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Both pads and tampons have the same use and function during menstruation, namely to absorb the menstrual blood that comes out. Although different types, shapes, and how to use them, pads and tampons have their respective advantages and disadvantages.
If you are confused about the two, below will explain the advantages and disadvantages of pads and tampons. Hopefully it can support you in choosing the right feminine product.
What is a bandage?
Sanitary pads, as are widely known, are a product of women's health to absorb vaginal fluids that come out during menstruation. Sanitary pads are made of cotton pads and soft cloth, rectangular in shape. Bandages are used by taping or glued on women's underwear.
In some types and models of pads, some have additional material on the sides, usually called wings. The wings on the bandage are useful for folding on the side of your underwear, in order to prevent the dressing from shifting and prevent leakage of fluids.
What are tampons?
Tampons are the same function as pads, but have different shapes and ways of using them. The tampon is a soft, cylindrical cotton pad. and there is a pulling thread at the end.
Tampons are used by inserting them into the vaginal opening to the limit of the pulling thread. Maybe some women who are not used to using tampons are confused and have difficulty placing them into the vagina. Relax, some tampon products provide an applicator to make it easier for you to push the tampon into your vagina.
Which is better, pads or tampons?
1. Size
Bandages:The size of the bandage is indeed quite wide and long, as if it covers the entire bottom surface of the underwear. For women who forget easily and have minimal sensitivity to stimulation, it is advisable to wear pads during menstruation. With a large shape and visible to the eye, women will not forget that they are using sanitary napkins.
Tampon: In contrast to the size of pads, tampons are in fact no more than 3-5 cm in length. Tampons are suitable for women who are active and want to do a lot of movement or exercise during menstruation. With the small size of the tampon, it is easy to carry in the bag along with the applicator.
2. Usage
Bandages:When choosing to use pads or tampons for comfortable use, pads have their own advantages. For example, with a wide shape extending to the buttocks, the bandage is felt to prevent it from "penetrating" when used.
The bandage also has side wings that prevent it from shifting according to the width and shape of the crotch. Unfortunately, the size of the thick bandage sometimes makes the shape of the bandage visible from the outside, especially when using tight clothing.
Tampon:For those of you who want to stay free to move during your period, without having to worry about leaking or shifting pads, tampons are the right choice. If you are also active in sports or want to keep doing activities such as swimming, tampons can be used because they will clog and absorb blood so that it does not come out of the vaginal opening.
But unfortunately, because it is in the vagina and tends not to be felt, tampons often forget to change.
3. Danger
Bandages:Recently, it was rumored that sanitary pads contain fragrances made from dangerous chemicals. Although there are no valid research results, it doesn't hurt for women to be aware of the use of sanitary napkins and always choose those that are not scented.
Bandages generally absorb liquid and will feel wet on the top surface. So, not infrequently the skin around the vagina will be affected to become moist. Unfortunately, if you are lazy to change or clean sanitary napkins every few hours, it will cause vaginal itching and irritation. In addition, the side adhesives of the winged pads often cause friction on the inner thighs.
Tampon:Tampon that is used for hours without being replaced, you can cause Toxic shock syndrome (TSS). TSS is a rare disease caused by a bacterial infection, not by the tampon itself. Generally, this syndrome is caused by toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria.
TSS can occur in women who use tampons that have been in the vagina for a long time without being replaced. Tampons not only absorb your menstrual blood, but also various natural fluids that are needed by the vagina. Especially if your menstrual blood is low but you are using a tampon with high absorption. As a result, various bacteria can grow and multiply, including the bacteria that causes TSS
In some cases, tampons can also be left in the vagina. This is usually caused by the pulling thread being cut off from the main part of the tampon. If this happens, you are advised to seek first aid at the nearest health center, clinic, or emergency unit.
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