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All That You Need to Know Regarding Tampons

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Harleen Kaur

This comprehensive guide will help you learn everything about tampons, from super tampons and their use to your fears and myths regarding them and much more.

Does inserting or removing a tampon hurt?

No. It should not hurt if done properly but may sometimes do so owing to excessive vaginal dryness. You can overcome it either by using a water-based lubricant or switching to the best tampons suited for light flow.

Can inserting a tampon cause me to lose my virginity?

No. ‘Virginity’ is not a medical or physical concept but only a cultural idea. Usually, it is associated with the breaking of the hymen which covers the opening of the vagina. However, it can break during any kind of physical activity, and many women are even born without it. Also, whether you use a tampon or not, it usually wears off eventually. So, a tampon has nothing to do with virginity.

Is it okay to start using tampons from my first period?

Yes. If you want to use tampons from the beginning of your periods, you can very well use them. Just make sure to read the instructions on the pack carefully and take help from a friend or family member to guide you with it. You must also choose the right absorbency of tampons viz. regular for normal flow and super tampons for heavy flow. Also, you can use a tampon with an applicator for easier insertion.

Is it normal to feel a tampon inside the vagina?

No. A tampon needs to be inserted deep inside the vagina, far away from its opening. So, if you feel it inside, you can try pushing it inwards a little more.

Can a tampon get lost inside me?

No. A tampon cannot get lost in your abdomen. The cervix or the opening of the vagina on the outer end is too tiny, and only wide enough to pass blood or semen through it. So, it stays inside your vagina until you remove it. If however, you find it difficult to take it out, try squatting and pushing it out as if to poop, and use your cleaned fingers to pull it out.

Can a tampon fall out on its own?

No. The absorbent fibres in the tampon swell up as soon as they come in contact with the fluid so the tampon automatically sits well inside and doesn’t slide out on its own.

How often do I need to change a tampon?

You must change your tampon every 5-6 hours. Leaving it in for longer than this duration can breed bacteria leading to infection.

What can happen if I forget to remove a tampon?

If you accidentally leave a tampon inside your vagina, it can lead to bacterial infection. The biggest risk of it is TSS or Toxic Shock Syndrome which is a potentially life-threatening but a fairly rare condition. Its symptoms include fever, headache, dizziness, confusion, body rashes, nausea etc. So, if you have been using a tampon and notice any of these then you must immediately consult your OBGYN.

How can I avoid TSS?

You can do so by regularly changing tampons and always choosing the lightest absorbency tampon over super tampons if your flow can be managed with it.

Can I sleep with a tampon in?

Yes. As long as you do not exceed the time of using it more than 8 hours.

How can I decide which size of tampon should I use?

Tampons come in different sizes, viz. small for light flow, regular for normal or medium flow and super tampons for heavy flow. You can pick any of these to suit your flow pattern.

Can I pee with a tampon in?

Yes. Just make sure to move the tampon string away from the pee stream.

Can I shower or swim with a tampon in?

Yes. Tampons are better than the best period pads for this very reason as they offer the freedom to stay active, swim, play a sport and shower even while using them.

Do tampons have an expiry date?

Yes. Tampons usually have a shelf life of about five years.

Is it safe to use a tampon if I have an IUD?

Yes. After getting an IUD inserted you may experience some bleeding. You must not use tampons for this but after this bleeding ceases, you can use them as usual.

Is it safe to use tampons daily?

No. They can dry your vagina and cause infections. Instead, try using panty liners to absorb the daily discharge.

Are tampons better than pads for periods?

It is all about your perception, needs and convenience. While some prefer the comfort of pads, others adore the freedom that tampons provide.

Takeaway

With the best tampons and the right knowledge to use them properly, you can make your periods healthier and happier. 

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Harleen Kaur
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