PlanetRx - Learn More - Product Advice - Tampons

No more hassles

Not long ago, "that time of the month" meant using a thick pad to absorb menstrual flow, so women couldn't go swimming when they had their periods. With the advent of the tampon, however, everything changed. Since the tampon absorbs menstrual blood within the vagina, a woman is free to do what she likes, unhindered. Now, women who have their periods can't go swimming because they're too busy mountain biking or kickboxing.

But, as with many good things, there is a downside. Prolonged use of tampons can contribute to toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare but serious, sometimes deadly, disease. So don't just throw those instructions away -- read them and follow them carefully.

Minimize the Risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)

Change tampons at least every eight hours -- more frequently is even better. Another good idea is to replace tampons with sanitary napkins at night.
Wash your hands before inserting or removing a tampon.
Use the lowest absorbency possible. Since flow generally decreases during your period, you may be able to switch from super to regular at some point. For convenience, some manufacturers make combination packs that include different absorbencies.
Look for all-cotton tampons. Manmade materials like rayon, polyethylene, polyester, and polypropylene contained in many tampons can upset the natural microbial balance and may lead to TSS.
Know the symptoms of TSS. If you experience high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, fainting, or a sunburn-like rash, don't delay -- contact a doctor as soon as possible. These symptoms can seem like the flu, so be careful.
Check with your doctor before using tampons if you've had warning signs of TSS in the past.
Be aware of other potential problems related to tampon use. Cancer-causing dioxins may lurk in bleached products and cotton products may contain pesticide residues. While the quantities involved may not be enough to worry about and no direct relationship to health problems has been proven, these substances can be absorbed through the vaginal wall. Unbleached tampons made with organically grown cotton are the safest bet.

Easing Tampon Insertion and Removal

If your flow is not heavy and vaginal tissues are dry, try lubricating the tip of the tampon with a water-soluble lubricant. Do not use an oil-based lubricant because it is very difficult to wash off.
Try lying down on a bed with your knees up when inserting the tampon. A sitting position on a toilet shortens your vaginal passage, possibly making insertion more difficult. Never try to force the tampon if it causes pain.
When choosing tampons, use the lowest absorbency possible. If the tampon is not saturated when you remove it, the dry cotton fibers may stick to the vaginal walls and cause microscopic tears.

Tampon Myths

Can I use a tampon if I've never had sex?

Definitely. The opening in the hymen that lets menstrual fluid out is also large enough to accept a tampon. Insertion may be a little more difficult, so relaxing is important. You might try lying down with knees bent upward instead of sitting or standing.

If I use a tampon, will I still be a virgin?

Yes. The hymen is very flexible and will allow you to insert a tampon without tearing.

Can a tampon get lost in my body?

No. The opening to the uterus -- the cervix -- is too small to allow a tampon to enter so the tampon will always stay in your vaginal canal.

Absorbents

Natural and synthetic fibers help take menstrual discharge out of your way. These absorbent products draw in fluid, keeping it away from you and your clothing.

Ingredient		Description
Absorbents
Cellulose wood fibers	?	Made from processed wood pulp, they act like sponges to soak up menstrual discharge.
Cotton	?	Soaks up menstrual discharge. May contain high levels of dioxins that are potential carcinogenic compounds.
Rayon	?	A cheaper and more absorbent substance than cotton, often used in super absorbent products. More absorbent tampons increase the risk of developing toxic shock syndrome (TSS).
Polyethylene	?	Often used in more absorbent tampons, it can increase the risk of developing TSS. It's used in lotions and has good stabilizing properties.
Polyester	?	Often used in more absorbent tampons, it can increase the risk of developing TSS.

Appropriate Uses

Discreetly absorbs menstrual flow without the bulkiness of sanitary pads; allows you to continue your daily activities, such as swimming, that would otherwise be limited by menstrual periods; minimizes leakage by keeping wetness in the tampon; and prevents odor.

Using Tampons

If there is not an applicator, remove the protective plastic wrapping and insert the tampon vaginally as far as it will comfortably go.
If an applicator is present, insert the applicator vaginally and depress the plunger until the tampon has been inserted as far as it will comfortably go. Check the manufacturer's instructions before flushing the applicator down the toilet.
If you're having trouble, try lying down to insert the tampon.
Tampons should be changed every four to eight hours to reduce the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
When removing a tampon, grasp the string and slowly remove it. Most tampons can be flushed down the toilet.

Use It Correctly

There may be discomfort due to improper insertion.
Menstrual fluid leakage may occur due to improper placement or infrequent replacement. Be sure to change the tampon at least every four to eight hours to reduce risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
Only use tampons during your menstrual period. Using tampons during the month to absorb normal secretions will dry out vaginal tissues, causing tears and ulcerations in the vaginal wall.

Beware

The dioxin chemical used to bleach tampons during manufacturing is a carcinogen linked to endometriosis, developmental and reproductive problems, immune suppression, and disruption of regulatory hormones.
Tampon use may lead to Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). See a doctor immediately if you experience the following:
- Sudden fever, usually 102?F or higher
- Muscle aches
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fainting or dizziness
- A rash that looks like sunburn