Puberty, Adolescence & Tampons<\/b><\/p>\n
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Tampons v. Pads for period bleeding?<\/b><\/p>\n
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.<\/span> <\/p>\n How do you insert a tampon for the first time?<\/b><\/p>\n Using a tampon for the first time can be a intimidating! Don\u2019t be too hard on yourself and remember, practice makes perfect. Here are some tips that will make it easier for you:<\/span> <\/p>\n If I use a tampon and have never had sex before, does that mean I am no longer a virgin?<\/b><\/p>\n <\/b><\/p>\n 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.<\/span> <\/p>\n What does virginity mean in today\u2019s world?<\/b><\/p>\n When I was growing up, the term \u201cvirgin\u201d referred to a person who had never had sexual intercourse\u2014for girls, that meant having an intact hymen\u2014but it also referred to one who was not engaged in sexual activity. In today\u2019s world, I think that the definition of a virgin seems to be outdated, at best.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\u2014including kissing! That exchange of fluids also happens when a penis enters the mouth, vagina, or rectum\u2014all of which constitute sexual activity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n If you are part of the LGBT community, you may not ever have had sexual intercourse\u2014 especially since that term usually refers to sex between a man and a woman\u2014but you may be sexually active. The definition of losing one\u2019s virginity is complicated and personal. It means 50 different things to different people. It\u2019s 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\u2019s the right time to engage in sexual activity. Don\u2019t ever let anyone make the decision for you as to when you should become sexually active. \u201cDon\u2019t worry, you\u2019ll still be a virgin\u201d 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\u2019re ready<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Is there anything a woman can do either before or while inserting a tampon to make it more comfortable for her?\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Practice makes perfect.\u00a0 It\u2019s important to select the right size of tampon depending on your blood flow.\u00a0 If you have a light flow, select a smaller tampon. If you are bleeding heavily use a super-absorbent tampon.\u00a0 Tampon selection makes insertion easier.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n 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.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n It\u2019s important to select the right size of tampon depending on your blood flow.\u00a0 If you have a light flow select a smaller tampon. If you are bleeding heavily use a super-absorbent tampon.\u00a0 The correct tampon selection makes insertion much easier.<\/span><\/p>\n How frequently should you change your tampon?<\/b><\/p>\n Tampons should be changed every 4 to 8 hours.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Why do tampons increase the risk of developing Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)?<\/b><\/p>\n 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.<\/span><\/p>\n Are the same risks associated with the menstrual cup?<\/b><\/p>\n You are up equal risk for TSS if you leave the menstrual cup in for longer than 12 hours.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n What other risk factors for TSS?<\/b><\/p>\n 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.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n What are the symptoms of TSS?\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n Symptoms of TSS can occur quickly and without warning.\u00a0 TSS can start out as a fever, a rash that looks like a \u201csunburn\u201d, especially on the hands and feet, vomiting, muscle aches, headaches or diarrhea.\u00a0 The \u201csunburn\u201d rash which appears on the palm of the hands and bottom of the feet is the hallmark skin changes characteristic of TSS.\u00a0 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.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u00a0How is TSS treated?<\/b><\/p>\n TSS is most commonly treated with aggressive intravenous antibiotics and hydration.\u00a0 If the TSS is really severe, immunoglobin therapy and blood transfusion are needed to clean out the harmful bacteria from your body.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u00a0What are the best steps to prevent TSS?<\/b><\/p>\n There are steps you can take during your period to prevent TSS.\u00a0 Tampons should be changed every 4 to 8 hours.\u00a0 Using the lowest absorbency tampon will also minimize your risk.\u00a0 Others suggest alternating tampons and sanitary pads when possible, especially is your blood flow is very light.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n 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?<\/b><\/p>\n Even though TSS is rare when it does happen it can be life threatening.\u00a0 Being educated will avoid the need to panic about tampon use.\u00a0 Young women need to know about TSS, how it can happen and how you can prevent it.\u00a0 You can never be too concerned or cautious about preventing TSS.\u00a0 When you least expect it, TSS can occur. It\u2019s important to know the signs and symptoms associated with this unpredictable and potentially fatal disease.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Is there a reason why tampons are so uncomfortable (even somewhat painful) for some women but not for others?\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n 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.\u00a0 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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Improper insertion or not using the right size tampon with the amount of blood flow are the 2 main culprits.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Is pain when inserting or wearing tampons always associated with painful sex?\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n <\/p>\n 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.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n What is the difference between regular and organic tampons?<\/b><\/p>\n 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\u2019s health.<\/span><\/p>\n Are organic tampons safer than other tampons?\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Organic tampons are not necessarily any safer than the traditional manufactured tampons available to the consumer.<\/span><\/p>\n Media and internet hype has a lot of influence in just about every aspect of life.\u00a0 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.<\/span><\/p>\n 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.<\/span><\/p>\n Are there any benefits to organic tampons?<\/b><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Organic tampons are available as an alternative for women who prefer to go this route.\u00a0 Similar to choosing organic vegetables it\u2019s an alternative and not necessarily better or safer for women to consume.<\/span><\/p>\n The fact is the tampon industry\u00a0<\/span>is<\/span><\/i>\u00a0regulated 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.<\/span><\/p>\n There\u2019s 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\u2019t necessarily mean it\u2019s supported by medical research.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n What materials should you look for when buying organic tampons?<\/b><\/p>\n 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.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0What makes tampons organic?\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n 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\u2019s health.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n What is potentially harmful or less than ideal about traditional tampons?\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n 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\u2019s 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.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Luckily it is found in extremely small or trace quantities in these every day products including tampons.\u00a0 There is some skin absorption of 1,4-dioxane in cosmetic products, lotions and children\u2019s shampoo\u2019s 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\u2019s health and wellness using nonorganic tampons.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n 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.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n What can women expect to notice that is different about organic tampons?\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n What is different with organic tampons is the marketing claims and packaging compared to traditional non-organic brands.\u00a0 I don\u2019t think women will physically notice a difference between the two types of products.\u00a0 With that said, mentally the difference will have a powerful effect.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n What does the FDA have to say about tampon ingredients?\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The fact is the tampon industry\u00a0<\/span>is<\/span><\/i>\u00a0regulated 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.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n 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.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n What are the best brands of organic tampons to purchase?<\/b><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n I don\u2019t 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.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Do you recommend certain tampons?<\/b><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Media and internet hype has a lot of influence in just about every aspect of life.\u00a0 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.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Organic tampons are available as an alternative for women who prefer to go this route.\u00a0 Similar to choosing organic vegetables it\u2019s an alternative and not necessarily better or safer for women to consume.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The most important rule to follow when using tampons is to change them every 4 to 8 hours so you don\u2019t increase your risk of toxic shock syndrome.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n I respect a woman\u2019s right to choose, even in the tampon space.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n What should consumers look for in their tampons if they are concerned about harmful ingredients?<\/b><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n It\u2019s important to select a reliable and respected feminine hygiene company with a good track record. Don\u2019t select unknown companies with discounted brands.\u00a0 Remember, the FDA has regulations over tampon manufacturers and what is being used inside a women\u2019s body, especially inside her vagina.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Can you lose a tampon inside the vagina?<\/b><\/p>\n You would be surprised how common I see what is medically called a \u201clost tampon\u201d!\u00a0 All of us are constantly multitasking and for some reason or another a tampon can be easily forgotten.\u00a0 Regardless of your age, it is not unusual to just forget if you recently put a tampon in or not.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n 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.\u00a0 It\u2019s different than a yeast infection in that you would have itching and a thick cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge.\u00a0 It\u2019s also different than a bacterial infection in that you would have a yellow or grey vaginal discharge and a fishy odor<\/span><\/p>\n When in doubt you need to become vagina-friendly and \u201cfish\u201d 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!<\/span><\/p>\n If you are fortunate enough to be able to find a \u201clost tampon\u201d on your own you are pretty lucky.\u00a0 Often a \u201clost tampon\u201d is turned sideways and is sitting in the very back of your vagina.\u00a0 It can be hard to find!\u00a0 If you have found one and know it\u2019s 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.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n When it comes to a \u201clost tampon\u201d 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.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n What about the menstrual cup, is that an option?<\/b><\/p>\n If you haven\u2019t heard of a menstrual cup, you are not alone.\u00a0 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!<\/span><\/p>\n There are many different brands of the menstrual cups now available on the market.\u00a0 The \u201caward winning\u201d Diva Cup is one of the most popular brands, being offered in 2 different sizes for that perfect vaginal fit.\u00a0 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\u2026the basic translation is they all meet the medical female standards to be used safely.\u00a0 Some have to be replaced every couple years while others are disposable. They all serve the same function to collect blood during a period.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The menstrual cup was first introduced in the 1930\u2019s and seems to be growing in popularity and curiosity over the years.\u00a0 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.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n What do women LOVE about the Menstrual Cup?<\/b><\/p>\n <\/p>\n What do women HATE about the Menstrual Cup?<\/b><\/p>\n If Cirque du Soleil is not your thing the menstrual cup may not be for you.\u00a0 For those who swear by it, the menstrual cup can be life changing so it may be worth trying.\u00a0 If this has sparked your interest, shop around and see which brand and size is the right fit for your vagina.\u00a0 The bottom line, \u201cto each t<\/span>heir<\/span><\/i> own!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" 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 […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[10],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1240","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-common-questions"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/portfolio.zenkoders.com\/ai-powered\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1240","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/portfolio.zenkoders.com\/ai-powered\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/portfolio.zenkoders.com\/ai-powered\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/portfolio.zenkoders.com\/ai-powered\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/portfolio.zenkoders.com\/ai-powered\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1240"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/portfolio.zenkoders.com\/ai-powered\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1240\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1241,"href":"https:\/\/portfolio.zenkoders.com\/ai-powered\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1240\/revisions\/1241"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/portfolio.zenkoders.com\/ai-powered\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1240"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/portfolio.zenkoders.com\/ai-powered\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1240"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/portfolio.zenkoders.com\/ai-powered\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1240"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
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\n<\/span>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.<\/span>
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\n<\/span>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.<\/span>
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\n<\/span>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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n
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\n<\/span>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 \u201copening\u201d 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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n\n
\n<\/span>3. Make sure your hands are clean by washing them with soap and warm water.<\/span><\/li>\n
\n<\/span>5. Hold the tampon applicator in your hand and find the small, rounded end. <\/span>
\n<\/span>6. With your other hand, gently spread your labia (the outer lips of your vagina) apart.<\/span>
\n<\/span>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.<\/span>
\n<\/span>8. Gently push the tampon into your vagina with your index finger until your fingers touch your body.<\/span>
\n<\/span>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.<\/span>
\n<\/span>10. Carefully pull out the applicator, making sure the string is hanging outside of your body.<\/span>
\n<\/span>11. To remove the tampon later, simply pull on the string gently until it comes out.<\/span><\/li>\n
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\n<\/span>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.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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\n<\/span>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.<\/span>
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\n<\/span>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.<\/span><\/p>\n\n
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