Table of Contents
Introduction
Tampons have become a reliable type of menstrual hygiene product in recent days.
Although it has gained popularity, many women still have a lot of questions and doubts about them.
In this article, let’s discuss everything about tampons with expert insights.
What are tampons?
Tampons are a kind of menstrual hygiene product that absorbs the blood and the menstrual fluid during menstruation.
Tampons usually come with a string, which makes it easy to pull the tampon outside while removing it.
Tampons are mostly made of cotton or a blend of cotton and rayon, as they have a good absorption capacity and are skin friendly too.
In this article, let’s discuss how one can choose the best tampon and everything else about tampons.
Types of Tampons:
Tampons come in quite a few types and sizes available on the market. One can choose the best tampons according to their choice.
A few types of tampons are:
- Regular tampons: Regular or normal tampons are soft cylindrical shaped in nature. It is used to absorb the menstrual blood and prevent leakage.
- Applicator tampons: The applicator tampons are regular tampons that come with an applicator tool. The tool is mostly made out of plastic or cardboard which can be used to push the tampon inside the vagina without using your hands.
- Organic tampons: Organic tampons are regular tampons that are made organically with cotton. It doesn’t contain a lot of harmful chemicals like bleach, dyes, fragrance, etc.
- Digital tampons: Digital tampons are made of viscose fibre that can absorb more blood than regular periods which can be used for heavy flow days.
- Mini or compact tampons: As the name suggests, mini or compact tampons are smaller size tampons that can absorb menstrual like a regular tampon but looks a little narrow and compact than regular tampon which makes it easy to carry.
Tampons also come in quite a few sizes like small, regular, larger, extra large etc and can be chosen depending upon one’s flow and preference.
How to Select Tampons Based on Period Flow:
Choosing the right tampon size depends for the menstrual flow:
Light or regular tampon: When the flow is light or during the last few days of the periods, one can opt for regular or light tampon.
Medium sized tampon: A regular or medium sized tampon can be opted when the flow is not too light and not too heavy.
Extra large or super absorbent tampon: When the period flow is heavy or during the first 2 days of the periods, one can opt for a tampon that has a good absorbent capacity, like a super absorbent tampon or a large /extra large tampon.
Tip: It is also important to choose soft tampons, as they do not cause any irritation to the skin and are super comfortable to use.
There are a lot of organic or natural tampons available that are soft, super absorbent in nature and do not contain a lot of harmful chemicals.
Steps to Use Tampons:
- Wash your hands: Washing the hands before and after using any hygiene products is very crucial to avoid spread of any infections or bacteria.
- Right type: Ensure to choose the right type of tampon and the right size according to the period flow.
- Prep the tampon: Take one tampon and peel the sticker from it. Pull the string of the tampon gently.
- Position: Sit in a squat position or lift one leg up whichever is comfortable, preferably by spreading your legs apart.
- Insert the tampon: Insert the tampon with the applicator if it has one or just with your finger gently aiming to the back. Do not push the tampon directly upwards. Push the tampon in such a way that you don’t feel it anymore.
- Check for comfort: Once inserted, check if the tampon is inserted properly and if it is comfortable. Do not forget to wash your hands after using the tampon.
To remove a tampon:
- Position: Sit in a comfortable position by spreading your legs apart.
- Remove the tampon: Grab the string of the tampon and pull it gently. Ensure to not use too much pressure.
- Relax: It is important to keep yourself calm while removing a tampon as it might be a little difficult to remove the tampon if you are too stressed.
How to Dispose of Tampons?
The best and responsible way to dispose of a tampon is to wrap it in a tissue paper or a piece of paper and throw it in the dustbin just like how you would dispose of a sanitary pad.
Do not ever flush the tampon into the toilet.
Conclusion
Tampons might feel a little difficult to insert and remove during the initial stages.
But with some practice, you can easily learn to use them. One of the main things to keep in mind is to not panic or stress while removing a tampon as the pressure makes it difficult for it to come out.
Keep yourself calm and gently remove the tampon by pulling the string.
It is important to consult with a gynecologist before trying out any menstrual hygiene products.
Contact Jammi scans at 7338771733 for consultation with the best gynecologist in Chennai Dr. Deepthi Jammi.
Chennai Women’s Clinic is now Jammi Scans
FAQ:
1. What are tampons made out of?
Tampons are usually made of cotton, rayon or a mix of both as they have good absorption capacity.
2. Are reusable tampons safe?
Most tampons aren’t safe to reuse and you need to change them every 6 to 8 hours depending upon flow and comfort level.
If the tampon is specifically reusable in nature like cloth tampons, then it can be washed, sterilised and then reused based on the instructions.
3. How do I know my tampon size?
One can find their tampon size according to the flow. The first few days or the heavy flow days require a large or a super absorbent tampon where as a regular and a light tampon when the flow of medium to light.
4. Can you sleep with a tampon in?
Yes. You can of course sleep with a tampon. But ensure to change the tampon once every 4 hours even during the night to prevent leakage and foul smell.
5. Is it OK if I feel my tampon?
If there is any discomfort in the vaginal area or if you can constantly feel the tampon, you might have inserted it incorrectly and might want to reinsert it to change to a new tampon.
6. How often should I change tampons?
A tampon can last up to 6 to 8 hours at a stretch. But one needs to change them depending on the flow too. If the flow is heavy, it is better to change the tampon every 4 hours.
