Each brand of tampon is a little different, but most call their smallest tampon “regular,” “light,” or “junior.” When you decide to try tampons for the first time, you may want to buy a couple of different brands to see which ones you prefer.
With 5 different sizes, you have a lot to choose from, but sometimes you just need an answer! Tampon sizes are based on the amount of fluid they absorb. Most women use a Regular absorbency. If you want to start with the smallest size tampon until you figure it out, try the Light size.
Many tampon manufacturers provide slim or junior tampons. These are the smallest tampon sizes available and are suitable for first-timers to experiment with as their body adjusts to using them. When selecting tampons for the first time, choose those with a small insertion applicator.
They're made to fit a younger body and suitable for light to heavy period flow. They are called Lil-Lets Teens SmartFit™ tampons and come with or without an applicator. It doesn't matter which type you go for as they both work in the same way once they're inside you. The only difference is how you insert them.
Each brand of tampon is a little different, but most call their smallest tampon “regular,” “light,” or “junior.” When you decide to try tampons for the first time, you may want to buy a couple of different brands to see which ones you prefer.
Any girl who has her period can use a tampon. Tampons work just as well for girls who are virgins as they do for girls who have had sex. And even though using a tampon can occasionally cause a girl's hymen to stretch or tear, it does not cause a girl to lose her virginity. (Only having sex can do that.)
Some girls are successful even if they get no help at all. But any help at all can go a long way toward your daughter feeling comfortable with her body, and bravo for trying. Don't forget to tell them how to take the damn thing out!
You can also try using slender or “light” tampons with soft, tube-shaped plastic applicators. Putting a little bit of Vaseline on the tip of the applicator can help it slide in.
The absorbency of different sizes are: light (3mL), regular (5mL), and super (12mL). It's always best to choose the lightest tampon size that works for your flow.
People can generally choose from junior, light, regular, super, super plus, and ultra-absorbent options. As a general guide: For people new to menstruating, start with a junior tampon. For a light flow, use a light or regular tampon.
How old do you have to be to use tampons? You can start using tampons as soon as you get your period, which could be as young as 10 for some girls. What matters is your comfort level. Armed with accurate information, choosing whether and when to use a tampon is your personal decision.
Why can I feel my tampon, then? The most likely reason is that you didn't push your tampon in far enough when you inserted it. Not to worry – simply use your finger to push it in a little further. If that doesn't fix it, just take it out and try again with a fresh one.
Some girls are born with a very small opening in the hymen, which prevents them from inserting tampons. However, this is true in only about 2% of teens. Others are just nervous the first time inserting a tampon and need practice.
Use a tampon, sponge, or cup while swimming
If you can't or don't want to use a tampon or alternative product like a sponge or menstrual cup, you have a few options. If your flow is light, you can wear absorbent swimwear or a dark-colored suit to prevent stains.
Swimming on your period with a pad is not advised. Pads are made out of absorbent material that soaks up liquids within seconds. Submerged in water like a pool, a pad will completely fill with water, leaving no room for it to absorb your menstrual fluid. Plus, it may swell up into a big soppy mess.
Even though they may not look any different than brand new ones, expired tampons shouldn't be used. Obviously, tampons won't deteriorate immediately once five years is up, but bacteria and small particles of mould can find their way into your tampons after they've expired.
While it's generally safe to sleep with a tampon in if you're sleeping for less than eight hours, it's important that you change tampons every eight hours to avoid getting toxic shock syndrome. It's also best to use the lowest absorbency necessary. Call a doctor if you think you may have toxic shock syndrome.
Can You Swim On Your Period Without a Tampon? As with swimming in general, it's okay to swim on your period without a tampon — or any menstrual product for that matter, says Dr. van Dis. If you want to prevent potential leaks or blood spots on your bottoms by using a period product, you have options.
Change each tampon every 4 to 8 hours.
Never wear a single tampon for more than 8 hours at a time.
How old should you be to use tampons? There is no minimum age for tampon usage. If adolescents want to use tampons, they can usually begin using them as soon as their menstrual cycle starts.
Swimming during your period isn't a problem. However, you will want to use a tampon when swimming so you don't bleed on your swimsuit. Pads won't work and will just fill with water. The tampon won't fall out if it is inserted correctly, so go ahead and make a splash!