Tampons or pads basically have the same function and are important to use during menstruation. However, the two products These have their respective advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, recognize the difference so that you can determine the choice that suits your needs.
Menstruation that comes every month should not be an obstacle to activities for women. You can use tampons or pads to absorb menstrual blood that comes out.
However, before choosing these products, it's good to know in advance the difference between tampons and pads.
Things You Need To Know About Tampons
Here are some things you need to know about using tampons:
1. Cylindrical
Tampons are a type of menstrual blood collection in the form of small tubes such as cylinders made of fluid-absorbing materials, such as cotton, rayon, or a mixture of both.
2. Easier to carry
The shape of a tampon is smaller than a pad, so it is easier and more compact to carry and can be tucked anywhere. In addition, when you wear a skirt or tight pants, it will not form a bandage. Tampons can also be used when you are swimming.
3. Used by inserting it into the vagina
Tampons absorb menstrual blood from the vagina, meaning that tampons are used by inserting them into the genitals. Some types of tampons have an applicator made of plastic or a cardboard tube that helps make it easier for the product to enter the vagina.
However, there are also tampons that must be inserted using the fingers. There is a strand of string at one end of the tampon. Its function is to withdraw the tampon if it wants to be replaced.
4. Must be replaced every 4–8 hours
For those of you who use tampons, it is important to change them every 4-8 hours so they don't cause infection and don't leak. In addition, you are also advised to replace tampons with new ones before going to bed and also immediately after waking up.
Changing tampons regularly is very important to prevent bacterial overgrowth that can lead to toxic shock syndrome.toxic shock syndrome or TSS), which is a rare condition that causes fever, nausea, diarrhea, muscle aches, weakness, and a red rash around the vagina. This condition can be fatal.
Understanding the Use of Pads
Below are some things you need to understand regarding the use of sanitary napkins:
1. Rectangular
Just like tampons, sanitary pads are also made of materials that can absorb fluids and are easy to carry anywhere. The difference is, the pads are rectangular and larger.\
2. Glued to the panties
If the use of tampons is inserted into the vagina, the use of pads is simply glued to the inner side of the underwear. Some sanitary napkins are equipped with side attachments or "wings" that can be folded.
The point is to prevent leakage to the side and keep the position of the pads from shifting. Pads are available in various thicknesses and lengths of pads, tailored to your needs.
3. Many choices of products
In Indonesia, pads are easier to find than tampons. In addition to sanitary napkins that have wings, there are also sanitary napkins that are scented and deodorant.
However, unfortunately it can actually cause vaginal irritation or allergic reactions. We recommend that you choose a safe sanitary napkin with a soft surface material, good absorption, and does not contain fragrance or deodorant.
4. Need to be replaced every 4–6 hours
Don't forget to change your pads every 4–6 hours, regardless of the type and brand of pads you use. Especially if there is more menstrual blood or when the pads feel uncomfortable to wear, for example, because they sweat a lot due to hot weather or exercise.
Regular changing of sanitary napkins will keep your intimate organs clean and healthy, and you will be prevented from irritation and vaginal infections.
After understanding the difference between tampons and pads as above, you can choose one or use both interchangeably, as needed. For example, tampons when swimming and pads when sleeping.
The important thing to remember, both in using tampons and pads, is that you don't forget to change them regularly and always keep your body and intimate organs clean.
If at any time you experience complaints due to the use of tampons or pads, such as rash, itching, redness, and swelling in the vagina, you should consult a doctor for treatment.