why do some women "pad shame/bully" women for using pads? 13 Reasons Why You Should Never Wear Maxi Pads Again May be better for heavy periods: Women and girls who have heavy periods have to change their menstrual hygiene product more often than others. If you prefer pads to tampons or aren't yet ready to try a menstrual cup, washable pads are another alternative. Pads are rectangles of absorbent material that you stick to the inside of your underwear. Wash your hands before and after using a tampon. It can't travel to other parts of your body, like your stomach. The upfront cost is more than regular underwear. More U.S. women use pads than tampons, according to a survey of 739 women conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). How do you know which one is right for you? Another advantage to tampons is that they can't be felt because they're inside the body. (Unless it's the first day of their period, in which case, please take a chair. Many girls start out using pads, but might want to use tampons when they do sports or go swimming. Theres a lot of culture-specific stigmatizations around periods, said Siriouthay. Its impossible for you to lose your tampon inside your body. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Its important to remember to do this because you can sometimes forget you are using one. With maxi pads, you can never feel 100% confident that your pad won't show or that it won't leak. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. If your periods are heavy, the cup may runneth over long before the 12 hours. Most tampons are generally the same length. Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, Everything You Need to Know About Using Menstrual Cups. It is also suggested that menstrual cups are a better alternative for reducing the risk of TSS and other infections. The best way to reduce the environmental impact is to choose reusable menstrual options, like period panties or menstrual cups. Dried blood is potentially infectious. Some tampons dont have applicators, and menstruators simply push these into their vaginas using their fingers. (Take it from someone whos endured the horror of watching her pad float on by while swimming with friends.). Ahhh, the age-old dilemma of tampons vs. pads. People believe that gender equality is improving, but the rest of the data tells a different story. Reusable products, on the other hand, challenge the out of sight, out of mind mentality of menstruation. Some tips to remember for safe use tampons include: There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to menstrual care products. However, some users can experience skin irritation from menstrual pad use, especially in hot, moist weather conditions. advise menstruators to choose unscented tampons. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Most don't. Outside of Pete Evans-style medical information, a range of cultural and social reasons continue to dissuade tampon use. Spread your knees farther apart than you usually might, so that you have maximum access and visibility while you figure this out, or you can squat and sit like a frog on the toilet seat. 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. 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. Again, regular changing usually can manage any odor concerns. The Best Period Underwear, Cups, Pads, and Products (2023) - WIRED If you try to take out the tampon and have trouble finding the string at first, don't worry. The Best Period Underwear Options for Any Situation. They are also especially great for overnight use. How do I choose the right pad for me? Others may feel more secure and less exposed with pads, since tampons are internally worn and can be difficult to locate if they are accidentally forgotten inside. We were accused of being "too afraid" to use tampons (hello, toxic shock syndrome! Some tampons have applicators, which are plastic or cardboard tubes that help put the tampon in place. 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). We've rounded up popular options based on a range of needs, whether you're looking for a. Your Privacy Choices: Opt Out of Sale/Targeted Ads. Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome include:. The first modern tampons, similar to those we use today, were invented in 1929 by a physician named Dr. Earle Haas. Yet for all the clamor, pad users are actually in the silent statistical majority. 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. No, but seriously: These guys don . Send us your idea for a post and if we publish it, youll get $100 cash. Many users of the product are proudly tolerant or indifferent to the feminine hygiene choices of others. 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. The answer could be a mix of the two. Tampons come in a range of sizes, from light to heavy absorbencies; can be scented or unscented (though most gynecologists advise menstruators to choose unscented tampons), and can be made of 100% organic cotton or cotton/synthetic blends. Pads are directly placed onto the underwear and are designed to catch and absorb menstrual blood. You can also choose pads based on how light or heavy your blood flow is.. In this article, well break down everything you need to know about the differences between pads and tampons. VanLeeuwen C, et al. Pads are also called sanitary pads or sanitary napkins. 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. I didn't turn gay or grow a vagina. The hymen can separate during tampon insertion and cause discomfort. Instead of segregating ourselves into pad and tampons camps, or even other hygiene products like diva cups and Thinx, we can build a common cultural conversation around the issues that really matter: Ruined underwear, painful cramps, or accidentally bleeding all over your office chair while you're at work. Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Impact of currently marketed tampons and menstrual cups on Staphylococcus aureus growth and toxic shock syndrome toxin 1 production in vitro. Answer (1 of 23): Actually, neither! Pads can come in different sizes. Tampon users and pad users can get along. 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. 11 Lack of Confidence. Some women prefer menstrual cups because they are a tampon alternative that can be safely worn up to 12 hours. Where they differ are . This stops the blood from spilling and leaking. Washing clothes and linens in cold water as soon as possible can help keep blood stains to a minimum. Do you ever forget about a tampon? find tampons hard to insert or uncomfortable to wear, wear tampons but want some back-up protection against leaks. Additionally, some people may be worried about the potential for Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), although this is very rare and modern tampons must meet strict safety regulations to prevent it. Like pads, tampons come in different sizes for heavier and lighter periods. You can store tampons before and after use in an opaque plastic bag for privacy. You may see red, brown, and even black blood during your period. We want to avoid vaginal infections or materials that could harm our reproductive health. (Tampons admittedly have a minor advantage there.). Last medically reviewed on September 11, 2019. 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). To Padable, tampon and pad-users everywhere: we're proud of you too. We include products we think are useful for our readers. 5 Best Tampons - Mar. 2023 - BestReviews Pros. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 2023 PUBLIC GOODS - All Rights Reserved. For this reason, it is important to change tampons regularly, as well as to use the lowest absorbency possible for your flow. Tampons are inserted into the body and expand to hold the menstrual blood. That's almost double the amount of maxi pads bought in comparison to tampons. "Why do you want to wear an adult diaper?" Its users choice, said Siriouthay. It is absolutely normal to not want to use tampons! Maxi pads, like tampons, are made of absorbent materials that soak up menstrual blood. Or maybe it's because tampons are sleek and sexy, built like supermodels, and pads are broad-shouldered, aka, "body positive.". If mum handed you a pad that very first time, you likely kept using them. You dont need to be a tampon user to see the obvious pros of tampons. If you are uncomfortable with using them, there are plenty of other menstrual products that can be used instead, such as menstrual cups or pads. Follow her on Twitter @wear_a_helmet. The 6 Best Pads For A Heavy Flow, According To Gynecologists We break down why they don't and offer tips for soothing cramps regardless of what's causing them. Thanks for signing up. You should change your tampon every 4 to 6 hours. Overwhelmed by the ever-growing world of period underwear? (2018). Tampons vs. Pads: The Pros and Cons - Seventeen Either way, says Siriouthay, Periods shouldnt be taboo.. 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. July 1, 2020. 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. Much like well-known drugstore brands, direct-to-consumer tampon brands offer light- and ultra-absorbency options in addition to regular tampons. Its extremely important to change your tampon every 4 to 6 hours. 1. Plus, today you can find reusable cups, washable pads, and period-proof panties, among other things. Of all the props, Raccacoonie made a mint. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Overall . 14 Men Share What It's Like to Buy Sanitary Pads and Why - VagaBomb Id speculate most Western countries have similar figures. Yuanhuis story stood out for me not because of the cramps, but for the swimming-while-bleeding possibility. There are several different factors that go into every menstruators product choice. Don't try to flush a pad down the toilet they're too big and may back up the toilet and make a huge (embarrassing!) The time has come to reclaim the menstrual pad. That's just my thoughts but I have no idea why as I don't do it myself. I had my periods when I was 13! This pressure can cause your body to naturally reduce the flow of blood from your uterus. Dont ever leave a tampon in for longer especially all day or all night. Let's start by explaining what each one is. Tampons are compact and easy to transport especially if you go without the applicator, said Siriouthay. How often should I change my pad? (2018). Pads are much more environmentally friendly to dispose of since they are made of biodegradable materials. When you change your pads regularly, you stop harmful germs called bacteria from growing in them. They're also less visible under clothing. You dont have to worry about them being visible (minus the whole issue of tampon strings in swimsuit). In China as a developing nation with a very different culture around periods it makes sense that tampon use is low. And if youre totally comfortable, you can choose applicator-free tampons, which are more compact and reduce menstrual waste. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); Your email address will not be published. The amount and duration of your period is determined by a variety of factors and usually does not change with free bleeding. Pads can't be worn while you're swimming or taking a bath, while tampons are an option. This can cause gray, white, or green discharge, a fishy-smelling odor, itching, and burning during urination. So it's very important that you change your tampon at least every 4-6 hours, even if your period is light. Many female swimmers will also take ibuprofen or a similar anti-inflammatory medication to help manage pain and discomfort caused by the period. I had enough reasons to hate them. When will tampon users stop shaming pad users? | Mashable They call menstrual pads wasteful even though used tampon applicators are more popular than grains of sand on a Brooklyn beach. And 70 per cent of women said they were comfortable with continuing to use the cups. Pads come in different sizes for heavier and . What was this cramp? A place where Ani DiFrancos Blood in the Boardroom plays on a ceaseless loop. Note: All information on KidsHealth is for educational purposes only. Toxic shock syndrome is treated as a medical emergency. It really depends on the person and what they prioritize in their menstrual care, said Siriouthay, who tests menstrual products. This will help reduce the spread of bacteria. 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. For starters, most cups are reusable: just rinse and wear them again! Incidents of TTS have dropped since then and are currently estimated to affect 0.8 to 3.4 per 100,000 people in the United States. Youve got options, and at the end of the day its your period, your prerogative. For me, it was in fifth grade at my neighbors swimming pool. A new initiative called . Pads are worn in your underwear, completely outside your body. 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. You can also reduce waste by choosing tampons without applicators. Theyre more cost-effective in the long run. You may have a thick, white discharge that looks like cottage cheese. There are so many reasons I, and millions like me, choose the pad. Times have changed. Tampon usage also retains an ick factor. Again, theres nothing to hide here, but you also dont want to feel self-conscious all day. Everyone has their own preferences and comfort levels and not wanting to use tampons is just as valid as wanting to use them. Remove the applicator: Remove the applicator and discard it in the trash. Try out different options to find what works best. Many girls worry the tampon might get lost inside them. You should still remember to change the pads regularly., Cons. Then, wrap it in toilet paper, and throw it in the trash. This means that your blood and other menstrual fluids will flow freely, just as they would without any protection. 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. Some have extra material on the sides (called "wings") that fold over the edges of your underwear to better hold the pad in place and prevent leaks. Get medical help immediately if youre wearing a tampon and are experiencing any signs of toxic shock syndrome. Luckily, with a few simple guidelines, both pads and tampons are highly safe. Tampons Vs. Pads: Pros, Cons, and Which Is Better for You - Insider Tampons are a good option because they are small, nearly invisible, and swim-safe but they can be hard to insert and may carry the risk of vaginal irritation or toxic shock syndrome. Moreover, many people find pads to be more cost effective than tampons since they generally need to be replaced less frequently. Should I use pads or disposable briefs for my incontinence? A time when Girlfriend and Dolly were only seemed to publish stories about toxic shock syndrome. They must be thoroughly cleaned and dried before storing after your cycle. Many people tend to tense up, resulting in difficulty with insertion. You have to wash them, which can be an issue if you need to change them on the go. 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. 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. 1995-2023. How Often Should You Condition Your Hair? When you try one for the first time, wash your hands well, follow the directions carefully, and be sure to relax. In Rio, explaining her third-place swim, Yuanhui blamed it on cramps. Toketemu Ohwovorioleis a freelance writer for Insider. Generally, allergy to materials found within tampons is rare but it is still possible for it to occur. Change to a new tampon at least every 4 to 6 hours. Just dont!. We may earn commission from the links on this page. Too cheap to buy a Tempur-pedic pillow? They can rip or pull apart when youre removing them. Here are some things to consider when choosing between the two most common products: tampons vs pads. Carry disinfecting wipes with you in case blood gets on other surfaces. If you need help, tell a parent. Lastly, there may be religious or cultural concerns that discourage or prohibit the use of tampons. I was at high school throughout much of the 1990s. 1 In 10 College Students Can't Afford Pads Or Tampons. Could - Forbes Being reusable means you save a lot of money. 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. I usually wear pads, just rather have the . Pads are rectangle-shaped pieces of absorbent material which you can stick onto the inside of your underwear. Heavy flows and cramps can be a common experience during your periods. 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. Menstrual cups are flexible cups made of silicone or rubber that you wear inside your vagina to catch menstrual blood. But between these options, and the classic tampons and pads, menstruators today have so much to choose from. The biggest risk is viruses, such as hepatitis, which can be transmitted through dried blood for several days. Solving Problems With Login To iTunes Account As Well As Your iTunes Sign In. It can take some time for you to experiment with what products are right for you. They can feel bulkier, especially as they absorb blood, and depending on the pad and clothes youre wearing, can be apparent.. Theyre more breathable than regular pads. 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. Only use tampons when you have your period. Dear Chris, You're not so strange. If you're willing to pay a little extra for convenience, extendable tampons will set you back between $0.19 and $0.23 per tampon.