Choosing Between Pads, Tampons and Liners
Every period is different. Some periods last longer than others. Some are heavier than others. And no matter when your period arrives, you want to be able to keep on living uninterrupted. That’s why choosing the right product to protect you during your period is so important. You may wonder which product will work best. Some women prefer pads, others prefer tampons and some find that a combination of the two works best. Here’s a little information about each type of product, to help you decide.
Q. What are pads, and will they work for me? A. Pads are placed inside your underwear to catch the menstrual fluid that leaves the body during your period. They come in all kinds of absorbencies, shapes and sizes. Some have wings and some don’t. They’re great for a number of reasons, like when:
- you’ve just started your period and you’re not quite ready to try tampons
- it’s going to be awhile until you can change your product, like while you’re sleeping or traveling
- you usually have a very heavy flow
Q. What are tampons, and will they work for me? A. Tampons are placed inside the vaginal canal, usually with an applicator, to catch the menstrual fluid before it leaves the body. They come in different absorbencies, and they’re best for when:
- you’ve had periods for awhile and you’re ready to try tampons
- you have plenty of opportunities throughout the day to change your protection (once every four to six hours)
- you’re very active; tampons protect well and are comfortable to use while playing sports or swimming
- you usually have a moderate flow
Q. What are pantiliners, and will they work for me?
A. Pantiliners can be used every day to keep you fresh and clean. They protect your underwear and absorb odors. They can also be helpful in case you start your period a little early. You’ll notice a stain on the liner and not on your underwear.
The key to finding the product that protects you best is to try different products and different product combinations until you find what fits you and your lifestyle comfortably. To start, use Find My Kotex® Fit.
If you found this helpful, these articles and forums might help, too:
Article: Phases of Your Cycle
Article: General Period Q + A
What others are saying
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jenny, 6/14/2008 5:12:00 PM
how do you incert a tampon -
Pam, 6/16/2008 5:59:30 AM
Is there anything external that preteens can wear for swimming? I started my menses at 10, too young for tampons. My granddaughter just staarted at 12 and is unable to insert a tampon. -
Colleen, 6/17/2008 1:23:13 PM
I would also like to know what type of pad is suitable for a 10 year old to use for swimming without swelling up. I don't want to introduce tampons to my daughter for a couple of years yet, however, she is missing out on too much of her childhood by menstrating so early. -
angela, 6/17/2008 3:02:06 PM
there is no pad that doesnt swell up when u swim, either u deprive the poor girl of swimming or u introduce her to tampons...its your choice...i know it suck, but hey, thats the price that comes with being a girl!! -
Heather, 6/17/2008 3:33:53 PM
When a girl is old enough to menstruate, even at 9 or 10, her body has made changes that indicate she is old enough to be able to use a tampon. If the person teaching her is patient and encouraging, she will be open to using one and not feed off your fear. Pads, by nature of their design, will absorb the pool or lake and not what they are intended to and make for devastatingly embarassing moments. Begin with a lesson watching one expand in a cup of water with food colouring. Progress to the girl inserting a slender one under safe and non-stressful conditions before a social pool party or swimming lesson. Otherwise, too many young women miss out on valuable social and recreational opportunities and instead hate becoming women and their developing bodies. Let them enjoy life and don't let being female restrict them! -
just for help, 6/22/2008 9:11:18 PM
Inserting a tampon can be easy or difficult. The most important thing to remember is to RELAX, if you are at all tense, it just doesn't go in. It may take 10 seconds if you use them a lot or it may take a few minutes if it is your first time. RELAX and gently slide it in read the package thoroughly before you use tampons, it will help you. -
samantha ehrhardt, 6/23/2008 1:11:38 PM
I love pads. i will sing you my pad song. it could be your trademark song. here it is: pads pads pads the more you bleed, the more you need! -
Patty, 6/23/2008 6:25:42 PM
My daughter just turned 10 and she started her period today, she is a little upset about it (she is getting breasts too). How do I make her feel ok about all this growing up she is doing? -
Alex, 6/26/2008 3:56:15 AM
my 12 year old daughter started her period this week, shes coping well (She was at her dads house when it happened & just used her emergency supply which I gave her months ago).The only problem i have is finding her a short enough pad that doesnt leak at the sides. -
Kerrie , 6/28/2008 2:05:13 PM
Using pads with wings can greatly decrease the risk of leaking out the sides. I personally prefer tampons and I've been using them since I started my period at age 14. But when I am forced to wear pads I prefer ones with wings because I feel more secure about it not leaking out the sides. And, frankly, the longer the better for me... I feel more protected. :) -
Natasha, 6/29/2008 3:17:16 PM
I'm 13 1/2 and I just got my period 2 days ago. I used pads the first day and a half but then I went to Walmart with my mom and got some tampons. I got the thin ones and it went right in, no trouble at all and I couldn't even feel it! Plus, I have to use tampns because I'm on the swim team. So, I don't think you should restrict your daughter from wearing tampons. What's the big deal? -
Taylor, 7/10/2008 6:40:56 PM
I got my period about 13 days ago, and I had to go to summer camp. I had a really hard time swimming, because when I got out I could feel the blood coming out and I was embarrassed. I had blood stains in my swimsuit and I had to wash then out. My mom thinks that I don't need to use a tampon, but pads are uncomfortable and I don't like them that much. I am trying to tell my mom that I don't like them (pads) and that I would like to give tampons a try. Wish me luck! -
Lauren, 7/13/2008 10:10:19 PM
Just go to the store and buy some tampons. I didn't even ask my mom. -
Caitlin, 7/15/2008 9:50:24 AM
Taylor, i have the same problem, except i have had my period for like 8 months and i am on the swim team, and my mom won't let me wear tampons yet. I have a pretty moderate flow, and when i am in the water it is fine but when i get out i can feel it rush out, it sucks and yeah, i need luck convincing her too! (I have not asked her since i started my period). -
Pat (a mom), 7/15/2008 10:16:05 AM
I just taught my two daughters (ages 9 and 14) how to use tampons. My oldest is newly adopted from China and doesn't speak much English, so we couldn't use the directions in the box. I wish they were available in many languages (and lower level readability with better pictures for younger kids), but since they aren't, here's what we did:
1. First, we took opened a tampon to see how it worked, so the girls had a good understanding of the plunger and insertion.
2. Getting them to relax was the hardest, so one girl actually laid on her back on the floor to learn how to insert them. The other put one foot up on the tub and one on the floor, to put her in a better position to insert it.
3. For the first time, we waited until they were a few days into their cycles so that insertion was easier.
4. I tried to find the most slender tampon out there--anything smaller than a regular size was actually hard to find in our rural area.
5. One daughter had no trouble inserting, but the other was fearful and said it hurt. She asked for my help in doing it, so I did (while she was lying down). Moms, be prepared to help if needed! Once we were able to do this painlessly, her confidence increased.
6. Explain to the girls that there is a muscle holding the tampon in place, and they have to nudge the tampon up past that muscle to keep it there comfortably.
7. We have gone through two cycles to get this far. I think we'll need 2-3 more before they are completely independent with it--and even then, with my youngest I need to monitor her since she is so young. She actually had an easier time of learning this than my oldest. Be patient and understand that persistence and practice is the key to success with tampons.
8. Moms, if you are comfortable doing so, demonstrate on yourself for your daughters. I considered this, but didn't end up having to do it. :-)
9. Think of this learning as a process--you may not be successful the first few times. Try not to wait until you have something special (like a swim) to try them for the first time. -
Kaylan, 7/17/2008 12:27:42 AM
my period started two days before my birthday and i so unconcious about wearing pads .im scared that people could them through my pants.i want to ask my mother about tampons but im so scared and also im scared to use them what should i do. -
susan, 7/17/2008 4:40:16 AM
I DONT KNOW ABOUT THAT LAST ONE (COMMENT) MOTHER YOU SOUND A BIT STRANGE WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT ITS IS YOUER DAUGHTER THATS GOT TO LEARN HOW TO INSERT NOT YOU AND MORE THAN ONCE YOU ARE SICK -
kayla , 7/17/2008 8:04:13 AM
my mom was a little skeptical at first when I asked her if I could use tampons. I first asked her if i could use them when i was about to start my period right before I went to summer camp. she said no , but luckly I didnt start till like the last day of summer camp. Then one day she left and went to work and I decided that i wanted to try them out and I walked to Foodlion on my own and bought a box of regulars! I read the instructions on my own and have been using them ever since. I think my mom was just afraid to teach me or something! -
Cindy, 7/17/2008 9:47:13 AM
Susan, please don't be so hard on the mom that taught her daughters how to use tampons. I think it's awesome to have such an open relationship with your mom. My mom thought I would lose my virginity by using tampons. I learned when I was 15 and with my best friend and her sisters yelling instructions through the bathroom door. Been using them ever since! -
Laura, 7/17/2008 10:15:50 AM
I want to commend those of you who are young and trying tampons. Don't get frustrated. It can be a difficult thing. I was not able to use them until I was 25, after I had gotten married. It really hurt and I couldn't get it in right before then. Some of you may have more luck, but nothing is wrong with you if you're unable to get it in. It may take many years before you get one in comfortably. -
Nancy, 7/17/2008 11:41:24 AM
I find this all very interesting. First, I only have sons so wont be going thru this. But if I had daughters, what is the problem with them wearing tampons? I prefer pads, and only wear tampons for swimming. But if I had a young daughter beginning her period and she wanted tampons, I'd just explain the need to change them more frequently and give her my blessings. I'd be there for her but let her decide for herself. -
Jess, 7/17/2008 12:47:41 PM
i like swimming and i have had my period since 6th grade. im 13 now i got it when i was 12. but i dont know about using tampons because like my mom told me about how if your not ready for them it can get stuck in you or something. she approves of me using them im just kinda scared. what do i do? -
Donna, 7/17/2008 1:31:21 PM
Whats the best tampon for a 12 year
old to use who just started her period? -
Mary-Ann, 7/17/2008 2:02:25 PM
When I first started my period I used pads, because that's what my mom used. My first period lasted for ten days...after that I got sick of wearing what felt like diapers during dance class, so I asked my mom, "I want to use tampons, can I?" She said, "Sure, if you want, I don't like them, but if you can figure it out, go ahead." She bought them for me, I screwed up on one, figured it out, and voila! fourteen years later, I'm so glad I did. Moms, if your daughter wants to use tampons, let her. Tampax tampons have easy to read instructions with illustrations, and I'll bet she can figure it out all by herself. One thing, though: if a girl doesn't learn sex education before she gets her period, she might not know her own anatomy, so it's important that she does learn about it before the "big day". -
monet, 7/17/2008 2:55:27 PM
i play tennis and it is uncomfortable to wear pads while i play,.i am going to a tennis camp and dont know what to do. i cant put it on because it is hard. what is the easiest way to put a tampon on. -
Suzie, 7/17/2008 3:52:49 PM
Well i got my period when I was 12/13 and I am 16 now...I've always used pads, but now I'm thinking about using tampons...My greatest concern is if it would hurt or if I put it in the wrong way...What should I do?!? -
Nicole, 7/17/2008 6:24:59 PM
personally my mom was never able to wear tampons (they gave her yeast infections or something). so i never used them. but my friends did. i tried them at 15, 16, 18, and finally at 19 i was able to insert one after nearly fainting because i wasn't RELAXING. but once i got it in there and realized how comfortable it was i loved it. now i only wear pads at night and sometimes i want a break from tampons. i think every girl should learn at a young age. i was 10 when i started my period. around 13 i would have liked to learn. i could've asked a friend though, i guess. it comes with being a lady. especially if u enjoy swimming or if ur in gymnastics and sports and stuff like that. i was a cheerleader & i wish my mom had taught me. i wouldn't have been so self conscious in school worrying about leaks and stuff. i plan on teaching my daughters when they start. i think it should be up to the girl since it is her body and she needs to be comfortable and have no worries. hope this is helpful. -
LAILA, 7/17/2008 11:59:02 PM
I'M 15,GOT MY PERIOD WHEN I WAS 11, AND USED MY FIRST TAMPON ON 7/9/08.WE TOOK A CRUISE TO THE BAHAMAS AND I'D HATE NOT TO BE ABLE TO GET IN THE BEAUTIFUL WATER.BUT ANYWAYS, I WAS SCARED AT FIRST. SO MY MOM JUST REMINDED ME TO RELAX. AFTER I READ THE DIRECTIONS AND INSERTED IT I'D WONDERED WHY I'D NEVER DONE IT BEFORE...NOW I'M NEVER GOING BACK TO PADS :) -
Enjoli, 7/18/2008 12:40:46 AM
Just wondering--- if there's "Huggies LIttle Swimmers" for toddlers that "protect, yet won’t swell up like a diaper when playing in and around water" why hasn't someone created a pad that does the same thing? Sure would make life easier for women who prefer pads. -
joanna, 7/18/2008 10:23:23 AM
I'm 14 and we are going on vacation in 1 day to the beach and just my luck i got my period today :( when i asked my mom what i was going to do she told me she would buy me tampons so im kinda nerves on how to put one in so wish me luck!!!! -
Kerrie , 7/18/2008 12:15:06 PM
I personally prefer tampons by far! I started when I was 14 and I really wanted to use tampons but my mom said no. I didn't understand why and didn't think it was fair. So one day my mom and dad were at work and I got one of my mom's tampons *( it was a regular) I tried using it by myself with no instruction whatsoever and it hurt so badly because I was pushing it straight up. Finally I read the box where it said to push it back toward your spine. Once I did that it went in with ease and didn't hurt at all. ***** So remember first time tampon users, Push the tampon back toward the spine, not up******* -
Angela, 7/18/2008 4:58:37 PM
I started my period at 12 (I'm now 34). I snuck & tried tampons but couldn't get it right. It just plain hurt. (My cycles ran from 8 - 12 days each and every month!)
About 7 years ago, I talked to a close friend about it and she laughed WITH me, explained it and off I went, encouraged, but didn't try it. I've been married for nearly 6 years now and believe it or not, my wonderful husband encouraged me to first use them. I loved it! They're a good break from pads.
Unfortunately, because I am an EXTREMELY heavy bleeder, I was advised by my doctor to not use them. I don't know if I personally would encourage my daughter, if we had one, but if she asked, I would like to think I'd let her. -
angela, 7/18/2008 7:03:31 PM
should I use Tampon, since my menstrual fluid is not all fluid. -
Rose, 7/18/2008 7:18:55 PM
Yeah, I agree with the last comment that that is a great idea.
But anyways, I'm 15 and I got my period when I was 13 and I used pads for about the first month or two. When I went to the store with my mom she asked me if I wanted tampons and I did because I didn't want to waste summer swimming time and I was already not enjoying the diaper feeling. I was nervous at first just for fear that it would hurt but it didn't at all. They really are more comfortable. I just read the instructions and yes, the #1 thing is to relax. I prefer tampons but I read somewhere that you should try to switch the use of pads and tampons so that's what I do : ] -
Lilly, 7/19/2008 2:40:11 PM
This is to Enjoli. Those huggies little swimmers things don't protect from urine escaping into the water (why do you think people hate babies in public pools and such) they simple protect in case the child has a bowel movement. As far as urine those diapers are far worse than regular diapers because they aren't designed for the same purpose. Therefore if they created a similar product for feamles during their periods it would essentially do abolustely nothing. -
Suzie, 7/19/2008 2:55:55 PM
Thank you all for your advice. I will take what you said into consideration. :) -
gabriella, 7/19/2008 8:58:54 PM
susan,i dont know why you would say something like that,because pat had a smart idea. -
Breanna , 7/19/2008 9:17:39 PM
i havent started my period yet but i will soon cause i ahve real BAD cramps and all signals but wat is better to use when i get my period :pads, Tampons or linners? -
tracey, 7/24/2008 5:50:33 PM
i have a question? who should allow the daughter to try tampons? dad and stepmom or mom?mom doesnt want daughter to use tampons the problem is we are going on a vacation and daughter will be menstrating 1 week of the 2 how boring to sit on the beach while we all swim any comments or suggestions oh yeah daughter talked to dad about periods and sex not mom -
Tammy, 7/26/2008 8:20:35 PM
My daughter (12) started her period in March. We had a weekend at an indoor waterpark planned and she started the day before we left. I asked if she wanted to cancel or try tampons. I never used them when I had periods, so we were both a little nervous. I went to the store to get them but didn't really know what kind to buy. Another customer was in there and realized I was clueless. She told me about her experiences with her daughters and helped me decide which kind to buy. I brought them home, we read the instructions together then "practiced" on my fist. She tried to insert the first one alone but couldn't do it. I went in and tried to talk her through it. I told her to take a deep breath and relax. She did, and it went right in. She used them the whole weekend during swimming and had no problems or worries! I was so happy for her. She wants to start using them instead of pads, except for bedtime. I'm OK with that! -
Lil' One, 7/28/2008 8:26:32 PM
How do you convience your mom that your ready to wear a tampon (only for swimming) when she doesn't even want you wearing them. -
ki-yanna, 8/8/2008 9:53:38 PM
i have not started yet but since every 1 has been talkin bout tampons 4 swimmin and i would be just like tammy were tampons all day exept bedtime but i think my mom will say no about using tampons but ill beg her cuz its my body -
M - O - M, 8/9/2008 9:08:55 PM
I will tell you young girls that your moms are not just fearful of you wearing them to be mean - there are diseases that have been related to the use of tampons called TSS - and you can read up on the disease in the pamphlet that is supplied with your tampons, when you purchase them! TSS is a rare disease - but has in some cases been fatal - so be patient with your parents - as most are only trying to protect you! If you should decide to go outside of your parents advice and try them - make sure you are only using the ones you need (ie: light flow - use a light flow tampon vs a heavy flow) This limits the time frame you may have one on.
My daughter (12) started last night - and today she had a birthday party to attend - where they would be swimming. I helped her through using a tampon so that she could go on with her daily routines and not be left out. I was patient and detailed and she handled it great - says she can't even feel it! I advised her to understand that I dont want her using tampons at all times right now - I'd prefer its strictly during active sports/swimming times, vs as a daily usage - when she could just use the safer pad. That might be a good arguement for you girls for your parents! "LIMITED USE" GOOD LUCK! -
Joanna, 8/13/2008 3:05:16 PM
Is it true that the reason inserting tampons hurt is because your aim is wrong? -
Fran, 8/17/2008 3:32:45 PM
Way to go, M-O-M!!! Finally, an educated comment!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! -
teresa, 8/19/2008 5:24:31 PM
the information good -
chantel, 8/22/2008 3:26:31 PM
i want to try them but cant muster enough courage to ask mo mom....
i started when in april of this year and in already regular... -
Melissa, 8/30/2008 10:12:24 AM
For those mothers wary of letting their preteens try tampons, I would like to share my experience. I'm 23 now, and got my first period around 13. I didn't feel comfortable wearing tampons regularly until 18, and didn't try them at all until about 15.
When I was 14, we went on a whitewater rafting trip. My mom had suggested I wear a tampon, but the topic had not come up before, and I was SO AFRAID that I was doing something wrong/immoral that I refused and wore a pad instead. I spent all but the first 20 minutes of the 2-hour trip in tears, with my rear end sitting as tightly to the boat as it could, because I could see red every time I budged. (Fortunately, noone could tell how much I was crying since we were all getting soaked...)
Wearing a tampon does not make you a bad person, nor does it make you lose your virginity (I'm not even sure why some think that - but it seems important to say, since especially preteens get too little information on the topic). If its your first time using them (or your daughter's) buy the smallest kind you can find, and buy both plastic and cardboard applicators. Plastic is smoother, but cardboard seems to be slimmer (to me, anyway). You may not like them all the time, but for any water sports, they're a must.
Finally, if you are uncomfortable explaining this to your daughter(s), start practicing. Inserting a tampon is a lot simpler discussion than talking about the birds and the bees! -
Lynn, 8/30/2008 4:02:28 PM
Chantel, just tell your mom that you want to try them, if she doesnt want you to then find out why and let her know the reason that you want to try them. I was lucky enough to have this problem because my mom bought me tampons, although i haven't used them yet. The reason could be that she didn't start using them until after a couple of years. if she lets you try them then be sure that you know how to use one. If you dont insert it right it could hit the pelvic bone and that is painful. -
Jane, 9/6/2008 2:21:06 PM
I'm a mom and step-mom, and best I can guess is that many of the moms out there might not have been exposed to tampons when they were younger. I know I wasn't. In fact, the pads that they had when I first started (I was 11) were hooked to a belt. They were just starting to introduce pads that have the sticky stuff on them when I was in my early teens. I agree with the moms out there that it's better to have the discussion, do some trials at home, well before you have an even to go to. I guess we're a little more open in our discussions at our house, but the home I grew up in wasn't, so I completely understand how some of you ladies are feeling. I'd say try to approach your mom, and if needbe, talk to your dad. I honestly found my dad easier to talk with about my period and bras than my mom. Sounds weird, but my mom would freak and just clam up. Tampons take some getting used to. Here's my thoughts, that are the same as what you've read already. Use the smallest size you need for the amount of flow you are having. Then, look for the ones with the comfort applicator - usually has a flower petal type setup right at the end of the tampon. these are usually a little more comfortable to insert. Also, while I personally go for the cardboard ones (because we have limited trash pickup, etc), the plastic applicators will slide a little easier and might feel a little better. And as you've heard, and read in the package, TSS can be VERY DANGEROUS. Make sure you change the tampon on a regular schedule. I found when I was younger (and honestly, still do this now) that if I tried to stay on schedule with the clock during the day, it made it a little easier to remember and not forget. (Yes, even moms get distracted and lose track of how long it's been since they changed.) Read the package, but I genearlly nothing more than 4-6 hours, I think. I also usually try for pads a night since I at least hope to sleep for more than 4-6 hours, even if it doesn't always happen. There are some other options on the market, but I think they would be a little more difficult for new users. There's the cups that can also be inserted. I've tried them, and here's what I experienced. If you aren't a good tampon users, you'll want to wait before you try. Also, on the days that I had heavy flow, it actually caused me to have more painful cramps and had to be changed more frequently than if I had used tampons. up side, they are genearlly better for the environment. There are also cotton pads that can be washed. While see the environmental benefits, I'm just don't see myself carrying around a pad in my purse that needs to be washed. And there are unbleached pads and tampons that might be a little better for the environment and our health, but they are more expensive, and can be difficult to find. -
vicki , 9/14/2008 11:13:29 AM
should i wear tampons 4 marching band because we wear this white overalls that are tight -
destiny, 9/27/2008 12:51:24 AM
ok iam only 13 and i just had my period an i have no one to tolke to so i have had it 2 time and i love to use the kotex but my sis said to use always but i dont no do can some one give me some info -
bo, 9/27/2008 7:29:46 PM
ya there is tryuseingdiva cups. padsare just not good in thewater -
Alexandra, 10/17/2008 3:04:10 PM
Destiny,
It is your period and you should choose what you want to wear not your sister you know your body better that your sister does. I got my period when i was in 6th grade. I started off using Always btu then i didn't like it at all. so then i switched to Kotex Ultra thiin. Now i am in 7th grade i am using Playtex Gentle Glide Slender Light if you are on a swim team or any sports team i urge you to ask you mother if you can wear tampons so your pad may not loose the sticky side and fall out of your underwear. i urge you to use tampons during sports because a tampon cannot fall out of you unless you didnt put it in right or you didnt put it in far enough. -
Hey, 10/19/2008 8:50:57 AM
I want to tell my mom I want to use tampons. I am 14 and pads suck, I just don't know how top tell her. I put one on before, just to know how it feels like, but thats it. I didn't want to do it behind her back. Can you help me on what I can tell my mom? Moms, how do you think she will react? -
Sybil, 10/20/2008 8:29:34 PM
To 'Hey' I didn't want my girls (11 & 12) to use tampons but they swim a lot and one or the other was always missing out during the summer. I may know why your mom wants you to wait; she may just be afraid you will have trouble inserting a tampon or that you may not be responsible about changing. This is very important, and she needs to know you feel strongly about it. Some moms are really scared that their 'little girl' is growing up. Ask your mom to have a 'personal conversation' with you. To start your conversation, admit that you tried one on, and that it wasn't scary. That will take away some of her fears, and, hopefully, she will consider your honesty more important than your experimentation. Next, remind her that you are 14 and active and you will be careful about changing regularly. I didn't want my girls to use them right away, either, because I was afraid they would hurt themselves, but the smaller sizes worked well for them and everyone can go swimming together! You might also guide your mom to this website, to help her adjust to the idea. Last. I'm very proud of you that you don't want to do anything behind her back. She will be, too! Good luck, young lady! -
angel, 10/21/2008 7:53:25 AM
i think i am going to start soon i have all of the signs boobs,pubic hair dischage ect.i have already tried a pad and i spent the whole afternoon walking around like a penguin!but my mom already said i cant use tampons. i was thinking about using them any way.but am i wrong for that?and if i am not how do i get them without her knowing? -
Hey, 10/22/2008 4:04:42 PM
Sybil, thank you. -
penny, 11/6/2008 3:45:33 PM
I am about 4-6 mounth before I get my period but i dont know if im ready. my breast are very small and i have very little hair on my vagina but i do have hip but again short. I have gotten dishchare but i dont have an infection. Should i worry ,im so confused and i have talk to my mom but i still have question she can not answer. What do i do? -
Salina, 11/22/2008 10:19:01 AM
Wow I Have read about every single comment and like everyone was REALLY help full Thank you!:) -
Emily, 12/7/2008 12:02:52 AM
Hello,
I'm 15 years old, and started my period last year. I used a tampon on the second day of my first period. I think it is silly of parents to not let their daughters use tampons. My mom was fine with it, she actually brought it up. -
karly, 12/10/2008 4:55:46 PM
hey! i am 14 years old and i really want to start using tampons for my tumbling class. the only thing is, should i use slender? or regular? of course im going to use plastic. but idk what kind.
help me!
karly -
Eva, 12/29/2008 1:16:09 AM
Do I really need to wear a tampon when I am not on my period? I am 17 and I just started on Christmas day and I need the facts! -
Holdon, 1/4/2009 10:32:10 PM
To Eva: no no no, you should definitely NOT be wearing a tampon when not on your period. That is asking for trouble. If you're worried about discharge, use a pantiliner. -
Sharon, 1/7/2009 2:35:30 PM
I started my period two months before I turned sixteen, so that would be about almost eight years. I've been using pads for all that time. My sister, she's about four and a half years older than me, uses tampons and my mom used them before hers stopped. I read the instructions for inserting them and even saw the pictures. but I still don't know how or where to stick the darn things in! I want to use them because I'm sick and tired of being confined to pads. it also doesn't help that the schools I went to didn't offer sex education. -
karen, 1/14/2009 7:33:27 PM
i think some of the moms here a great!! good for you for giving your daughters a choice, and not being so uptight about tampons...my mother would never let me wear them, so i never learned about them until a friend told me about them...but by that time i was so freaked out about wearing them that i didnt start wearing them until i was well into my 20's...when i think about all those uncomfortable times as a teenager with the pads, yuk!! anyway, i have a 5 year old and when the time comes i will aboslutely educate her on tampons, it will be her choice. -
Tamika Jamison, 1/17/2009 6:03:48 PM
i like to used always pad -
Roberta, 2/2/2009 8:45:23 PM
I started my cycle at age 9 and just turned 40. My periods have always been heavy lasting 7-10 days. Tampons are a God send! My mom didn't want me to use them but being young and active meant I would have to if I wanted to participate in life. Back when I started the pads were those hospital sized boats and the ones for use with stickum on them were just coming out. They don't suddenly make you not a virgin and getting the variety pack is probably a good idea. I switch between Kotex brand and another that you use without the applicator depending on my flow and whether I'm on vacation, using a smaller purse, etc. I usually can only get by on one hour on day 1-3 so you can easily go through a box and often use a pad back up. At night, usually a pad so that I'm not spending 7-8 hours with the tampon in. -
kylaa, 2/8/2009 9:02:59 PM
i've been having my period for about 2 1/2 months and still going. how do i no wen to use a tampon? -
Hey, 2/10/2009 10:36:21 PM
For those first timers, one of my friends actually put some vaseline on the applicator before inserting. Though I personally don't do that, it might work.
As for the people trying to convince their mothers to let them use tampons...my mom was actually against me using it but she later relented when I said I needed it for the swimming team....or rather, the coach said I couldn't sit out practice every time I had my period....
As a side note, I actually use tampons because of my heavy flow...I have to use both pads and tampons at the same time, otherwise I'd end up having to change those pads every 2 hours or so... -
Lizzie, 2/20/2009 5:42:48 PM
Don't use vaseline when inserting them. Just use a water-based lubricant. Vaseline is petroleum-based and can cause bacteria to build up. Normally your period provides enough lubricant, though. :) -
curious delila, 2/27/2009 9:37:02 PM
hmmm....my friend lost her virginity to a tampon, i w nt to start using them, but i am afraid this will happen. how can this be possible??? help! -
alicia, 2/27/2009 10:02:09 PM
I am 15 years old and i can get a tampon in but it hurts. I am a dancer with skippy costumes and am having so much trouble. Mom has tried to help. But everybrand i have tried doesn't work. Is there something wrong that this is so much trouble should i see a gynogologist?. Any ideas or help is appreciated -
alyssa, 3/3/2009 8:07:40 PM
i like pads like soo much better than tampons... though i have never even used a tampon... but it soo looks like it is painful! my mom just got me a package of my first pads today. she came home from work with them. she showed me how to put them in my panties... though it was really and truly embarrassing ! LOL -
Rachel, 4/4/2009 11:30:04 PM
Hi...my little cousin got her period at 11 and has swimming in a few weeks..Im trying to get her to use tampons but she is afrid it is going to hurt..i also havent told her about TSS...what should i do? Thanks, -Rachel -
tosin, 4/23/2009 7:23:49 PM
i dont think there are tampons in nigeria cause if u r having ur period u dont swim but im sure we have.my mum hasnt introduced me to them but she introduced me to a pant with the pad already fixed in so u just throw the panties away they are comfortable but they keep leaking im losing my confidence in them and becoming more self concsious what should i do? -
Grace, 5/2/2009 12:19:06 PM
A lot of people are commenting saying that they cant use tampons because it hurts. The reason for this is because there is a vaginal "seal" and to put a tampon in you have to break it. It will hurt a little but only the first time you just have to be patient. I had a hard time the first time too, but my mom helped me by comforting me in my efforts. Dont worry, after a while it will become natural :) -
Rylie, 5/12/2009 9:04:29 PM
i think that moms should let their doughters use tampons. i started to have my period when i was 11 and i am 16 know and i started to use tampons on the 5 day (it last 5-7 days) at first it was hard to get in but when i read the book that came with it it went right in i know always use tampons ex bedtime -
cramp helper (hailey), 6/10/2009 12:23:03 AM
If you have bad cramps i read that bannanas really help! i tryed them and they worked for me. I hope they work for you. -
Becca, 6/15/2009 10:13:35 PM
let me clear up a few myths 1 you can not loose you virginity to a tampon so if you use one an your not sexuly active your still a virgin.2 your never too yong for tampons. they dont really hurt the first time i wore one it hurt and i sneezed and it hurt so bad i took it out but the second one didnot hurt it felt werd but after like 20 mins you dont feel any thing and you dont feel like your peeing on your self when you use tampons and you can swim with them -
help, 6/21/2009 5:16:09 PM
I tried tampons before and I had no problem inserting them, but taking them out was always extremely painful. I tried various sizes and I waited various lengths of time before removing them. I also had a lot of problems with leaks with tampons and ended up wearing a pad as well. Any suggestions? -
rylie, 6/23/2009 12:42:14 AM
tampons what can i say ii think they r soooo good i am on the swin=m team and i had my period 3 days befor the big swim team try outs my mom said to use th tampons and a first it hurt but aftre a wile i felt like it was gone i did not even fell it -
Tampon expert 33, 7/5/2009 2:30:04 PM
When I first starting tampons it took me about 1 or 2 months to use 1 comfortably. My mom and I were very open with each-other so when she found out I got my first period she bought me both tampons and pads. I didn't even want to try tampons but when summer came around and all my friends were swimming I knew I had to use one. The only thing that was holding me back before was that a very incorrect sex-ed teacher told us that using a tampon will make girls loose their virginity. It does not. You are still a virgin, using a tampon will probably tear your hymen. It will hurt but all girls are going to loose it sometime in life. you may as well get it over with. And it wont always hurt. Some physical activities and sports cause girls to tear their hymen early on. So I think that tampons are great, but I only use them in the water. but its your own preference first time users.
*Remember* Using a tampon will tear your hymen, but you will not loose your virginity.
-tip: be open with your mom or go to a best friends
even a very open teacher. -
Barbara, 7/6/2009 7:59:49 PM
I started using tampons or what my boyfriend calls draculas teabags when I was in junior high. ladies do not listen to people who says you cannot go in the water because it attracts sharks that is a lot of BS.tampons do not tear the hymen you are wrong -
Steph, 7/22/2009 10:12:38 PM
My mom was/is really against me using tampons but I went out and bought tampons myself and used them.
However, I'm on the swim team and my mom, being an extremely nosy/caring mother, records every time my period comes so she always "reminds" me of the week I can't swim. It was really annoying because I would lose my varsity letter for sitting out at least two weeks in the entire season becasue of my period.
I argued a lot with my mom, but eventually she gave in and went out and bought a huge box of tampons for me just to wear when I went swimming.
Still, i think tampons are more convenient because they don't make a mess and I wear them sometimes even if I'm not going swimming. -
michelle, 7/24/2009 1:42:43 PM
For those of you who actually think it's okay to swim wearing a pad or nothing at all when you are on your period, please stop! That's very unsanitary and quite honestly, inconsiderate. Would you want someone to get in the pool with you with a open oozing wound or a nosebleed? It's one thing for babies to swim in swim diapers and urinate in the pool. Urine is sterile as it is made up mostly of ammonia.The swim diaper will also keep solid poop contained. However, the blood cannot be contained by a pool soaked pad. I came to this site to get advice on whether or not I should let my 13 year old begin wearing tampons. I have decided based on the posts that she is ready...However, I feel I should let people know that it's a health risk for others if you decide to share your mentrual flow with the entire pool. There are many blood born illnesses that chlorine will not kill. Please be "others" oriented. -
pretty girl, 7/26/2009 12:50:20 PM
THE BETTER THING TO DO IS GET THE THICK PAD SO YOU WON'T GET YOUR PJAMAS DIRTY -
sally-ann, 8/8/2009 12:18:31 PM
LAURA, you have no idea how much better you have made me feel! im 15 and i have trouble getting them in (it wont go all the way in and it hurts) and i was really scared that i wouldnt be able to have sex because i read this article in a magazine about vaginismus. my mum didnt use them till after she had children so hopefully there's nothing wrong with me!! everyones comments have been so uplifting and helpful :) xxxx -
beth, 8/24/2009 10:00:55 AM
i am 13 years old i wany to use tampons but im frightened to talk to my mom about it. none of my friends wear them so i cannot talk to them. can you help me please on what i should do. should i just go out with my friend and buy some? -
Brittany, 9/3/2009 8:51:03 PM
i have tried wearing tampons and cant seem to put them on all the way!! my mom was against it but i talked to my aunt and she convinced my mom but now i cant put them in all the way!! i get them in almost all the way but cant put them in the rest of the way!! no one but my aunt can help cuz my mom doesnt use them!! any friends out there to help plz !! im out of options. -
13yr old Pain Reliever, 9/16/2009 2:02:20 PM
yeah i'm just sticking with pad's even tho they feel like diapers. i like em and i will use them until i stop my period forever(hallelujah)
this website is magically it stopped my cramps lol -
Dorothy Wong, 11/24/2009 8:29:49 PM
Sorry, would like to know where to purchase the Kotex Belt for Loop pads. Thanks -
Hayley-super scared!, 12/30/2009 2:58:24 AM
well ive read almost every single comment here, and some scare me. tearing my hymen when i put a tampon in?? im soo scared....mostly of the pain and that i wont do it right. so you insert it horizontally, not vertically?? i havent started my period yet but i know it will be soon, should i automatically start using tampons to get it over with?? or wait till my 2nd or 3rd cycle? i am 13....and really scared!! -
MOM ,, 1/19/2010 1:37:49 PM
All i have to say is YOU CAN GO IN THE SWIMING POOl Without a pad or a tampon , i Know it sounds a little wierd but while I was on Vaction my daughter had her Monthly Soon when you hit the Chlorione it washes away , but when you come out just hurry home & jump in the shower & pur on a pad or tampon -
Whisper_Dawn, 2/23/2010 12:19:17 AM
Have you guys ever wonder why your period before like that big swimming trip or something?? I'm 14 and if never used a tampon, but this last this (2009) my cousin wanted to go swimming, so she told me to put a tampon on. It took me 5 tries! And even when I had it in, it hurt really really bad. So I just took it out and not swam. But this summer when I go vist I want to go swimming, and not have to worry about my period. What would be a good tampon for some one who is sporty, and for someone that has never worn a tampon before??
-
Hayley, 3/14/2010 10:12:24 PM
I have gymnastics tomorrow and I can't wear a pad, but I have tried multiple times to use a tampon and I just can't get it to go in. What do I do?
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