Going From Pads To Tampons? An Expert Tells You Everything You Need To Know

There are endless myths and bizarre stories when it comes to tampons. Used as an alternative to pads, the curiosity around them is still prevalent.

The truth, however, is that women have been using tampons for ages now.

It all depends on what you are comfortable with, pads or tampons. Physical exercises like running, swimming, etc are known to be a lot easier while using a tampon - but the doubts and speculation around using them are still plenty in our part of the world.

We got in touch with Dr. Anjila Aneja, Director - Fortis La Femme, Greater Kailash and Director and HOD - Minimal Access Gynaecology Surgery, Fortis, Gurugram - and this is what she told us to keep in mind while using tampons:

1. Choose One With Low Absorbency

Now, it might sound logical to use a high absorbency tampon. However, using one with low absorbency will remind you to change your tampon regularly. If you use a high absorbency tampon, chances are that you will forget to change it.

Dr. Aneja: Technically, whether you use a tampon or a pad, it needs to be changed every 2-4 hrs. While using a tampon, you need to be even more careful. If left inside your body for a long duration, there are chances of you getting infected and developing TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome), which as the name suggests, is a reaction of our body to the toxins produced inside us.

2. Avoid Sleeping With A Tampon

TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome) brings me to the second point, that tampons should never be used at night while sleeping.

Dr. Aneja: It can't be stressed enough how important it is for you to change your tampon every 2-4 hrs. When you use a tampon at night, chances are that you would be sleeping with a tampon inside you for 8 hours straight.

We recommend switching to a pad at night, for an uninterrupted sleep.

Dr. Aneja: Try using a cotton based pad, especially in the summers and monsoons.

3. Wash Your Hands

This one goes without saying. When you insert or remove a tampon, your body is exposed to the bacteria and germs on your hands. So, even if you've spent your day on your laptop or snoozed for hours on your bed, you need to wash your hands before getting them anywhere near your private area.

4. Use Tampons Only When You Are Menstruating Properly

Stick to tampons only when you are menstruating properly, i.e., during the days when your flow is on the heavier side. Tampons work best with sufficient amount of moisture. So, switch to pads or panty-liners during the days when your flow is anything but heavy.

Dr. Aneja: Tampons are easily insertable during proper menstrual days. It is advised to avoid tampons during the days when you do not experience proper menstrual flow, since the vagina is dry. Even your body's chances of developing TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome ) is relatively higher.

5. Do A Quality Check

Dr. Aneja: A tampon is something that is going to come in direct contact with your vagina, thus it needs to be of the best quality. Don't forget to check its expiry (yes, they have a shelf life).

Also check its packaging. They need to be stored in a cool and dry place or else there are chances of bacteria growing on it.

Remember, your menstrual hygiene is your utmost responsibility to keep your body healthy and working. So stick to what suits you and try being as comfortable as possible.