. Just find the tampon with the most suitable size and style
Step 4. Try different brands of sanitary pads
The various brands of tampons differ slightly from each other and each of them offers a wide range of products to choose from. Specific shapes and fits vary from brand to brand and product to product. To find the tampon that best suits your needs, you can try different types and brands. The most common brands include:
- Tampax
- Playtex
- Joydivision
- O. B. (without applicator)
- Organyc (with organic cotton)
Step 5. Avoid scented tampons
You can choose between scented and unscented tampons. Avoid using scented ones! The chemical additives used can cause irritation. If you change your tampon every 4-6 hours, you shouldn't notice any unpleasant odors.
If you want to avoid any kind of additives or chemicals, you can choose to use tampons with organic cotton
Advice
- If you are going to use a tampon for the first time, wait until your period is heavy. This will make it easier to insert the tampon.
- Pads should be comfortable. If the one you're using makes you feel uncomfortable or doesn't seem to fit you, try another brand, a different absorbency level, or a different style.
