Sex, Etc. -- What products should I use during my period?

What products should I use during my period?

During your period, you typically release about 1/3 to 1/2 cup of fluid. Doesn’t sound like much, but it definitely calls for some protection.

You have two basic choices: sanitary pads or tampons, both commonly available in drugstores and supermarkets.

Pads come in a lot of different shapes and sizes – maxi pads for heavy days, minipads for light ones. They’re backed with adhesive that attaches the pads to your underwear to absorb the fluid.

Tampons also come in various sizes – regular, medium, super – and are designed for different flows. They’re inserted inside the vagina and are a good choice if you’re going swimming or just don’t want to wear a pad.

Tampons must be changed every four to six hours to prevent the possibility of an illness called toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Wearing tampons (especially the super absorbent kind when your flow is normal) for a long time traps bacteria inside your vagina and can cause TSS. Symptoms include fever, nausea, vomiting, severe diarrhea, headache, dizziness, sore throat and a rash or peeling skin on your hands and feet. It is rare and can be treated with antibiotics if caught early enough.

An alternative to tampons are products such as Instead and the Diva Cup. They are pretty new on the market and some women love them.

Avoid scented menstrual products and douching. They can irritate the vagina and really aren’t necessary.

Your Comments

Diva Cup

Posted by: Crizzy on Jul 16th, 2008 3:16pm

I just ordered one. Has anyone else tried one before and
have an opinion?

RE: um..

Posted by: DanR on Feb 18th, 2008 11:04am

As you can see from my previous response, you are not alone.
If you haven't already, you might want to try using a
plastic applicator (cardboard can cause more friction) and
some lubricant right on the tip. Some KY jelly or saliva
should help it slide in easier. Here is a link to an article
from teenwire that you might want to check out:
http://www.teenwire.com/infocus/2003/if-20031119p204-tampon.
php or you can check out www.onbeinggirl.com for more info.

um..

Posted by: bearr8 on Feb 12th, 2008 10:35am

iv had my periosd for a year or so, and i am just now trying
to use tampons, but it hurts. and i dont know why... or if
im doing it wrong. please hlep.?

RE: Why does it hurt?

Posted by: DanR on Feb 11th, 2008 1:12pm

This is actually pretty normal and usually due to lack of
lubrication, especially if you are using a cardboard
applicator. If you haven't already, you might want to try
using a plastic applicator and some lubricant right on the
tip. Some KY jelly or saliva should help it slide in
easier. Here is a link to an article from teenwire that you
might want to check out:
http://www.teenwire.com/infocus/2003/if-20031119p204-tampon.
php or you can check out www.onbeinggirl.com for more info.
Good luck!

Why does it hurt?

Posted by: mmmxpoptarts on Feb 9th, 2008 5:14pm

I wanted to start using tampons instead of pads now, but the
few times I've tried to insert one it's hurt and I took it
out. Why does it sting when I'm trying to put it in?

Tampons

Posted by: VirginOnTheVerge on Sep 2nd, 2007 10:33pm

I've been using tampons since 8th grade, and they work just
fine. I was a bit scared at first too, but it's really no
big deal, and actually more convenient at times. Just be
sure to read the instructions provided, use it properly, and
don't leave it in too long! And never have I had a string
break or anything like that, so don't worry, you'll be fine
:)

Tampons!!!: Response

Posted by: StacieS on Jul 24th, 2007 4:17pm

I think www.teenwire.com has a good animation about using
tampons, pads and cups. It's understandable that you might
feel nervous to use a tampon for the first time. If you want
to try them, I suggest buying the smallest size first and
reading the instructional packet that comes with it.

Tampons!!!

Posted by: Seriana8 on Jul 24th, 2007 3:42pm

i havnt had my period for too too long, and i really dont
like useing pads, (because you cant go swimming, and you
feel dirty etc...) but tampons... i have never used one....
but i am kinda scared too use one! so.. what can i do??? - i
have to use one at some poit in my life!

IFFY About both....

Posted by: chuby_101 on Jun 22nd, 2007 2:53pm

I just started wearing tampons....I use both tampons & Pads
& i feel that both are helpful... & i realy liked the
tampons....It helps u feel much cleaner than the pads.

tampons

Posted by: sammy-x- on May 29th, 2007 11:41am

I really hate using pads but feel dirty about using a
tampon...i cant bring myself to usse one! what if the string
falls off or it gets stuck or LEAKS!!!??

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