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Pearl Compak

Tampax 2015

Pearl

Tampax_1936

[Tampax Cotton Protection](/en-gb/our-tampons/cotton-protection/) are tampons free of dyes, fragrances, and chlorine bleaching. They have the trusted, long-lasting protection expected from Tampax with a plant-based plastic applicator and are 100% organic cotton.

* 100% Organic Cotton Core tampon
* 0% dyes and fragrances
* Tampax trusted leak-free protection

DIRECT FROM THE COTTON FIELD

History of tampax tampons

Cotton Protection

# Feminine hygiene tips you need to know 

__So, what's a ‘normal’ cycle anyway?__

First of all, stop thinking about normal. Every girl is different. What’s important is that you find out what’s normal for you; a period [tracker](/en-gb/period-tracker-and-calendar/) will help you to do just that. All cycles are unique, but between pre-period, period and ovulation, there are a few things we all have in common: 

__Pre-period__

The dreaded [premenstrual syndrome](/en-gb/period-health/what-is-premenstrual-syndrome-pms/). Some common symptoms of PMS are headaches, bloating, irritability and crying more than usual. In other words, that urge to sit on the couch in joggers with a tub of ice cream and cry over ‘The Notebook’. We’ve all been there. 

It’s common to experience PMS in the three days leading up to your period. And just so you know: diet, caffeine and [stress](/en-gb/period-health/stress-and-period/) can increase the intensity of PMS symptoms. 

While these symptoms can be painful and uncomfortable, the good news is there are ways to help manage them: 

- Resist the urge to have an extra cup of coffee 
- Take an over-the-counter painkiller 
- Use a hot water bottle. 

__Period__

This is the start of your cycle and when bleeding begins. But why do we bleed in the first place? Since your egg wasn’t fertilised, your womb lining sheds and leaves your body. Thus, blood. 

Here are some facts about periods: 

- Healthy periods generally last between four and seven days, with the heaviest days being the first and second 
- An average cycle is 28 days, but can range from 21 to 35 days (to work yours out use a [period cycle tracker](/en-gb/period-tracker/)) 
- Bleeding usually amounts to somewhere between 10-80 grams, or 1 to 6 tablespoons of fluid (not that we’re measuring, but it’s good to know for keeping track of tampon changes). 

See your doctor if you find yourself bleeding through six or seven regular tampons a day, or if you’re on your period for more than seven days. 

__Peak ovulation__

This is the time when you’re ovulating and at the highest risk for pregnancy. This fertile time lasts about six days. In a 28-day cycle, ovulation typically occurs on day 14. 

__How to track your period__

To calculate your period, you'll need to count the days in between your last few periods. Start counting on the first day of your period and stop counting on the day before your next period. This is the number of days in one menstrual cycle. Do this for a few cycles, then add up the total number of days and divide them by the number of cycles. This will give you the average number of days in your cycle, and once you know this number, you'll be able to track your period easily. 

Have more [period questions](/en-gb/period-health/period-health/signs-and-stages-of-puberty-for-girls/)? We have answers. 

Period Calendar Bottom Text

Try TAMPAX Cotton Protection. A 100% organic cotton tampon core, tested for harmful substances and packed in cartons made from recycled materials.

Tampax 100% Organic Cotton Core Tampon

__NOW, FOR THE FIRST TIME, YOU COULD HAVE FULL TRACEABILITY OF YOUR TAMPON.__

Via Blockchain Technology, Tampax provides the platform for you to learn more about the origin of the cotton and trace its journey, from when and where it was harvested to how it was made into your tampon.

To do so, simply scan the QR code on the pack via your mobile phone.

Don't have a product with you right now? No worries. Take a look at how the cotton is grown, harvested and purified...

NOW, FOR THE FIRST TIME, YOU COULD HAVE FULL TRACEABILITY OF YOUR TAMPON.

Compak

Tampax 1986

Up to 100% Leak & Odor Free Protection that fits in your pocket.

Tampax

Tampax Cotton Protection tampons have the trusted, long-lasting protection expected from Tampax.

Discover Tampax Cotton Protection Organic Tampons

Pearl Compak Regular 18 pack

Tampax 2019

Pearl 

Tampax’s N°1 combination of comfort and protection

About Us

About

Regular 16 pack

## Traceability guaranteed

Trace the journey of the organic cotton in your Tampax Cotton Protection tampons, from when and where it was harvested, to how it was made into the tampon you know with 3rd party <a href="https://eu.pg.treum.io/en-gb/landing" target="_blank"> Blockchain Technology </a>.

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Tampon Truths

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100% Organic Cotton Core Tampon

You were rummaging through your room and you came across an old box of [tampons](/en-gb/tampon-truths/what-is-tampon/). It got you wondering – how long do tampons last? Do tampons expire? We know things like milk expire making them rancid and totally disgusting to eat, and that things like medications expire making them ineffective. But what about tampons? Do tampons have an expiration date? 

## Do tampons have an expiration date? 

So, here’s the short answer: yes. Tampons can expire. Why does this matter? Tampons go inside your body, which is why it’s important to pay attention to whether or not your tampons have expired. 

Generally speaking, tampons expire after five years. 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. 

## How do I know if my tampons have expired? 

You may not know that your tampons have expired just from looking at them. Instead, look for the expiration date on the side of your Tampax box. There will be two dates printed. One is the date of production, and the other is the month and year your tampons are due to expire. 

The good news is that tampons last a long time – half a decade! So, don’t worry about buying a supply and not being able to use them up before their expiration date. Five years is lots of time to use them – especially when you’re using them monthly during your [period](/en-gb/period-health/period-questions/) to go [swimming](/en-gb/period-health/can-you-swim-on-your-period/), to the beach and sporting events.

Don't want to give up on your training or physical exercises during your period, but are afraid about possible leakage? Worry not - [Tampax Pearl Compak Regular](/en-gb/our-tampons/pearl-compak-with-applicator/regular/) tampons come with a unique MotionFit technology that gently expands and fits your body's unique shape, while a LeakGuard braid prevents any leakage before it even happens. With Tampax Pearl tampons you can exercise to your heart's content!


Can tampons expire? 

Feminine hygiene tips you need to know 

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Cotton Field

Tampax_1934

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Intimate hygiene is so much more than just showering regularly. Try these feminine hygiene tips for a fresh, clean, and (most importantly) healthy vagina.

Feminine Hygiene Tips Every Girl Should Know

Up to 100% Leak & Odor Free Protection that fits in your pocket. Discover Tampax Compak - tampon small in size for protection on the go.

Tampax Compak Tampons with Applicator

Organics Harvesting

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UK- ADP - Can tampons expire? 

Can tampons expire?

Period Tracker

__Why should I use a period tracker?__

Do you wonder each month when your period is due? Using a [period cycle tracker](/en-gb/period-tracker-and-calendar/), like our [TAMPAX period tracker](/en-gb/period-tracker-and-calendar/), can give you a heads up so you’re never surprised when that time of the month rolls around. You’ll know exactly when to expect it. When you track your cycle with a period [tracker](/en-gb/period-tracker-and-calendar/) and know when to have tampons on hand, you can face every day with greater confidence. 

### Period Tracker

You’ve probably never really thought about when tampons were invented, or even who invented them. Why would you? We’ve been fortunate enough to have never lived during a time where tampons didn’t exist, but up until 1929, the most common method for women to deal with their period each month was with bulky pads, usually made of some type of thick cloth. As you can imagine, those weren’t really the most convenient or comfortable way to manage your monthly flow. This is where we came in. While tampons as we know them today were invented in 1929, it wasn’t until 1934 when our fearless female founder bought the patent and started a female-led and female-focused company. Tampax has been educating and empowering women and those who bleed to live life without limits since then. Tampons have revolutionised how we deal with our periods. From introducing a product that helped women join the workforce in the 1930s to normalising conversations around women's health and period care, Tampax has a long history of game-changing moments that promote wellbeing for all. 

Keep reading to learn some of the most fascinating moments in Tampax (and tampon) history. 

## Timeline 

### 1931
#### Where it all began
An inventor patents a new kind of period product made of compressed cotton with a string in the centre and housed in a paper tube. This was the birth of the modern-day tampon.

History of Tampax tampons 

Period health

Period Health

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History of Tampax tampons

Intimate hygiene is so much more than just showering regularly (which – of course – is a must!). 

Try these feminine hygiene tips for a fresh, clean, and (most importantly) healthy vagina. 

## Wash your vagina every day 

[Keeping yourself clean is perhaps one of the most important feminine hygiene tips there is](/en-gb/period-health/vaginal-odor-what-should-my-vagina-smell-like/). Especially as you move through puberty, the changes in your body make good personal hygiene all the more critical. Things like getting your period, daily [vaginal discharge](/en-gb/period-health/vaginal-discharge/) and increased sweat from your sweat glands make keeping clean increasingly important for [teenage girls](/en-gb/period-health/period-health/signs-and-stages-of-puberty-for-girls/). Washing your intimate area daily is just the first step. 

## Wash the outside of your vagina only 

The inside of your vagina has its very own self-cleaning mechanism. It doesn’t need to be washed, scrubbed, or cleaned – this also means no douching. Stick to washing just the outside of your vagina, which is actually called the vulva. The vulva includes the inner and outer vaginal lips and the clitoris. 

## Try pH-balanced feminine washes 

Regular soaps and shower gels aren’t designed to be used on your vaginal area, because they have a pH level designed for the surface of your skin. Your skin has a pH of 5.5, whereas a healthy vaginal pH level ranges from 3.8 to 4.5. Using regular soap can alter the pH of your vagina and upset its delicate bacterial balance, which is what keeps it healthy and free of infection. Instead, try using a special wash intended for use on your intimate area. You can find feminine hygiene washes that are pH-balanced for your vagina in the feminine care section of the supermarket or pharmacy. In case of doubt, don’t be afraid to ask your GP or gynaecologist for advice. 

## Avoid using gloves or sponges to wash your intimate area 

Female hygiene doesn’t require any special equipment – just some feminine wash and water. The skin of your intimate area is very sensitive and can be irritated by abrasive materials like gloves, sponges and loofahs. Plus, bacteria tend to build up and grow on things like sponges and gloves, and you don’t want to introduce them into your vagina. Your hands are enough to achieve good personal hygiene. 

## Use a soft towel to dry the area 

To dry off after a shower or bath, use a towel that is soft and completely dry. An important hygiene tip for girls especially is to change your towel every two to three days – and don’t share your towel with anyone else. 

## Don’t point water directly at your vagina 

This feminine care tip prevents outside bacteria from entering your vagina. When washing your intimate area, don’t aim the stream of water directly into your vagina. Instead, let the water run down from the top of your pubic area over your vagina. 

## Wipe front to back 

You may have heard this personal hygiene tip before, but it’s worth a reminder. When you go to the loo, be sure to wipe front to back – and never back to front! This ensures that no harmful bacteria from your anus get into your vagina. If they do, these bacteria can create an uncomfortable (and smelly!) infection – like a urinary tract infection – that would require antibiotics in order to clear it up. 

## Wear cotton underwear 

Wearing cotton underwear is important for good personal hygiene. Cotton is a very breathable fabric, so it allows any excess moisture from sweat or discharge to evaporate, instead of becoming a breeding ground for bacteria (and unpleasant odours!). This doesn’t mean that the pair of knickers must be made entirely of cotton, just the crotch insert. 

## Wear a pantyliner 

Wear a [pantyliner](https://www.always.co.uk/en-gb/tips-and-advice-for-women/vaginal-discharge/what-are-panty-liners/) daily to help absorb vaginal discharge. Discharge is healthy – it’s your body’s way of cleansing your vagina from toxins and staying clean and moisturised. But this doesn’t mean you have to be uncomfortable in a wet pair of knickers. Wearing a pantyliner every day is a great feminine hygiene tip. [Panty liners](https://www.always.co.uk/en-gb/tips-and-advice-for-women/vaginal-discharge/wearing-panty-liners-everyday/) work just like [pads](/en-gb/tampon-truths/tampons-vs-pads/), but they’re much thinner and can be used daily to absorb discharge and keep you feeling clean and dry. [ALWAYS Dailies](https://www.always.co.uk/en-gb/feminine-products/panty-liners/always-dailies-fresh-and-protect/always-dailies-normal-to-go-normal-panty-liners/) are super thin and flexible for a barely-there feeling that will keep you feeling fresh all day long – like you just put on a new pair of knickers. 

## Drink up 

We’ve all heard the saying “you are what you eat”. Well, in your vagina’s case, “you are what you drink”. Sugary drinks can affect the bacterial balance of your vagina, and so can being dehydrated. Be sure to drink plenty of water to give your body a boost when it comes to flushing out toxins and keeping your vagina clean and healthy. 

Incorporate these intimate hygiene tips into your life in order to keep your vagina clean and healthy, and to keep you smiling and confident. 

Tampax 1951

The tampon gently expands to fit your body’s unique shape and has a smooth layer for easy removal.

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Tampax 1997

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Wondering when you should get your period? Use the official TAMPAX period tracker & calendar and don't let your period surprise you ever again!

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Period Tracker & Calendar

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UK- ADP -Feminine hygiene tips you need to know 

Tampax Compak tampons have been tested for harmful substances, the tampon is small in size for protection on the go.

The Cardboard applicator helps you feel confident. These tampons have an absorbent core that offers up to eight hours of TAMPAX protection. Find out more here.

TAMPAX Tampons with Cardboard Applicator

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Tampax Cotton Thumb

Tampax 2002

Our tampons are designed to give you the comfort and protection you need. Learn more about product details with the comparison chart below.

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Cotton Protection Pack

Pearl Regular 16 pack

UK- ADP - History of Tampax tampons

The History of Tampax

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## Features and benefits

* __100% Cotton__*
Each step in the process is handled in line with organic farming & production guidelines.
* __Certified by STANDARD 100 by Oeko-Tex__
Tested for harmul substances. Independent label.
* __Free of chlorine bleach__
The cotton purification process is free of chlorine and other chemicals not approved by the organic standard.
* __Tampax MotionFit technology and LeakGuard braid__
Giving you the comfort and protection that you want.

*100% organic cotton core tampon. As a natural material, the organic cotton may contain small coloured specks.

Features and benefits

The Cardboard applicator tampons have an anti-slip grip, a leakguard skirt, and an absorbent core that offers up to eight hours of Tampax protection.

Cardboard Regular 20 pack

A 100% organic cotton tampon core, tested for harmful substances and packed in cartons made from recycled materials.

Products - Cotton Protection

Our products

Vist our website and learn more about the history of tampons and TAMPAX from its founding to the present day.

History of Tampax Tampons

There's no official holiday for you when you’re having your period. You go to work or school or stay at home, just like you do on every other day, and you are most likely going to be engaged for hours.

Direct from the Cotton Field

Features and benefits

Designed with the environment in mind

Traceability guaranteed