What is a Tampon: Know The Safest Way to Use It.

Women who have just begun menstruating or who have never used tampons before may require instructions on "what is a tampon" And how to securely put in a tampon. A tampon is a tiny absorbent cylinder that is inserted into the vaginal to gather menstrual blood.  Many females prefer tampons to sanitary pads because they are more comfortable and convenient, and they avoid the rashes that come with pads, mainly when worn for an extended period.  Also, there is a lot of fuss about how often I should change a tampon. So, keep on reading to get every possible answer to your queries related to a tampon. 

What is a tampon?

Tampons are disposable period items formed into a tiny, cylindrical shape from extremely absorbent materials. Consider a tiny plug that fits securely within your vagina and absorbs your menstrual blood.  Period tampons, like pads, come in a variety of sizes or "absorbing strengths" to accommodate your menstrual flow. Tampons are available in three sizes: mild flow, moderate flow, and heavy flow. During their first few cycles, most young girls use sanitary napkins. However, many of them later switch to tampons for the sake of convenience. You can engage in sports, fitness classes, or even go swimming while using vaginal tampons.

What are the different types of tampons available in the market?

1. Light tampon: Your period flow is light
2. Regular tampon: Your period flow is light to moderate
3. Super tampon: Your period flow is moderate to heavy
4. Super plus tampon: Your period flow is heavy
5. Ultra tampon: Your period flow is extremely heavy

How are tampons made?

Tampons have evolved significantly, and today's strong tampons are created with ultra-absorbent components such as cotton fabrics, rayon fibers, or a combination of the two.  Tampons are made of rayon fibers, which are cellulose materials derived from wood pulp, and cotton fibers, which are produced by plants. These materials are heavily compressed into a cylindrical shape, and when in contact with menstrual blood, the tampon swells. As a result, a tampon fits pleasantly between your vaginal walls and absorbs your menstrual blood quickly and effectively. Women have used tampons all over the world for a long time. Tampons have been used for thousands of years, and the first ones were constructed from organic fibers such as papyrus, natural sponges, tightly wrapped scraps of garments, and so on.

How to use tampons safely?

Tampons can be intimidating to use at first. But don't worry, It's just a matter of experience. And, no, they cannot become lost within you. Your cervical hole is too narrow to accommodate a tampon. So you don't need to be concerned about it. You can easily insert them with your fingertips. They also have a thin thread tied to them that makes it simple to remove them. Some tampons additionally have plastic or cardboard inserts to assist you in inserting the tampons correctly. If you are unsure about using tampons at first, then you can use period panties or panty liners to prevent yourself from staining. They do really make your periods a lot more comfier and hassle-free after you become used to them.

How to insert your tampon?

Most of the females are concerned about how to put in a tampon? Well, To wear a tampon, you will need to insert it into your vagina using your fingers.  Here are the steps for inserting a tampon:

1. Wash your hands with soap and water.
2. Relax your body and muscles.
3. Hold the tampon with the fingers you write with (the string should be facing down).
4. Position the tampon at the opening of your vagina.
5. Gently push the tampon into your vagina using your fingers.
6. Make sure the string is visible outside of your vagina.

If you are having trouble inserting the tampon or if it is painful, you may be tensing up your muscles. Try to relax and take your time. If you are still having difficulty, you may want to try a different brand or type of tampon, or you can ask a trusted adult or healthcare provider for assistance.

How to remove your tampon?

It is also pretty simple to remove a used tampon. Tampons are attached with a thin string; when it's time to replace your tampon, gently pull on the string to remove the used tampon. While removing the tampon, the string is sturdy enough not to break. Tampon disposal is comparable to sanitary napkin disposal in that it is wrapped in toilet paper and thrown into the rubbish bin. Tampons should never be flushed since they can block the toilet.

What are the Benefits of using tampons?

• Comfort 

Tampons are more comfortable to use for most women than sanitary pads. Tampons allow women to be more active without worrying about them "dropping" out of place.

• Improved hygiene 

The majority of women believe that wearing tampons makes them feel cleaner. Tampons do not cause you to be particularly conscious of your flow. Pads are messy and can stink if used for an extended period of time.

• Allow for swimming 

Tampons, unlike pads, enable you to swim during your period. They are also more comfortable than pads, allowing you to participate in sports as well as other forms of physical exercise.

• There is no visibility 

A pad could be seen through your pants, which is really embarrassing. You won't have to worry about those lines with tampons.

• No odor 

When you wear your pad for an extended period of time, it emits a bad odour. Tampons can help you avoid the odor as long as you remove them on time.

• Wear any underwear 

To prevent leaking, you should wear underwear when wearing pads. Tampons let you wear whichever underwear and garments you like.

• Compact 

Tampons take up less space in the purse than sanitary napkins. Tampons are simple to conceal because you can put a couple into any pocket or purse. Tampons are also far more convenient to dispose of than pads.

How often should I change a tampon?

It is generally recommended to change a tampon every 4-6 hours or more frequently if it becomes full or uncomfortable. It is important to change tampons regularly to reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS), a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can be caused by leaving a tampon in for too long.  It is also a good idea to alternate between using tampons and pads or to use pads at night to give your body a break from tampons. You should speak with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about using tampons.

What are the possible risks of tampons?

Tampons are considered medical devices by the FDA and are regulated as such. Tampons are generally used without incident, though some persons report irritation when inserting or removing them. A retained tampon cannot cause major damage to the cervix or vagina. A tampon stuck in the vagina, on the other hand, poses the risk of infection; thus it is critical to remove it as soon as possible. But, using tampons with a greater absorbance than needed or staying them in for an extended period will increase the possibility of bacteria that cause TSS to develop.

Conclusion

Some women prefer sanitary napkins, whereas others swear by the convenience of tampons. They enable you to be physically active throughout your periods without fear of ruining your clothes.  Sanitary pads, tampons, period panties, and menstrual cups - the type of period product you use is determined by your monthly cycle and is entirely up to you. If you are unsure about something, talk to your doctor and experiment with several products to make the decision.

Also Read:7 Super healthy Drinks that Help with Period Cramps