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The most common product used during menstruation is sanitary pads, but have you heard about tampons? This article will tell everything about tampons.
A tampon is a kind of hygiene sanitary product, which is inserted into the vagina where it will absorb the menstrual flow during the period. The tampons are approved by FDA and it is used for only one time not more than that. But there are a lot of things and safety measures to follow while using tampons.
What is a tampon?
Tampons are the sanitary product used during the menstrual cycle, and it is a little plug that is made of cotton. The tampons are designed in such a way that it will fit inside the vagina and absorbs the menstrual blood. Tampons may come with or without an applicator; the applicator will help you to insert the tampons. Also, there is a string that is attached at the end of tampons using that you can easily pull the tampons.
Tampons are made of cotton or rayon or a combination of both and also fibers are included in the tampons for a better absorption process. The tampons have undergone the bleaching process so it is free from chlorine.
Most tampons will undergo the evaluating process done by the FDA to check whether it is safe and effective to use and also they will come under the legal tampons. In the FDA’s review, they will check what kind of material the tampons and applicators are made of and they check whether the materials are safe or not. Along with that, they will check the tampon’s absorption property, strength, integrity, and the most important thing is that do they change the normal bacteria level in the vagina or increase the growth of harmful bacteria in your body.
After undergoing all these, the tampons will be considered safe to use. So before buying a tampon make sure it is legally certified. Another important thing to consider is, tampons are made of single-use and shouldn’t be used repeatedly.
How to use tampons?
There are varieties of tampons available in the market and the tampons may differ based on the size and absorption property. Also, a tampon comes with or without an applicator. So here a few steps for beginners on how to use tampons.
- Wash your hands before using the tampons and make yourself comfortable by choosing the right position. You either choose to squat by keeping one leg up or sit on the toilet by keeping your legs apart.
- Push the tampons inside your vagina and if you have an applicator you can use that. Otherwise, push it using the fingers.
- Be relax and comfortable, so that the tampons can go easily inside the vagina. Also, use any kind of lubricant on the top of the tampons as it will go smooth.
- Now throw the applicator or wrapper in the dustbin, if you are using applicator tampons. Don’t flush it.
- While removing the tampons, you can simply pull the string which is at the end of the vagina. Pulling the tampons is easy to do as it is wet and also it absorbs the menstrual bleed.
- You can throw the tampons by wrapping them in the paper and throw it in the dustbin, don’t use the flush.
Safety tips to follow before using the tampons
Based on your health and body type you can prefer using the tampons but there are certain ways to follow before using the tampons. Here are some of the safety measures that need to consider;
- The tampons may be different based on the company, so before using the tampons read the instructions completely. It is not only for beginners but also for experienced users.
- Before using the tampons, wash your hands completely so that it won’t spread any kind of bacteria. You should change the tampons every 4 to 8 hours and not use the tampons for more than 8 hours to prevent serious vaginal discomfort.
- Use the tampons that have low absorption property and don’t use the tampons that will last for 8 hours. Low absorption tampons may keep you away from Toxic Shock Syndrome.
- Use the tampons only during your menstrual cycle, and it should not be used for any other purposes.
- During the night, you need to make sure that you changed the tampons before going to bed, and once after woke up you should change them not leaving them for more than 8 hours.
- Don’t use the tampons after a few months of delivery as it is the time where your vagina would be sore and in pain and also the immune system will be weak. So using tampons after the baby delivery is not recommendable.
- Prefer organic tampons over scented or harsh bleached tampons as these kinds of tampons will cause discomfort in the vagina and a serious pH imbalance.
Pros and Cons of tampons
Pros:
- The size of the tampons is small, so it will fit into your palm. It would be convenient to use and easy to carry.
- Even during the swimming also, you can wear tampons as it won’t create any discomfort.
- You don’t have to worry about the overflow or visibility of tampons. As they will fit into the vagina properly, you can wear any kind of dress.
Cons:
- The biggest drawback of the tampon is the risk of Toxic shock syndrome (TTC). It is a syndrome that causes bacterial infection and you will undergo dizziness, high fever, diarrhea, sore throat, and weakness. But it is a very rare syndrome.
- There are tampons available that are not approved by the FDA, so check before buying the tampons.
Bottom Line
A tampon comes under the list of hygiene products that are protecting women during menstruation. They will help you to deal with periods hassle-free and in a convenient way. Maybe you can give a chance to the tampons instead of sanitary pads but be sure to follow all the procedures before using them.