Puberty, Adolescence & Tampons

 

Tampons v. Pads for period bleeding?

Whether to use a tampon or a menstrual pad is a personal choice based on individual comfort and preference. Both options have their advantages, and it often depends on your lifestyle, activity level, and personal comfort.

Menstrual pads (also known as pads or sanitary napkins) are placed in your underwear to absorb menstrual flow. They are easy to use, don’t require insertion, and come in various sizes and absorbencies. Pads can provide a sense of security and can be a good choice for those who are new to menstruation or prefer not to insert anything into their vagina.

Tampons, on the other hand, are inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual fluid. They come in different sizes and absorbencies as well. Tampons can offer more freedom of movement, especially during activities such as swimming or sports, as they are worn internally and don’t cause discomfort or visible bulkiness. However, some people may find tampon insertion uncomfortable or challenging, especially when they are new to using them.

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide which option you feel most comfortable with. Some people also choose to use a combination of both, depending on their needs at different times during their period. It’s always a good idea to try both options and see which one works best for you. If you have any concerns, it’s also helpful to speak with a healthcare professional for additional guidance and recommendations. 

 

How do you insert a tampon for the first time?

Using a tampon for the first time can be a intimidating! Don’t be too hard on yourself and remember, practice makes perfect. Here are some tips that will make it easier for you:

1. Find time to get a large mirror and take a look at your vulva, especially the vaginal opening, also called the introitus. When you get to know your vulva and vagina, you may not see an “opening” for the tampon to be inserted since the hymenal ring may be covering this opening. The hymenal ring is a fleshy, extra tissue. The tampon will go into the vagina at a parallel (not perpendicular) angle. 

2. Start by finding a comfortable and private place. A private home bathroom is ideal.
   3. Make sure your hands are clean by washing them with soap and warm water.
3. Select the smallest tampon when you first learn how to insert a tampon.
   5. Hold the tampon applicator in your hand and find the small, rounded end.
   6. With your other hand, gently spread your labia (the outer lips of your vagina) apart.
   7. Now take the tampon and place the rounded end at the opening of your vagina. You can put a pea size of a lubricant on the end of the tampon for an easier vaginal placement.
   8. Gently push the tampon into your vagina with your index finger until your fingers touch your body.
   9. Once it’s inside, use your finger to push the smaller, inner tube through the bigger, outer tube, so that the tampon is released.
   10. Carefully pull out the applicator, making sure the string is hanging outside of your body.
   11. To remove the tampon later, simply pull on the string gently until it comes out.
4. Remember to not leave the tampon inside the vagina for more than 8 hours.
   
   Remember, it might take a few tries to get it right, so be patient and take your time. If you ever feel uncomfortable or need more guidance, it’s always a good idea to ask a trusted adult or healthcare professional for help.

 

If I use a tampon and have never had sex before, does that mean I am no longer a virgin?

The concept of virginity is a personal and individual conversation, and it can have different meanings to different people and cultures. Traditionally, virginity is often associated with the state of not having engaged in sexual intercourse.

Using a tampon does not involve sexual intercourse and does not change your virginity status. Virginity is typically related to sexual activity between people, rather than the use of tampons or other forms of menstrual products.

It’s important to remember that your virginity status and sexual choices are personal decisions, and it is entirely up to you to define what that means for yourself. If you have any further questions or concerns about sexual health, it is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide guidance and support tailored to your specific situation.

 

What does virginity mean in today’s world?

When I was growing up, the term “virgin” referred to a person who had never had sexual intercourse—for girls, that meant having an intact hymen—but it also referred to one who was not engaged in sexual activity. In today’s world, I think that the definition of a virgin seems to be outdated, at best. Hearing that some of my teenage patients believed they were still virgins, even though they were having oral or anal sex, was the first thing that prompted me to reconsider the definition of virginity. Virginity certainly does not preclude sexual activity. What counts as sexual activity is the exchange of any kind of bodily fluid—including kissing! That exchange of fluids also happens when a penis enters the mouth, vagina, or rectum—all of which constitute sexual activity. 

If you are part of the LGBT community, you may not ever have had sexual intercourse— especially since that term usually refers to sex between a man and a woman—but you may be sexually active. The definition of losing one’s virginity is complicated and personal. It means 50 different things to different people. It’s really up to you to decide what losing your virginity means. When you are ready to be sexually active with a person you feel comfortable and safe with, then it’s the right time to engage in sexual activity. Don’t ever let anyone make the decision for you as to when you should become sexually active. “Don’t worry, you’ll still be a virgin” is not a reason to let someone coerce you into a sexually active relationship that includes everything but sexual intercourse. Virginity is not the point. The point is to make the decision on your own, when you’re ready

 

Is there anything a woman can do either before or while inserting a tampon to make it more comfortable for her? 

 

Practice makes perfect.  It’s important to select the right size of tampon depending on your blood flow.  If you have a light flow, select a smaller tampon. If you are bleeding heavily use a super-absorbent tampon.  Tampon selection makes insertion easier.  

Make sure you are in the right position. Many women like to put one foot on top of the toilet when inserting a tampon. This allows the angle of the vagina to be more parallel to the tampon which makes insertion easier. When inserting a tampon, make sure the applicator is completely flush with the vaginal opening before pushing the cotton piece into the vagina.

 

It’s important to select the right size of tampon depending on your blood flow.  If you have a light flow select a smaller tampon. If you are bleeding heavily use a super-absorbent tampon.  The correct tampon selection makes insertion much easier.

How frequently should you change your tampon?

Tampons should be changed every 4 to 8 hours.

 

Why do tampons increase the risk of developing Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)?

In menstruating women, a super-absorbent tampon left in the vagina for a long period of time may serve a breeding ground for the Staph bacteria that can ultimately end up in the bloodstream leading to TSS.

Are the same risks associated with the menstrual cup?

You are up equal risk for TSS if you leave the menstrual cup in for longer than 12 hours.

 

What other risk factors for TSS?

Women at risk include leaving a tampon in the vagina for more than 8 hours, a menstrual cup in longer than 12 hours and those who have a compromised immune system such as those with HIV or cancer.

 

What are the symptoms of TSS? 

Symptoms of TSS can occur quickly and without warning.  TSS can start out as a fever, a rash that looks like a “sunburn”, especially on the hands and feet, vomiting, muscle aches, headaches or diarrhea.  The “sunburn” rash which appears on the palm of the hands and bottom of the feet is the hallmark skin changes characteristic of TSS.  TSS symptoms can progress to low blood pressure, ulcerations in mucous membranes such as your eyes, mouth and throat and ultimately cause difficulty breathing and death. A thorough exam and a detailed history is key in establishing the diagnosis of TSS and not confusing it with your basic viral infection.

 

 How is TSS treated?

TSS is most commonly treated with aggressive intravenous antibiotics and hydration.  If the TSS is really severe, immunoglobin therapy and blood transfusion are needed to clean out the harmful bacteria from your body.

 

 What are the best steps to prevent TSS?

There are steps you can take during your period to prevent TSS.  Tampons should be changed every 4 to 8 hours.  Using the lowest absorbency tampon will also minimize your risk.  Others suggest alternating tampons and sanitary pads when possible, especially is your blood flow is very light.

 

Since TSS is so rare, many girls may not give it a second thought — why is it important to be on the lookout for symptoms?

Even though TSS is rare when it does happen it can be life threatening.  Being educated will avoid the need to panic about tampon use.  Young women need to know about TSS, how it can happen and how you can prevent it.  You can never be too concerned or cautious about preventing TSS.  When you least expect it, TSS can occur. It’s important to know the signs and symptoms associated with this unpredictable and potentially fatal disease. 

 

Is there a reason why tampons are so uncomfortable (even somewhat painful) for some women but not for others? 

A tampon should never hurt if properly inserted inside the vagina. If the tampon is not inserted deep inside the vagina, it can be halfway in and halfway out causing discomfort, especially at the vaginal opening. Another cause of pain is if a super absorbent tampon is used during a lighter flow which can cause pain due to vagina dryness.  Removing an oversized tampon with a light flow can feel as though your vagina is being pulled inside out. If your flow is especially light, make sure you use a slender tampon or a pad to avoid this common problem. 

Improper insertion or not using the right size tampon with the amount of blood flow are the 2 main culprits. 

 

Is pain when inserting or wearing tampons always associated with painful sex? 

 

Painful tampon insertion or picking the wrong tampon for the amount of blood flow is often not associated with painful sex. There is a long list of causes of painful sex unrelated to tampon use.

 

What is the difference between regular and organic tampons?

The difference is organic tampon companies make claims that the organic tampons are composed of 100% organic cotton, free of chemicals, rayon and synthetics, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, not bleached with chlorine, dioxin free, cardboard applicators, BPA-free plastic applicators and free of additive chemicals that may be harmful to a women’s health.

Are organic tampons safer than other tampons? 

 

Organic tampons are not necessarily any safer than the traditional manufactured tampons available to the consumer.

Media and internet hype has a lot of influence in just about every aspect of life.  Is organic better when it comes to using tampons is a common question asked by many of my patients as a result of this hype and unproven claims about the dangers of everyday purchased tampons used by half the population.

When properly tested, regular tampons are safe and free of harmful chemicals. The FDA has tested and cleared traditionally used tampons for women to use safely and with confidence.

Are there any benefits to organic tampons?

 

Organic tampons are available as an alternative for women who prefer to go this route.  Similar to choosing organic vegetables it’s an alternative and not necessarily better or safer for women to consume.

The fact is the tampon industry is regulated and women are protected from tampons containing excessive amounts of asbestos, dioxin and rayon fibers, which are chemicals that can potentially cause harm if contained in large amounts in tampons.

There’s a trend to living a more organic and healthy life in 2023, from what you consume in your diet to what you put inside your vagina. We are supposed to believe that the more natural and organic tampons are the better and safer they are for women. But make no mistake, just because a company claims that organic tampons are healthier and safer for you, doesn’t necessarily mean it’s supported by medical research.

 

What materials should you look for when buying organic tampons?

If you are going to purchase organic tampons you will want to make sure they are composed of 100% organic cotton, free of chemicals, rayon and synthetics, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, not bleached with chlorine, dioxin free, cardboard applicators, BPA-free plastic applicators and free of additive chemicals.  

 

 

 What makes tampons organic? 

 

Companies that make claims that tampons are organic say they are composed of 100% organic cotton, free of chemicals, rayon and synthetics, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, not bleached with chlorine, dioxin free, cardboard applicators, BPA-free plastic applicators and free of additive chemicals that may be harmful to a women’s health.

 

What is potentially harmful or less than ideal about traditional tampons? 

 

It was thought that 1,4-dioxane, which is a known contaminant found in everyday products commonly used such as cosmetics, shampoos, conditions, lotions, soaps and baby products could be harmful to a woman’s health. Also known as dioxin, it is created when tampons are bleached with chlorine. In large doses it was found to be a known carcinogen which could cause cancer.

 

Luckily it is found in extremely small or trace quantities in these every day products including tampons.  There is some skin absorption of 1,4-dioxane in cosmetic products, lotions and children’s shampoo’s which can be cause of concern. However, your overall risk of developing cancer is minimal and there is no scientific evidence to support any dangers to a woman’s health and wellness using nonorganic tampons.

 

Other ingredients in nonorganic tampons including chemicals in cotton from pesticides, rayon, chlorine, asbestos, parabens and phthalates are also thought to be potentially harmful to women.

 

 

What can women expect to notice that is different about organic tampons? 

 

What is different with organic tampons is the marketing claims and packaging compared to traditional non-organic brands.  I don’t think women will physically notice a difference between the two types of products.  With that said, mentally the difference will have a powerful effect.

 

What does the FDA have to say about tampon ingredients? 

 

The fact is the tampon industry is regulated and women are protected from tampons containing excessive amounts of asbestos, dioxin and rayon fibers, which are chemicals that can potentially cause harm if contained in large amounts in tampons.

 

When properly tested, these every day used tampon purchased by women are safe and have non-detectable amounts of these harmful chemicals. The FDA has tested and cleared traditionally used tampons for women to use safely.

 

 

What are the best brands of organic tampons to purchase?

 

I don’t feel as though organic tampons are necessary or any safer than the traditional manufactured tampons available to the consumer. For those women who are fearful of traditional tampons looking for a healthier alternative, the menstrual cup or period panties is the way to go.

 

 

Do you recommend certain tampons?

 

Media and internet hype has a lot of influence in just about every aspect of life.  Is organic better when it comes to using tampons is a common question asked by many of my patients as a result of this hype and unproven claims about the dangers of every day purchased tampons used by half the population.

 

Organic tampons are available as an alternative for women who prefer to go this route.  Similar to choosing organic vegetables it’s an alternative and not necessarily better or safer for women to consume.

 

The most important rule to follow when using tampons is to change them every 4 to 8 hours so you don’t increase your risk of toxic shock syndrome.

 

I respect a woman’s right to choose, even in the tampon space. 

 

What should consumers look for in their tampons if they are concerned about harmful ingredients?

 

It’s important to select a reliable and respected feminine hygiene company with a good track record. Don’t select unknown companies with discounted brands.  Remember, the FDA has regulations over tampon manufacturers and what is being used inside a women’s body, especially inside her vagina.  

 

Can you lose a tampon inside the vagina?

You would be surprised how common I see what is medically called a “lost tampon”!  All of us are constantly multitasking and for some reason or another a tampon can be easily forgotten.  Regardless of your age, it is not unusual to just forget if you recently put a tampon in or not.  

If a day or two passes and you notice a watery-brown discharge with a foul and pungent odor you may have forgotten to remove a tampon.  It’s different than a yeast infection in that you would have itching and a thick cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge.  It’s also different than a bacterial infection in that you would have a yellow or grey vaginal discharge and a fishy odor

When in doubt you need to become vagina-friendly and “fish” around in the very back of the vagina. You need to feel around the hard circular cervix to see if you feel the tampon. It definitely can be tricky to find since lost tampons typically turn sideways and land in the very back of the vagina under the cervix!

If you are fortunate enough to be able to find a “lost tampon” on your own you are pretty lucky.  Often a “lost tampon” is turned sideways and is sitting in the very back of your vagina.  It can be hard to find!  If you have found one and know it’s been over inside the vagina for more than a couple days (or longer!), you can go buy a water vinegar douche at your local CVS to clean out the vagina. This is the one time that vaginal douching is a good idea.  

When it comes to a “lost tampon” you know that something is just not right down there. Follow your instinct and go to urgent care or see your healthcare provider for a pelvic exam when in doubt.  

What about the menstrual cup, is that an option?

If you haven’t heard of a menstrual cup, you are not alone.  The menstrual cup was originally designed to be placed inside the vagina to collect blood from period or menstrual bleeding. Sounds a bit more intimate than most women want to be with their periods!

There are many different brands of the menstrual cups now available on the market.  The “award winning” Diva Cup is one of the most popular brands, being offered in 2 different sizes for that perfect vaginal fit.  Other brand names include the Lunette Menstrual Cup, Anigan Evacup, Th-Keeper, Mooncup, Ruby Cup, Ladycup, Femmecup to name a few. They all have similar qualities including being made of a vag-safe material such as plastic, silicone-based, latex which is hypo-allergenic, biocompatible…the basic translation is they all meet the medical female standards to be used safely.  Some have to be replaced every couple years while others are disposable. They all serve the same function to collect blood during a period.  

The menstrual cup was first introduced in the 1930’s and seems to be growing in popularity and curiosity over the years.  Purchasing considerations are important since getting the right fit can be half the battle. Some brands come in 2 sizes— small (before-) and large (after-) having a baby through the vagina. If you have not had a baby you would want to purchase a small size to avoid the menstrual cup from falling out of the vagina with straining, such as when having a poop.

 

What do women LOVE about the Menstrual Cup?

• Natural and environmentally friendly way to collect Aunt Flow’s monthly gift.
• Saves a lot of money on those costly tampons and Kotex pads.
• Healthier alternative than inserting commercially made products into the vagina.
• Convenient-no need to stockpile tampons and pads in your backpack.
• More comfortable than tampons and Kotex pads.
• Nighttime blood collection is often easier to collect-saves cleaning bloody sheets in the morning!
• Only have to buy one every year or so the cost on average is $40.
• You can use it to collect blood if you want to have sex during your period
• You can leave the menstrual cup inside the vagina for 12 hours.

 

What do women HATE about the Menstrual Cup?

• It’s not so easy to insert into the back of the vagina-where is that 3rd hand when you need it?
• Removing it is challenging and a bloody mess.
• Getting the right fit can be impossible.
• You may be more prone to yeast and bacterial infections if left in too long or not cleaned properly.
• Straining with a poop may just pop it right out of your va-jay jay!

If Cirque du Soleil is not your thing the menstrual cup may not be for you.  For those who swear by it, the menstrual cup can be life changing so it may be worth trying.  If this has sparked your interest, shop around and see which brand and size is the right fit for your vagina.  The bottom line, “to each their own!”