Despite the and innovation in the feminine hygiene industry, where we’ve seen new products like reusable cups, period-proof underwear, and washable pads, the ongoing battle between pads and tampons has yet to be resolved. Many of these brands have been at odds with each other since their introductions, and it’s taken a long time to figure out which of the two is the right feminine hygiene tool to use for all of our menstruation needs.
Many people have mentioned that using a pad makes them feel more relaxed. Tampons, on the other hand, are beginning to gain popularity among women and are now competing with pads on a level playing field.
Advantages
You don’t have to be a tampon regular to appreciate the benefits of tampons. They’re small enough to fit in a slim pocket or the palm of your hand, making them handy and discrete (not that menstruation is anything to be ashamed of).
Some advantages of tampons include:
- They are swimmable.
- You don’t have to be concerned about them being used (minus the whole issue of tampon strings in swimsuit).
- When they’re fully mounted, you won’t be able to sense them.
Drawbacks
The chance of traumatic shock syndrome is the greatest disadvantage of using tampons (TTS). It’s an uncommon but potentially fatal complication in certain bacterial infections.
It was previously associated with the use of super-absorbent tampons. In the 1980s, manufacturers made modifications to these materials, and at least one line of super-absorbent tampons was discontinued.
TTS cases have decreased since then, with an average 0.8 to 3.4 per 100,000 individuals in the United States now affected. This applies to all menstrual and non-menstrual situations.
- Use the lowest absorbency tampon you can to reduce the chance of TTS.
- Tampons can be changed on a regular basis.
- When the flow is light, switch between tampons and pads.
- Wearing a single tampon all night is not recommended.
Other disadvantages include the discomfort of inserting them, particularly when attempting a new one.
It takes some trial and error to find the right size and form for your flow (i.e., there will be accidents).
They have a significant environmental effect, as millions of tampons and their packaging wind up in landfills throughout the United States each year.
They will irritate and dry out your vaginal area, causing itching and discomfort.
If you’re working out or otherwise on the go, off to the beach you a pool party, or just something to throw in your bag, tampons are the way to go.
Pads, too, have their spot.
Pads are absorbent rectangles that adhere to the interior of the underwear. Since then, they’ve come a long way.
