What is the difference between pads and tampons

The review also suggests that information about the menstrual cups and how to use them is often lacking, and many people remain unaware that these reusable products are even available. The researchers also looked at the extent to which menstrual cups were safe to use. They also analyzed adverse effects as reported by European, North American, and African populations.

Among participants in the available studies, only five reported experiencing toxic shock syndrome after using a menstrual cup. However, the researchers caution that it is unclear how many people actually use menstrual cups. Therefore, they were unable to compare risk rates for this event between menstrual cups and disposable menstrual products.

Four studies reported that using menstrual cups did not affect vaginal flora. Research that examined the vaginal canal and the cervix after a person used a menstrual cup showed that this product did not cause tissue damage. There may, however, be some risks for women using intrauterine devices IUDs. The researchers identified 13 cases in which removing the menstrual cup after use also dislodged the IUD. Of the people who used a menstrual cup, five reported experiencing pain, three had vaginal wounds, six developed an allergy, and nine said they experienced urinary tract problems.

However, the researchers conclude that based on the available studies, menstrual cups are at least as safe and reliable as other menstrual hygiene products, and they urge educators to include them in their presentations:.

Our findings can inform policymakers and programs that menstrual cups are an alternative to disposable sanitary products, even where water and sanitation facilities are poor. The review also issues a word of warning — many of the studies the authors looked at were not of sufficiently high quality. Many studies did not feature in peer-review journals, others were too old and reported inaccurate data, and some focused on menstrual cups that are no longer available.

They also add that most studies relied on self-reporting, which can lead to overestimations and inaccuracies. For these and other reasons, the investigators urge researchers to conduct more indepth studies regarding the safety and risks of using menstrual cup, as well as on their true environmental impact and their cost effectiveness. Vaginal cuts and tears are common and can occur when a person is removing pubic hair or engaging in sexual activity. Minor cuts or tears are generally….

Most females experience at least some symptoms of premenstrual syndrome PMS. This article explores the symptoms, causes, and treatments of PMS. Pads There are pads designed for overnight use, so if you want to sleep in, turn off your alarm and do your thing.

Tampons Day or night, tampons can be worn for up to 8 hours. They can stay in place no matter how you toss or turn. Pads There are no known health risks associated with using them. Just make sure you change them regularly as wearing a wet pad for long periods of time can cause mild skin irritation. Tampons Tampons can absolutely be used safely.

Just remember that they can increase your risk of TSS, so know the symptoms and what to do if you think you have it. Toxic Shock Syndrome is a serious illness that can impact anyone. Learn the causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Get tips for preventing TSS. Wondering how long you can keep a tampon in before you need to change it? Or if you can wear it overnight? We've got answers and resources. Is your period normal or irregular? What tampon size should you get?

Know your flow and what it means for your health and period protection. What are the Safety Risks? Related articles:. Which Tampon Sizes Do you Need? Know Your Flow Is your period normal or irregular? Tampons Vs. Once you have read the instructions and practised a few times however, you should be good to go! Toxic Shock Syndrome: although extremely rare, toxic shock syndrome can develop if tampons are left in too long. It is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the bacteria in your vagina overgrows.

To reduce the risk of developing toxic shock syndrome you should change your tampon frequently every hours ideally and use the lowest absorbency tampon you can.

What are Sanitary Pads? The Pros and Cons of Pads Just like tampons, pads may not be suitable for everyone and all activities.

The pros of pads: Ease of use: pads are super easy to use, simply unfurl and stick to your knickers to secure. Heavy period protection: pads are ideal for use overnight or for those with a particularly heavy flow. The larger surface area can absorb more fluid helping you to feel protected. Almost no risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome: the risk of developing toxic shock syndrome due to wearing pads is extremely low.

This makes it a great option if you are particularly prone to forgetting to change sanitary products frequently. No insertion: wearing a pad means that no insertion is required. This can be daunting for some people and so a pad may be a more comfortable and better option for them. Some people also dislike the feeling of moisture on the pad.

As pads are worn outside of the body they are more likely to be visible under certain clothing types. Restricts activity: pads are not appropriate for all activities, especially swimming for example. If you are undergoing strenuous activity or are going swimming a tampon may be the better option.

Less secure: pads often shift out of place. This could cause them to become uncomfortable and could leak. Choosing pads with wings helps pads to stay in place. Underwear: you are not able to wear certain types of underwear when using pads. Thongs are a no-go. Take a look at some of the times you may want to opt for either tampons or pads.

Use Tampons if… You are going swimming - tampons are one of the only sanitary products that will offer you protection during swimming, along with menstrual cups You are wearing tight fitting clothing and are worried about the visibility of a pad You are exercising - tampons are much less likely to move around during activity Use Pads if… You often forget to change your tampon frequently - it can be extremely dangerous to leave a tampon in for long periods of time.

Pads should also be changed frequently however you have a much lower risk of developing toxic shock syndrome You have a particularly heavy flow or want protection at night time - a night time pad can help to provide extra protection while you sleep You find tampons uncomfortable or difficult to use - tampons should be virtually undetectable when inserted correctly however it can take some getting used to so pads may be the way to go until you do Safety Are tampons safe?

Sanitary towels and pads are also safe to use. Overnight Use When looking for period protection overnight, sanitary pads are often recommended. Comfort Comfort is key when it comes to your period. Environmental Impact Sanitary products are essential however, in recent years their impact on the environment has been in the spotlight.

Alternative Sanitary Products Not convinced by either tampons or pads? Menstrual Cups Menstrual cups are becoming more and more popular. This can be messy if the cup is full. You will also need to thoroughly clean your cup between uses. Leaks: if the cup becomes full, it may overflow and result in leakages. By ensuring you choose the right size cup for your flow you can help to prevent this. Insertion: some people find menstrual cups difficult to insert however, they will come with instructions and after a few practices it should be second nature.

IUD: for those with an IUD, a menstrual cup can pull on the strings and cause it to become dislodged therefore it is not the best option for those using the IUD method of contraception.

Toxic Shock Syndrome: when not used properly there is a small risk of developing toxic shock syndrome. Ensure that you empty and thoroughly clean your menstrual cup frequently to prevent this. Latex: some menstrual cups may contain latex so make sure to check the label before use if you have a latex allergy. Period Pants Period pants are made from absorbent material that can hold as much blood as a couple of pads or tampons worth.

The pros of period pants: Reusable: period pants can simply be thrown in the wash after use and worn again and again. Secure: period pants offer full coverage protection helping you to feel less prone to leakages.

They are not ideal for heavy flows however. Extra protection: many people choose to wear period pants on top of other sanitary products on heavy flow days or at night time to add an extra layer of protection. Choice of styles: you can buy period pants in a wide range of styles and colours so you can find the perfect fit for you. The cons of period pants Cost: period pants are more expensive than regular underwear generally and you will need multiple pairs in order to accommodate for your whole period.