do guys prefer pads or tampons

Or maybe it's because tampons are sleek and sexy, built like supermodels, and pads are broad-shouldered, aka, "body positive.". Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com. A pad may feel bulky to some girls. If the flow is still too heavy, speaking to a doctor or gynecologist and seeking medical advice may be necessary. We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. And I used to hate 'that time of the month'. A picture of a 15-year-old boy from the US clutching sanitary pads and saying he wants to help girls with periods has gone viral. Theyre reusable and some last up to 6 months with proper care and cleaning. It . These little cotton cylindrical pads that fit inside your vagina are currently the most popular menstrual product. To help you decide which is right for you, we broke down the pros and cons of both options, but remember: ultimately, the decision is yours. No, it is not weird to use pads instead of tampons. An applicator is a plastic or cardboard tube that guides the tampon into the vagina. It is important to remain aware of proper hygiene while swimming on your period and take steps to prevent discomfort and the spread of bacteria. They call menstrual pads wasteful even though used tampon applicators are more popular than grains of sand on a Brooklyn beach. /content/kidshealth/misc/medicalcodes/kids/articles/pads-tampons. Try to use the least-absorbent tampon that you need. Use the lowest absorbency tampon you can. Some women also prefer tampons because they're easier to carry and you . Overall, there is a range of factors that can explain why putting in a tampon can be difficult. Natural pads may be more comfortable and provide healthier options than those containing chemicals. The Best Period Underwear Options for Any Situation. All rights reserved. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Though theres still have a lot of work to do, more and more companies are taking a more inclusive approach in the design and marketing of their products. None of this is to say that menstrual pads are inherently more worthy than tampons or even, necessarily a better choice. Like pads, tampons also come in deodorizing scents, which can irritate the vagina. Despite asbestos not being an ingredient in any tampons wed buy in countries such as Australia or the US, such myths wont die. Pad and tampons might seem like two different species, but both are equally bad when it comes to their affect on mother nature. There are, however, some common considerations that menstruators may want to think about when choosing the best products for them, including safety, comfort, lifestyle, and environmental impact. Sizes vary between brands so getting the right fit may take some (costly) trial and error. Ultimately, what you need to know when it comes to different tampon sizes is that the size refers to its absorbency, not the actual length or width of. However, those who have sensitive internal organs and/or sensitivities to tampon products may find that tampons make cramps more painful. They contribute to a serious waste problem, building up in landfills and sometimes even washing up on beaches. She cautioned, however, to remember never to use a tampon with a higher absorbency than you need, and to make sure to change your tampon every four to eight hours to reduce your risk of TSS. Figures are rubbery but in the United States it is estimated 42% of women use tampons (and likely not exclusively), compared to 62% using pads. Menstrual pads are apparently an extremely confusing product for young men, according to one of the latest viral trends sweeping TikTok right now. Their size makes them small enough to fit in a tiny pocket or in the palm of your hand, so theyre convenient and discreet (not that menstruation is anything to be ashamed of). All Rights Reserved. If you have a pet at home, make sure you throw pads away in a trash can that your pet can't get into. A tampon's absorbent material is pressed tight into a small cylinder shape. You can store tampons before and after use in an opaque plastic bag for privacy. Tampons post a slightly greater risk than pads, as theyve been linked to toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare but potentially fatal infection caused by a buildup of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria in the vagina. You can try doing a skin prick test to figure out if youre allergic to some material in the tampon, and then make sure you go with a different option that is more suitable for your body. It really depends on the person and what they prioritize in their menstrual care, said Siriouthay, who tests menstrual products. Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Smoking Pot Every Day Linked to Heart Risks, Artificial Sweetener Linked to Heart Risks, FDA Authorizes First At-Home Test for COVID and Flu, New Book: Take Control of Your Heart Disease Risk, MINOCA: The Heart Attack You Didnt See Coming, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox. Sometimes, pads are called sanitary pads or sanitary napkins. And if youre totally comfortable, you can choose applicator-free tampons, which are more compact and reduce menstrual waste. Additionally, it could be that the act of putting a tampon in is calming to some people and may temporarily reduce the activity of the hormones controlling your menstrual cycle, resulting in a lightening or stopping of your period. If this doesnt seem to be the issue, then its possible that you might be allergic to the materials within the tampon. Exploring menstrual practices and potential acceptability of reusable menstrual underwear among a Middle Eastern population living in a refugee setting. Free bleeding can be cause for concern, especially if you are going out into the public. The opening of the cervix (at the top of the vagina) is just too tiny for a tampon to get through. On her off time, she's probably watching Ru Paul's Drag Race, traversing NYC for the best donuts, or, most likely, enjoying time in her favorite place in the world: her bed. Pads come in a number of different sizes, from light panty liners to long and thick overnight pads, and in a number of different materials, including synthetics, cotton, and banana leaf or bamboo. How Often Should You Condition Your Hair? For example, if youre going for 6 hours without needing to change your tampon, you may need to switch to a tampon for a lighter flow.. You dont need to be a tampon user to see the obvious pros of tampons. For a lighter flow, get washable pantyliners, and for a heavier flow go for larger maxi pads. Yes, tampons can stop period flow. I prefer pads over tampons for a variety of reasons. They were artificially . Tampons and pads are both disposable products. Dont leave your tampon in for longer than 8 hours! advised Siriouthay. We may hear stigmatizing beliefs about our bodies, such as the notion that tampon use can take our virginity. Wash your hands before and after using a tampon. Tampons can be more convenient for menstruators on the go. We break down why they don't and offer tips for soothing cramps regardless of what's causing them. You can reduce your risk of irritation by changing menstrual pads frequently, and choosing pads made from non-plastic materials. This stops the blood from spilling and leaking. By: Author Olin Wade (Remodel or Move Stuff). Pads are rectangles of absorbent materials that stick to the inside of your underwear. Change to a new tampon at least every 4 to 6 hours. Of all the feminist alleyways one might stumble down online, a noteworthy one is the menstrual community. Amid a deluge of scandals and a flux of (better) reality dating competition shows, 'The Bachelor' has lost its way. Cons. They can accommodate a light to medium flow. To Padable, tampon and pad-users everywhere: we're proud of you too. If youre going to try menstrual sponges, be sure you buy natural sea sponge, as some retailers sell synthetic sponges that are dyed and not necessarily safe. ), hurting the environment (definitely true), and being old virgins (totally accurate, but that had nothing to do with the tampons). Because pads are simpler to use for menstruators who may not be comfortable inserting hygiene products into their vaginas, they are often the first menstrual hygiene products we are introduced to. But they still can't get lost in your body. Tampons are associated with an increased risk of a rare condition called toxic shock syndrome. If you do prefer pads or tampons, however, Siriouthay said there are a few things you can do to make your period more sustainable. Dear Chris, You're not so strange. Heres a look at all the pros and cons of the most popular menstrual products. Calling all Disney adults and 'Titanic' fanatics. The Nemours Foundation. Of all the props, Raccacoonie made a mint. A picture of a 15-year-old boy from the US clutching sanitary pads and saying he wants to help girls with periods has gone viral. Tampons, in their minds, are sleek, sophisticated feminine hygiene products made for modern women who have lots of sex. Alternatively, you can stand to insert a tampon, placing one foot on a higher surface such as a toilet seat. Some people find that using tampons can actually reduce cramps because using a tampon applies gentle pressure on the lower abdomen and can take the focus off the cramp. Have someone take you to the nearest emergency department as soon as possible. If tampon is left in too long, it gives germs a chance to grow and cause infection. Could I have it, too? DOI: Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, And finally, gender-neutral menstrual products are now a thing, safecosmetics.org/get-the-facts/healthandscience/cumulative-exposure-and-feminine-care-products/, health.clevelandclinic.org/is-toxic-shock-syndrome-still-a-risk-3-things-you-should-know/, unicef.org/press-releases/fast-facts-nine-things-you-didnt-know-about-menstruation, youngwomenshealth.org/2013/03/28/period-products/, health.clevelandclinic.org/tired-of-tampons-here-are-pros-and-cons-of-menstrual-cups/, Menstrual Cups Work Just as Well as Tampons and Pads, How to Pick the Best Tampon Size for Your Needs. The amount of flow can vary from person to person and is affected by menstrual cycles, but a flow that is too heavy for a tampon can cause frequent changing, discomfort, and even leaks. Here are some tips and tricks to help you find the answer to 'Wordle' #622. Plus, today you can find reusable cups, washable pads, and period-proof panties, among other things. That includes non-menstrual cases, too. Its a rare but life-threatening complication of certain types of bacterial infections. Tampons expand as they absorb fluid, pushing against the vaginal canal, and this can actually contribute to cramp pain, said Siriouthay. Menstrual cups can be worn for 4-12 hours, depending on flow and can generally hold more than a normal tampon. Ultimately, it is up to the female swimmer to decide which option works best for her individual needs. Changing pads many times in a day is easier than tampons. Again, regular changing usually can manage any odor concerns. The data (probably) doesn't lie. They offer greater freedom to exercise, swim, and play sports than pads. Each of these options is reusable, meaning they have less of an environmental impact than disposable pads and tampons. Other . Heavy flows and cramps can be a common experience during your periods. Comfort is a personal preference, but there are some factors you may want to consider when choosing between tampons vs pads. 1. If mum handed you a pad that very first time, you likely kept using them. A new study found that menstrual cups were just as good, if not better, as disposable tampons and pads at preventing leaks. If the tampon isnt taken out and changed regularly enough, then the tampon can get saturated, leaving it unable to absorb anymore. Jose Garcia, from Miami, Florida, posted his message on Instagram . You may have a thick, white discharge that looks like cottage cheese. If youre a woman who enjoys this activity, tampons may be a better option. Consider your comfort, budget, convenience, and any other variables that matter to you when choosing your products. Additionally, it is much easier to use a pad versus a tampon, especially when it comes to disposal of the product. Tampons also come in different sizes meant for both heavy and light blood flows. Tampons are a good option because they are small, nearly invisible, and swim-safe but they can be hard to insert and may carry the risk of vaginal irritation or toxic shock syndrome. There could be a few reasons why your tampon is not absorbing blood. While tampons can be a convenient option to wear during the day, they do carry the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) a rare but potentially severe complication caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. And they challenge our cultures emphasis on unsustainable, single-use products. Can a tampon get lost inside my body? Tampons are cylindrical vagina inserts made out of cotton, rayon, or a mix of both materials. Copyright 20102023, The Conversation Media Group Ltd. Chinese Olympic viewers were shocked Fu Yuanhui was swimming while she had her period since many have never heard of tampons. Lastly, there may be religious or cultural concerns that discourage or prohibit the use of tampons. When you try one for the first time, wash your hands well, follow the directions carefully, and be sure to relax. Pads, meanwhile, are not associated with TSS. I had enough reasons to hate them. I ended up finding out on my first visit to the gynecologist that my vaginal opening is pretty small, which explained to me why tampons never felt right. They are also especially great for overnight use. But a small, angry, and vocal minority of tampon users outshout everyone else. Some tampons have tampon applicators, thin plastic applicators or cardboard tubes that help users insert the tampons. Additionally, pads do not require any application nor do they pose any risk of irritation or injury associated with insertion. You cant swim in them. Pads are much more environmentally friendly to dispose of since they are made of biodegradable materials. Pros. In truth, virginity is a cultural category that some people use to define whether weve had sex. Sometimes, pads are called sanitary pads or sanitary napkins. You should not use pads with fragrances as they're unnecessary and can irritate your vagina. Another study found that women who used tampons and had "average-to-heavy . I usually wear pads, just rather have the . The first modern tampons, similar to those we use today, were invented in 1929 by a physician named Dr. Earle Haas. You have to wash them, which can be an issue if you need to change them on the go. With maxi pads, you can never feel 100% confident that your pad won't show or that it won't leak. In China as a developing nation with a very different culture around periods it makes sense that tampon use is low. Woke, trauma dumping, queerbaiting, petfluencer, and other extremely online words appeared in new or revised entries. Additionally, the hymen can sometimes be a barrier when first attempting to put in a tampon due to it being a thin membrane-like tissue located at the opening of the vagina. Pros. Tampon usage also retains an ick factor. Talk to your doctor or another healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns. Finding the right size and type for your flow takes some trial and error (i.e., there will be accidents). When selecting a tampon, its important to choose one that is suitable for your individual needs. Your email address will not be published. Given their way, this sisterhood might even deify Chinese Olympic bronze medallist Fu Yuanhui. Tampons are a great option for women who swim or do other athletic activities. (2018). When you change your pads regularly, you stop harmful germs called bacteria from growing in them. Tampons and pads are two of the most common menstrual products, and there is an unending debate about which is better for your time of the month. Things can get messy because you have to use your fingers to fish it out of your vagina, then dump and rinse it. Maxi pads, like tampons, are made of absorbent materials that soak up menstrual blood. The upfront cost is more than regular underwear. (Take it from someone whos endured the horror of watching her pad float on by while swimming with friends.). There are several different factors that go into every menstruators product choice. Pads are directly placed onto the underwear and are designed to catch and absorb menstrual blood. 3 toxic shock syndrome facts. Times have changed. We were accused of being "too afraid" to use tampons (hello, toxic shock syndrome! They come in lots of options to accommodate changes in your flow and activities. If youre prone to waking up to sheets that resemble a crime scene, then the biggest pad with wings is probably at the top of the list. Just as Americans are often horrified to arrive in Australia and discover that we mostly go applicatorless, for many women even those who have read the Female Eunuch there just isnt a desire to get closer to ones uterus lining. Next up: her own show. Id also often hear Ive never used tampons confessions. (2016). Overall . Are you comfortable inserting something inside yourself, or would you rather let the blood collect into a pad? In high school people didnt talk about periods much, but when they did it was always about tampons. But when the sticky backing pulls at your pubes, its back to tampons again. Review the pros and cons for pads and tampons and decide which one works best for based on your lifestyle and personal choice., Cleveland Clinic: "Are Scented Tampons and Pads Bad for You? Many girls worry the tampon might get lost inside them. Cumulative exposure and feminine care products. It's fully inside your body with the exception . Also, no matter how thin your pad is, it may be visible under tight or minimal clothing., Pros. I didn't turn gay or grow a vagina. Today, tampons typically consist of a small cotton stick with a string attached to one end. We've rounded up popular options based on a range of needs, whether you're looking for a. Padable told me. Easy to use: Pads are easier to use than tampons. Tampon users and pad users can get along. Some tips to remember for safe use tampons include: There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to menstrual care products. Double! Firstly, you might be using a tampon with a lower absorbency than is required for your menstrual flow. But a tampon looks like a small tube. Dont be afraid to mix it up to accommodate the stages of your cycle. "I am PROUD of my pads!" Menstrual cups are flexible devices made from silicone or rubber that are inserted into the vagina, with the aim of collecting menstrual blood. Many girls start out using pads, but might want to use tampons when they do sports or go swimming. Wash your hands before and after using a tampon. Insert the tampon: Gripping the applicator with your thumb and middle finger, push the smaller tube of the applicator with your index finger to move the tampon into the vagina. From Super Light (half to a full tampon), Moderate-Heavy (2-3 tampons), to Maxi 24 hours (10 tampons), and levels in between, you can find exactly what you need for every day of your period. This will help reduce the spread of bacteria. Changing pads often can cut down on any odor. All of these features make pads the preferred choice for many people. Some tampons dont have applicators, and menstruators simply push these into their vaginas using their fingers. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 2023 PUBLIC GOODS - All Rights Reserved. Free bleeding is simply the practice of not using any kind of period protection, such as tampons or pads, to absorb menstrual blood. Ultimately, it is your choice as to which type of protection you prefer. You may have trouble with fitting the cup if you have, Youll need to give it a thorough wash after each cycle, Though cheaper in the long term, the initial cost is roughly $25 to $40, depending on the brand, Some cups contain latex, so be sure to read the label if you have a, TTS from menstrual cups is possible when not used as directed, want to have sex during your period without the bleeding, are looking to reduce the environmental footprint of your cycle. Prior to joining Mashable, Heather wrote regularly for UPROXX and GOOD Magazine, was published in The Daily Dot and VICE, and had her work featured in Entertainment Weekly, Jezebel, Mic, and Gawker. Its important to note that not all cups are reusable, so be sure to read the label if you prefer a reusable cup. Pads offer a better option for those with heavier flow days, which may require changing more frequently than tampons. That depends. How often should I change my tampon? To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we: We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness. In some places online one wonders whether anything else is ever discussed. You cant wear pads as easily when youre swimming. Impact of currently marketed tampons and menstrual cups on Staphylococcus aureus growth and toxic shock syndrome toxin 1 production in vitro. Since theyre worn on the underwear, pads are known to shift around, and you can bleed on your clothes and undies, said Siriouthay. Here are some tips and tricks to help you find the answer to "Wordle" #623. We may earn commission from the links on this page. Deciding which one to use doesnt have to be hard. Some have extra material on the sides (called "wings") that fold over the edges of your underwear to better hold the pad in place and prevent leaks. Learn how IUDs can affect your menstrual flow and what you can do about it. Free bleeding is having your period without wearing tampons, pads, or any other fluid barriers. Unlike tampons, pad users wear them outside of their vaginas, usually using adhesive to stick them to underwear. Here are pros and cons of menstrual cups. But what is better: tampons vs pads? Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. ", Cosmopolitan UK: "A doctor answers all your questions about Toxic Shock Syndrome. They arent very discreet thanks to the very obvious sound of pulling them off your underwear. Where they differ are . Tampons, on the other hand, are designed to be inserted into the vagina during menstruation and absorb the menstrual flow. A yeast infection is a fungal infection that can cause itching, burning, redness in your vagina. If using a tampon, it is important to choose the right size, as well as keep up with changing and not letting the same tampon sit in the body for too long. Tampons should typically be used for no longer than 8 hours, and sometimes an hour or two less than that depending on your flow. Even though pads are thinner than ever, theyre more likely to be visible under certain types of clothing. Disposable Tampons and Pads. You can't see it as you would with a pad, so be sure to remember when it's time to change to prevent spotting and leaks on your underwear. However, tampons can be a great option for those who are more active and want to enjoy activities such as swimming without having to worry about leaks. It's possible to forget you have a tampon in and insert another one. Mashable is a registered trademark of Ziff Davis and may not be used by third parties without express written permission. Wash your hands and get into a comfortable position. Ultimately, the choice is up to you. If a person experiences a heavy flow, it may be better to use a combination of tampons and pads, with tampons as the primary form of absorption and pads as extra absorption in the event of leaks. In this article, well break down everything you need to know about the differences between pads and tampons. "Super" generally means that variety is for heavy flow. It's unclear how tampons came to enjoy such prestige, even if that power doesn't translate into numbers. Tampons are also a better choice for swimming. In the broader world, however and most certainly in the blokey realm of professional sport to bring blood out of the bathroom and into a mixed-company, live Olympic broadcast was outright shocking. Specially designed for heavy flow days, these pads feature special FlexFoam technology for a thin and flexible pad you can barely feel. They come in different absorbencies to accommodate light to heavy periods. Public Goods asked Maddy Siriouthay, co-founder and Chief Content Officer at Ovee, a brand promoting health for people with vaginas, about the differences between tampons vs pads, and the pros and cons of each. The tampon is put inside the vagina and absorbs the blood before it comes out. Theyre also great if your new to the world of menstruation or have a hard time wearing tampons. The answer could be a mix of the two. This string is meant to sit outside your body so you can use it to pull it out when your tampon is full and needs changing., How do I choose the right tampon for me? But while Chinese women have embraced the convenience and comfort of the modern, disposable sanitary pad since its introduction to the Chinese mainland in the 1980s, tampons which by nature allow women to participate in more strenuous activities than pads have yet to catch on. What's the Link Between Tampons and Cramps? This makes them great for heavier days and overnight use, as well as saving time and money on the need for frequent change. Choosing between tampons and pads comes down to what your preferences are. Heather was the Web Trends reporter at Mashable NYC. Heres what you need to know about how to insert them, clean them, and more. May be better for heavy periods: Women and girls who have heavy periods have to change their menstrual hygiene product more often than others. Then, wrap it in toilet paper, and throw it in the trash. They each have pros and cons that could make them a great option for certain lifestyles and an inconvenience for some. Its also possible that you could be using the same tampon for too long. Tampons are inserted into the body and expand to hold the menstrual blood. Pads can't be worn while you're swimming or taking a bath, while tampons are an option. Pads can also have "wings." They are comfortable and even recommended for women who engage in exercises like running, dancing, swimming, jogging, etc. Thats something Siriouthay, who has menorrhagia, knows firsthand. If you have a lighter flow, you may have more flexibility in your choice of product. Before you ask: Yes, it's worth the price. No woman alive would be unaware of those will I still be a virgin if I use tampons? concerns. With proper care and cleaning, a menstrual cup can last up to 10 years, making them a great economical choice. If your periods are heavy, the cup may runneth over long before the 12 hours. Jose Garcia, from Miami, Florida, posted his message on Instagram . It's no different than getting her cold medicine and soup when she . The labelling on your pad's packaging will usually tell you details of the size and whether its right for light or heavy period blood flow.. You should change your tampon every 4 to 6 hours. And for women with a particularly heavy flow, tampons are oftentimes perceived as less reliable. Female swimmers will often take precautions when they experience their period while swimming, such as wearing special period-proof swimwear, using special tampons designed for swimming, or using a menstrual cup. Pads are rectangle-shaped pieces of absorbent material which you can stick onto the inside of your underwear. But between these options, and the classic tampons and pads, menstruators today have so much to choose from. This can cause gray, white, or green discharge, a fishy-smelling odor, itching, and burning during urination. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Tampons are a great option for women who swim or do other athletic activities. ", Mayo Clinic: "Bacterial vaginosis," "Toxic shock syndrome," "Yeast infection (vaginal). Pads are rectangles of absorbent material that you stick to the inside of your underwear. Hemp Oil For Dogs: Benefits, Safety Tips, Dosage and More, My Top 11 Favorite Movies About Wellness and Sustainability. While diva cups produce minimal amounts of waste, the average woman trashes up to 250 - 300 lbs(Opens in a new tab) of "pads, applications, and tampons" over the course of their lifetime. A small minority reject the binary and use both tampons and maxi-pad, or even diva cups and period underwear, alternating based on the flow of their period or how sexy they're feeling that day. Moreover, many people find pads to be more cost effective than tampons since they generally need to be replaced less frequently. When was the first time you sat out something you really wanted to do because you had your period? It also offers up to 10-hours of leak-free protection to . If you have any symptoms of TSS, you should get immediate medical help. Yes, pads usually hold more blood than tampons. If you have any concerns or questions about your period, talk to your mom, dad, or doctor. Choosing the right menstrual product can be particularly challenging for people with heavy flows. Don't flush it in the toilet even tampons that say they're flushable can still cause problems in some toilets. Getting toxic shock syndrome through tampon usage is rare, however. Even though I didn't have my period at the time, I wanted to impress the other girls and show that I, too, was one of the cool ones, capable of getting knocked up by one of the popular loud boys. (Unless it's the first day of their period, in which case, please take a chair. Pad users, in their minds, are blind to social norms and addicted to the pleasures of the napkin, a disposable mattress for the vagina. Symptoms of toxic shock syndrome are a high fever, vomiting or diarrhea, severe muscle aches, weakness, dizziness, or a rash that looks like a sunburn.

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