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Tampon or sanitary napkin? The answer is not at all obvious. Because both, apart from the advantages, also have disadvantages, the sanitary napkin can cause allergies, and the tampon can cause septic shock.
During menstruation, a woman loses about 100 ml of blood on average. This is a big challenge for manufacturers of tampons and pads.
Advantages of a tampon
Active women, practicing sports, traveling and being in constant motion choose tampons. They guarantee freedom, are comfortable and fit in the smallest size of a women’s handbag. The gynecologist Beata Sterlińska reminds that certain hygienic conditions are necessary to replace a tampon. – We always wash our hands before and after applying a tampon. A maximum of one tampon can be used from 6 to 8 hours – informs the doctor. – Unfortunately, it happens that patients who put on a new tampon come to our offices, forgetting to remove the previously applied tampon. Therefore, before inserting a tampon, you should always check whether you have removed the used one, reminds Dr. Sterlińska.
Tampon – The perfect size
You should not feel a correctly fitted and sized tampon. If it hurts you, pull it out and get a new one. If you feel it is too big, please buy a smaller size. It’s also important to match your tampons to the amount of bleeding. If it is not properly selected, it may excessively dry out. – It happens that after prolonged use of tampons there is dryness in the vagina, burning, and even itching – says the gynecologist – It is better then to give up tampons for a while.
A tampon is not for everyone
To a limited extent, tampons should be used by women with frequent inflammation. The use of a tampon by women wearing a contraceptive intrauterine device seems controversial. There is always a potential risk that when pulling a tampon, the IUD will also be removed, the doctor explains.
Tampons can also cause an extremely rare, but very serious complication – septic shock. It is characterized by a very high fever and abdominal pain. – If you notice such symptoms, you should immediately remove the tampon and see a doctor – says Dr. Sterlińska.
Sanitary napkin – The strength of a micro-granule
Waterproof and ideally suited to the female body, the pads have micro-granules inside that absorb several times more moisture than they weigh.
However, they also have disadvantages. Some women are allergic to them, especially when it comes to absorbent pads soaked in a special absorbent, as well as perfumed ones. – My experience shows that sanitary pads with a perforated mesh are definitely more likely to be allergic and poorly tolerated by women – says Dr. Sterlińska.
Sanitary towel allergy
If you are prone to allergies, avoid certain types of sanitary napkins. During menstruation, you can only use those that are not allergic to you. Ideally, try using pads with a cotton or silk cover.
The size of the pad is also very important. If it is not properly selected, it can cause abrasions and irritation. Whichever pads you choose, change them every two to three hours.
Always dry
Panty liners are an ally of hygiene. They are especially useful during ovulation, when we produce more mucus. They are also irreplaceable while traveling. Even if we cannot use the shower during the day, we will feel clean and fresh. If they do not sensitize you, you can use them even every day.
Text: Maria Janiszewska