There are various period products that women can flexibly choose from, particularly sanitary pads, menstrual cups, and tampons. In the Philippines, women prefer sanitary pads because, aside from tradition, it is also the most accessible and available in the market. However, have you ever wondered about trying to use tampons? Did you ever consider it? Were you overthinking, perhaps hesitant?
In this article, you will discover the benefits of using tampons which could help you survive your monthly struggles. Who knows, this article may be the reason you would switch or the pending sign you have long waited for in your life!
What are tampons?
Tampons in the Philippines are, so far, not too familiar. But similar to sanitary pads that most women use, it is made up of a highly-absorbent material to provide consumer confidence from the risk of menstrual leakage. Remember that it is a disposable product, so it is advised to throw it away immediately after use.
Tampons absorb menstrual blood inside the vagina, formed in a cylindrical shape to fit it in quickly. This is the same concept as a plug blocking the menstrual flow while soaking all the fluid to prevent it from coming out.
Applicators for tampons may be made of plastic, similar to a syringe design. The applicator comprises the “outer” or barrel tube and the “inner” or plunger tube. When used, tampons expand in different ways. For example, applicator tampons tend to get longer, while digital tampons get wider. More importantly, they have strings attached at the end for removal.
Reasons For Switching To Tampons
Ladies, there are a lot of possibilities that you can open when you switch to tampons. It may seem like a small step, but It could help you out during the hectic days of your period.
You don’t feel it, but it’s there.
Unlike sanitary pads placed outside the vagina, which give discomfort and anxiety of possible leaking, tampons are inserted right inside the menstrual passageway. Trust me; you won’t feel it inside. While using tampons, you don’t have to worry about the possible dislocation of sanitary pads, so you can be carefree in moving freely as if you’re not on a period. You don’t want to miss out on the fun activities. In the latter part of the discussion, you will know how to use them properly.
It has a variety of absorbing power.
You can vary your tampon of choice depending on your flow. During the first days, you may need a high absorbency during low absorbency on the last days of your period. This is essential because women experience different flow patterns, so it can accommodate a wide range of conditions.
It is convenient.
Tampons are so small that they can fit into your hands and even your pockets. They provide convenience and discreteness (although menstruation isn’t to be ashamed of), but it is a thing to consider, especially for more concerned ladies. Because of its handiness, you can keep it wherever you go, so you can change it whenever needed.
How do I use tampons?
Are you one of the ladies afraid to switch to tampons because you don’t know how to use them? We got your back. Here are the step-by-step processes you can follow to utilize your tampons properly.
Wash your hands
This is a crucial step to prevent the spreading of bacteria and fungi from your hands. You may want to keep your environment sterile to keep away from infection threats.
Take deep breaths
Relax. If you are a first-timer, you may have anxieties that it could hurt or eventually harm you. Trust me; it takes time to be ready. But once you are there, the more relaxed you are, the easier it will be.
Explore your comfortable position
You could find that squatting, raising one leg on the toilet, or standing help, but do whatever seems most comfortable. The objective here is to ensure that your vaginal opening can be reached. Do not be concerned because you will become accustomed to it.
Insert the tampon carefully.
Using your dominant hand, push the tampon with your index finger, and your middle finger and thumb on the grip. If necessary, you may also put a small amount on the tip of the tampon applicator for smoother insertion. Remember to relax while executing this step—breathe in, breathe out.
For taking away, gently pull the string
Tampons contain a string attached to one end, which allows them to be inserted and removed from the vaginal canal. Pulling the line carefully will allow you to remove the tampon. When your tampon is moist from absorbing the maximum amount of menstrual flow it can, it’s simpler to remove.
Dispose of them properly.
Do not flush used tampons. Although some say it is “flushable,” it could still pose problems in your toilet. Instead, wrap them in toilet paper and dispose of them in the garbage. In this simple way, you can also help minimize environmental waste.
Are tampons safe to use?
Tampons are composed of cotton and rayon fibers, regulated by the FDA. Materials are intrinsically evaluated and reviewed for absorbency, strength, and overall safeness for women’s health.
The FDA considers tampons as medical devices. Tampons approved by the FDA are designed to be used once before being discarded. Never use a tampon more than once.
You may need to change your tampons every 4 to 8 hours, even if the period is light. Leaving it inside your vagina results in toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare but dangerous disease associated with using tampons. However, the safest approach to using tampons is to change them frequently and use ones with less absorbency to prevent TSS.
Summing It All Up
Tampons are helpful products that could aid your menstrual problems. It is comfortable, convenient, and accessible to use every time you would need it. They are safe and effective when used correctly—don’t forget to change them every 4-8 hours to prevent TSS. Switching to tampons will require a lot of mental preparation, but you shouldn’t be afraid to consider it because it’s better for your health.
