What are tampons? How to use it?

To clean during the menstrual cycle, most women often use tampons. However, the use of tampons can cause some discomforts and disadvantages such as: itching, tightness and restriction of movement… To overcome these problems, tampons can be replaced by tampons. This is a product similar to sanitary napkins but more compact and convenient. Here, let's learn about Tampon with SignsSymptomsList!

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1. What is a tampon?

Tampon is a feminine hygiene product designed for use during menstruation as a method of protection. It is inserted into the vagina with an applicator or with your fingers. Tampons are made of absorbent material, which can absorb menstrual blood when inside the vagina. They are regulated as medical devices, used only once, should not be reused many times.

Tampons are made of cotton, rayon, or a mixture of the two. The absorbent fibers used today are manufactured using a chlorine-free bleaching process. This also prevents products from having dangerous levels of dioxins (a type of pollutant found in the environment).

2. How to use tampon?

2.1. How to insert tampons

To insert the tampon inside the vagina, you can use an applicator or your finger. The first time you use a tampon, it can be difficult to insert it into your vagina, make sure you find a comfortable position and feel relaxed. Feeling tense or tense can cause the muscles in the vagina to tense up and can make it more difficult to insert it.

What are tampons?  How to use it?

How to insert tampons

Whether you put it on or take it off, it's important that you wash and dry your hands properly. If you take the tampon out of the pack and you drop it on the floor, throw it away and use a new one. Using dirty tampons can lead to infection.

  • Keep a comfortable position. Placing your feet on the toilet seat or squatting helps create a comfortable position and allows for easy insertion of the tampon.
  • Hold the end of the tampon between your fingers where the tampon is recessed. The rope should be visible and away from the body.
  • Otherwise, keep the labia majora (the skin around the vaginal opening) open and place the tampon in the opening.
  • You can now insert it into the vaginal opening by slightly upward so that the tampon is facing your back.
  • Once the tampon is in the vagina, you can use your index finger to push it in.
  • Make sure the string is hanging outside your vagina, so you can remove it later by pulling on the string.

2.2. Some notes when inserting tampons

If you're using a tampon with a tip attached, it's easier to put on. All you have to do is follow the instructions on the packaging. If you've fitted the tampon properly, you won't be able to feel it inside you. If it doesn't feel comfortable, it means you did not install it correctly, remove the old one and try again with a new one.

Using a mirror is helpful when you're trying to put on a tampon for the first time. It allows you to see the exact location of the vaginal opening. You can also try applying a small amount of vaginal lubricant to the end of the tampon to help it glide in easily.

If you can't insert a tampon after several tries, make an appointment with your doctor. The reason could be that you were born with a very small hole in your hymen, making it impossible for you to insert a tampon. This is only true in about 2% of teenagers, but it can be a problem.

>> See more: 10 signs of coming period that you should know

3. Tampons and toxic shock syndrome (TSS)

TSS stands for Toxic Shock Syndrome. It's rare but a dangerous infection if you get it. It can occur in women who use tampons or tampons.

Tampons by themselves do not cause TSS. TSS is caused by bacteria, commonly known as Staphylococcus aureus. Once it's in your vagina, it creates a perfect environment for different types of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, to grow. Bacteria produce toxins that cause severe illness. Adolescents are less likely to have antibodies against the toxin produced by this bacteria. You'll probably never get TSS, but you should know what the symptoms are and how to reduce your risk.

3.1. Signs of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) and How to Reduce Your Risk

Symptoms and signs of TSS may include:

  • Sudden fever (usually 38 degrees Celsius or higher);
  • Vomiting;
  • Diarrhea;
  • Fainting or feeling like you're going to faint when you get up;
  • Dizziness or a sunburn-like rash.

If you have any of these symptoms during or shortly after your period, stop using the tampon and see your doctor right away.

3.2. Safety tips when using

Before using it, it is best to contact the manufacturer or doctor to see if using tampons is right for you. When using, please note the following:

  • Follow all labeled instructions. Even if you've used a tampon before, read the instructions on the package.
  • Wash hands before and after use. This will help reduce the spread of bacteria.
  • Only use tampons when you have your period. Do not use for any other use or for any other reason.
  • Replace every 4 to 8 hours. Do not wear a tampon for more than 8 hours.
  • Use tampons with the required absorbency. If you can wear a tampon for up to eight hours without changing, the absorbency may be too high.

What are tampons?  How to use it?

Do not use tampons for more than 8 hours

Contact your doctor if you have pain, fever, or other unusual symptoms. If you experience discomfort or other undesirable symptoms such as unusual discharge when trying to put on a tampon; or if you have an allergic reaction, stop using the tampon and contact your provider.

4. Frequently asked questions about using tampons

4.1. Are reusable tampons safe?

Reuse can carry an additional risk of infections such as yeast, fungal, and bacterial infections.

While you may have heard of reusable tampons, medical organizations still approve these products. Therefore, it is not recommended to reuse tampons.

What are tampons?  How to use it?

Reuse may carry an additional risk of infection

4.2. Is it painful to insert or remove?

The insertion and removal should be painless. However, you should try tampons with or without lubrication. Sometimes it's a little uncomfortable to insert or remove when the vagina is dry.

Using a small amount of water-based lubricant will help alleviate vaginal dryness; make it easier for the tampon to slide in. If you notice a dry, uncomfortable feeling when removing the tampon, try switching to a lighter absorbent one. If you continue to experience vaginal pain during use, see your doctor right away.

4.3. Can you feel it in you when you use it?

When the tampon is properly inserted, you won't be able to feel it. Tampons are designed to be placed in the upper part of the vagina, the part furthest from the vaginal opening. If you can feel it, try pushing it a little deeper.

4.4. Can a tampon get "lost" inside?

The cervix (at the end of the vagina) has only a small opening to let blood or semen through. If you have trouble pulling it out, try pushing. You can try squatting instead of sitting or standing. Move your fingers around the inside of the vagina and try to feel up and back. When you can feel the tampon string, grab it between your fingers and pull it out.

4.5. Can tampons "fall out"?

When the tampon is inserted properly (push far enough), your vagina will hold the tampon in place naturally, even when you're running or active. If you push hard while urinating, the tampon can fall out. If that happens, insert a new one.

4.6. Does it affect the hymen?

Virginity is not something physical or medical. It is a cultural idea that many people have different definitions and opinions about. The concept of virginity is sometimes associated with the idea that your vaginal opening is covered by a membrane, commonly known as the hymen, that is "broken" during vaginal sex.

The vaginal opening (also known as the hymen ) consists of thin folds of mucosal tissue located just inside the vaginal opening (1).

It can vary in size, color, and shape from person to person. May be slightly pink, almost transparent. Can be shaped like a petal, a jigsaw puzzle, or a half moon. In most cases, it is elastic and stretchy. Very rarely, folds of mucous tissue can cover the entire vaginal opening. In that case, it may be necessary to see a gynecologist and open the vagina to drain the menstrual blood.

The vaginal neck can be gradually reduced with basic daily physical activity. The hormonal changes that occur as people mature past puberty can also change the shape and flexibility of the vagina. vagina.

Regardless of whether you use a tampon or not, the fold around the vaginal opening will wear out over time.

4.7. How often should I change?

The best way to know if your tampon needs changing is to gently pull on the tampon cord. If it's starting to pull out easily, it's time to change it up. If not, you can usually leave it for no more than 8 hours; as this increases the risk of developing Toxic Shock Syndrome.

A lightly absorbent tampon can hold up to 3 mL of liquid. While the super absorbent type can hold up to 12 mL. Normal blood loss per period is between 5 mL and 80 mL.

If you constantly need to change your tampon every two hours, this is considered heavy menstrual bleeding and you should see your doctor right away.

4.8. Can you pee with tampons?

You don't have to change your tampon every time you pee, although you may want to insert the string into your vagina or try to hold it tight so it doesn't get in your urine. This is for personal comfort only. However, it is less likely that you will experience health problems from accidentally urinating on a tampon.

4.9. Can you flush down the toilet?

Better not to flush down the toilet. Tampons are made to absorb liquid and expand. So they can clog toilets and pipes; especially if the plumbing is old or if it's a low-flow toilet or septic tank.

Most of them are non-biodegradable, and even tampons don't break down in the sewage system. For plumbing and the environment, the safest option is to wrap tampons (and applicators) in toilet paper and throw them in the trash.

4.10. Can it be used during the first period?

If you want, you can use tampons from the very beginning of your first period. Just watch the instructions or ask your doctor for advice. Choose the absorbency suitable for the amount of menstruation.

4.11. Is it okay to shower while wearing tampons?

What are tampons?  How to use it?

You can wear tampons when showering or swimming

You can wear tampons when bathing or swimming. Menstrual cups are also great for swimming during your period.

If you can't or don't want to use it, you also have some other options: If your period is light, you can wear absorbent swimwear or a dark garment to prevent stains. The waterproof swimsuit looks like a regular bikini bottom but has a hidden, leak-proof lining that helps absorb menstrual blood. You can wear the pad before and after swimming.

4.12. Is there an expiration date?

The shelf life of Tampons is approximately five years, if they are kept in their original packaging and stored in a dry environment. Tampons are clean, hygienic but not sterile. So if they are stored in a humid place like your bathroom; bacteria and mold can grow.

The most important thing you need to pay attention to is the packaging: Has your tampon been lying around in the bag for weeks and the wrapper is damaged? If so, don't use it!. Moldy or dirty tampons can cause vaginal infections.

4.13. Can I use Tampon if I have an IUD?

Immediately after the IUD is inserted, you may experience some bleeding. Do not use tampons for this bleeding. Once the IUD stops bleeding, you can use a tampon or menstrual cup. The threads of the IUD extend only a few centimeters from the cervix. So they absolutely do not interfere with the insertion and removal of Tampons.

Tampon is a compact, convenient item for women's red light cycle days. Using Tampon can help women move freely without worry. However, it is necessary to pay attention to the problems of using Tampon to ensure your own health and safety.