Menstruation or periods is a natural process that denotes the normal progression of life and indicates a good and healthy reproductive system. However, many girls just starting with their periods can often find it confusing to choose the right period product and may also have many misconceptions regarding their usage. This article addresses some of them related to the use of menstrual tampons. Here, we will help you understand when to use them, how to use them, the precautions to take, and if they are suitable for you.
What are Menstrual Tampons
Tampons are simple absorbent devices used to soak up period blood and thereby keep you dry and comfortable and prevent leakage and staining. They are very small cylinder-shaped devices that are formulated using highly absorbent fibres of cotton or rayon which can quickly and effectively absorb fluid once they get in contact with it. You can use a tampon by inserting it inside your vaginal canal where it sits and soaks the menstrual fluid.
How to Use Menstrual Tampons
Unlike sanitary napkins which need to be pasted on the gusset of your panty for use, a tampon needs to be used internally. To use it, you can either squat on the floor or prop a leg up on the toilet seat. Your muscles should be relaxed. Then take the wrappings off the tampon and gently slide it up inside your vagina until you can no longer feel it. You can take the help of the cardboard or plastic applicator which usually comes with them to guide your way inside. Here it will stay inside to soak period blood and thus swell up to act as a plug preventing leaks.
When you need to change it, simply tug at the string which is attached to its end and your tampon will slide out. Now wrap it up in tissue and throw it away in a waste bin.
How Old Do You Need to Be to Use Menstrual Tampons
There is no age to start using a tampon. You can begin using it from your first period itself, which is in some cases as young as ten years of age. It is only a matter of comfort, convenience and preference. If you find using tampons easy enough and are usually more active, playing sports or engaging in any other physical activities, then tampons can be especially helpful for you. You only need to take care to invest in the best tampons suitable for you, know the right way to use them and practice hygiene while using them.
How to Choose the Best Tampons for Yourself
You can find a variety of tampons in the market- different brands, and available in different sizes. You must choose the right one suitable for your specific needs to be safe and comfortable. First of all, make sure you only pick a reputable tampon brand to ensure you get quality products. Well-known and trustworthy brands usually offer well-researched designs and utilise safe and high-quality ingredients to devise their products.
In addition to this, also take care to choose the size of a tampon carefully. The size of a tampon refers to its absorbency capacity. Most brands offer three distinct sizes to accommodate different flow levels, viz. small, regular and super tampons. While a small and regular tampon is for low and normal or medium-intensity flows, you can use super tampons for heavy periods.
Things to Keep in Mind While Using Menstrual Tampons
Following are some things you must take care of while using tampons:
● Always change your tampon regularly, preferably every 5-8 hours.
● Never leave a tampon in for longer than 8 hours as it can lead to infections and may increase your chance of contracting TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome) which is a rare but deadly condition.
● Use the correct size of tampon suitable for your flow level. Never use tampons for heavy periods or super tampons if your flow is low or medium or if you can manage using lower capacities of tampons. Doing otherwise can again put you at risk of TSS and vaginal tears.
● Always throw a tampon in a dustbin and never try to flush it as it can clog the toilet.
● You can wear a tampon while swimming or bathing as well.
● You can also sleep with your tampon in, as long as the time does not exceed 8 hours.
● If you are an especially active individual and indulge in high-intensity sports then it is best to opt for special active tampons for maximum protection.
Which is Better for You- Sanitary Napkins or Tampons
This is an age-old debate but the truth is no one product is better than the other. It is all a matter of your comfort. If you are more comfortable using sanitary pads and find using a tampon intimidating, then go for the former. But if you find tampons to be more convenient to use as they are more discreet, offer better leakage protection and allow you to stay active, then you must opt for tampons. The matter is all about your personal choice to fit your needs, preferences and convenience.
Conclusion
There is no age or time to use menstrual tampons. You can use them to stay dry, comfy and protected from leakage and staining during your first and any of the following periods. So, if you are someone who loves staying active, then tampons are your go-to products.
