Tampax Pearl Plastic Tampons, Super Absorbency, Scented, 18 Count
- LeakGuard braid helps stop leaks before they happen
- Smooth plastic applicator and rounded tip allows for comfortable insertion
- Contoured Anti-Slip Grip makes the applicator easy to hold and position
- CleanGuard layer surrounds the core for an extra layer of protection
- Discreet, purse-resistant wrapper with easy-to-open tabs
Absorbents: main doubts and misconceptions
Tampons and your body
Does it hurt to put on or take off a tampon?It shouldn't hurt. You may want to try different types of tampons, with or without an applicator, to see which one you prefer. Sometimes it is a little uncomfortable to put on or take off a tampon simply because your vagina is dry or your flow is too light.
Using a small amount of water-based lubricant should help to relieve dryness and facilitate the slip of the tampon or applicator. If you notice a feeling of dryness and discomfort when removing the tampon, try changing to a lighter absorption type. If you continue to experience vaginal pain when using tampons, consult healthcare professionals.
Should I feel a tampon inside me?
No. When a tampon is inserted correctly (pushed far enough in), you will not be able to feel it. Tampons are designed to be used on the top of the vagina, the part farthest from the vaginal opening. If you are feeling the tampon, try to push it in a little more.
Can a tampon "get lost" inside me?
No. The cervix (at the end of the vaginal canal) has only a very small opening to allow blood or sperm to pass. If you are having trouble removing the tampon, try to force it as if you are about to poop. Crouching instead of sitting or standing can help. Move your fingers inside the vagina and try to feel the top and back. As soon as you feel the tampon or its thread, hold it between your fingers and pull it out.
Can the tampon "fall off"?
Normally, no. When a tampon is inserted correctly, that is, it has been pushed in far enough, your vagina naturally holds it in place, even if you are running or doing something active. If you are using too much force when pooping, the tampon may fall off. If this happens, put in a new one.
Can I lose my virginity by inserting a tampon?
No . Virginity is not a physical or medical thing. It is a cultural idea about which many people have different definitions and opinions. The concepts of virginity are sometimes linked to the idea that your vaginal opening is covered by a membrane, commonly referred to as a hymen, which is "broken" by vaginal sex.
The vaginal crown (also known as a hymen) consists of thin folds of mucous tissue located between 1 and 2 centimeters just inside the vaginal opening (1). Anna Knöfel Magnusson of RFSU (Swedish Association for Sexuality Education) wrote about this in the book Vaginal Crown: Myths surrounding virginity :
Each crown looks different and differs in size, color and shape. It is slightly pink, almost transparent, and may resemble the petals of a flower, a puzzle or a half moon. In the vast majority of cases, it is elastic and stretches. Very rarely, folds of mucous tissue can cover the entire vaginal opening. In that case, it may be necessary to consult a gynecologist to open the vaginal crown and thus release menstrual blood, to allow the insertion of a tampon or for sex by penetration.
The vaginal crown can be gradually decreased by basic daily physical activity, not just by inserting things (such as tampons, menstrual pads, toys or fingers) into the vagina. Hormonal changes that occur as people change during puberty can also change the shape and flexibility of the vaginal crown (2).
Regardless of whether you use tampons or not, your vaginal crown (if you've had one in the first place) will wear out over time. The anatomy and purpose of the vaginal crown are still not well understood, and further research is needed.
Tampons and your health
Will tampons cause me toxic shock syndrome?
Probably not, but it is important to be informed. Toxic shock syndrome (SCT) is a rare condition that affects about 1 in 100,000 people who menstruate (3). More than half of the reported cases of SCT are associated with the use of tampons, but it can also affect people of any age, including men and children. Using a tampon for a long period of time (more than 8 hours) is associated with SCT (4). The symptoms of SCT start suddenly and can get worse quickly.
SCT can be fatal if not treated immediately, so it is important to know the symptoms (5, 6):
- High temperature (fever) of 39ºC or more
- Flu-like symptoms such as headache, chills, muscle pain, sore throat and cough
- Feeling and feeling sick
- Diarrhea
- A rash similar to a generalized sunburn
- Redness of the whites of the eyes, lips and tongue
- Dizziness or fainting
- Breathing difficulties
- Confusion, drowsiness, loss of consciousness
SCT is a medical emergency. Although these symptoms can be caused by a disease other than SCT, it is important to contact healthcare professionals or go to a hospital as soon as possible if you have a combination of these symptoms. It is very unlikely that you will have SCT, but these symptoms should not be ignored. If you have severe symptoms or if your symptoms are rapidly getting worse, go to the nearest hospital or call an ambulance immediately.
How can I reduce the chances of suffering from SCT?
Use low-absorbent tampons and change them more often , avoiding leaving it inside you for more than 8 hours. Alternatively, you can use a different menstrual product, such as pads or a menstrual cup. Menstrual collectors offer no risk of SCT. There was only one documented case of SCT related to the use of a menstrual collector that happened because the collector scraped the inside of the vagina during insertion (7).
When to change the tampon
How often should I change the tampon?
The best way to know if the tampon needs to be changed is to gently pull on its thread. If he starts to leave easily, it's time to change; otherwise, you can wait a little longer. Do not leave the tampon inserted for more than 8 hours, as this increases the risk of developing toxic shock syndrome (8).
A fully filled mini tampon can contain up to 3 ml of fluid, while a super fully filled tampon can contain up to 12 ml (9, 10). The normal amount of blood loss from menstruation is between 5 mL to 80 mL (11).
If you see that you are filling a tampon every two hours, this is considered heavy menstrual bleeding and should be brought to the attention of healthcare professionals.
Can you pee with a tampon inserted?
Yes. You do not need to change the tampon every time you pee, but you may want to move the cord to the side so that it does not get soaked. But this is only for your personal comfort, since you are unlikely to have health problems when accidentally peeing on the tampon thread.
Some people poop while using a tampon, while others choose to change the tampon after they poop. Both options are your choice. When you poop while having a tampon inserted, be careful not to get the yarn dirty. The bacteria that live in your intestines can cause infections in the urethra and bladder (12).
Can you throw tampons in the toilet and flush?
It is better not to do this. Tampons are made to absorb liquids and expand, so they can clog toilets and pipes, especially if the plumbing is old, the toilet is low-flow or a septic tank. Most tampons are not biodegradable and even those that are do not break down in the sewer system. For the sake of your plumbing and the environment, the safest option is to wrap the tampon (and applicator) in toilet paper and throw it in the trash.
It's okay to use tampons when ...
Can I use tampons for my first period?
Yes. If you want, you can use tampons from the beginning of your first period. Be sure to check the instructions or ask a friend, family or health professional for tips. Choose the right absorbency for your flow (mini or small for low flow, normal or super if the flow is more intense).
If you have trouble inserting the tampon, you can try using one with an applicator or placing a small amount of water-based lubricant on the tampon to make it easier to slip.
Can I shower with a tampon inserted?
Yes. You can use a tampon in the shower or bath. Tampons (and menstrual pads) are also great options for swimming during menstruation.
If you can't or don't want to use them, there are some other options as well: if your flow is light, you can use absorbent swimsuits or a dark colored suit to prevent stains. The waterproof absorbent swimsuit looks like the bottom of a normal bikini, but it has a hidden leak-proof lining that helps to absorb menstrual blood. You can use a pad before and after swimming.
Do tampons have an expiration date?
Yes. The shelf life of tampons is about five years, as long as they are kept in their packaging and stored in a dry environment. They are hygienic, but not sterile, so if they are stored in a humid location - such as the bathroom - bacteria and mold can arise.
The most important thing to pay attention to is the packaging: have you had an "emergency tampon" rolling in your bag for weeks and the packaging is damaged? If so, don't use it. A moldy or dirty tampon can cause a vaginal infection. If you notice any itching or irritation after using tampons, consult your healthcare professional.
Is it okay to use tampons if you have an IUD?
Yes. Immediately after inserting an IUD , you may experience some bleeding. Do not use tampons for this bleeding. After this insertion bleeding is over, it is okay to use tampons or menstrual pads if you have an IUD. The IUD wires are only a few centimeters out of the cervix, so they should not interfere with the insertion and removal of the tampon.







