How to Choose the Right Tampon Absorbency

We think tampons are great. But there are so many different tampon absorbencies out there and picking the right tampon absorbency is key for staying comfortable. Using too high of an absorbency can dry out your vagina, making it uncomfortable to remove your tampon. Using too low of an absorbency can result in unending trips to the bathroom to change your tampon.

First, know your flow. Having a heavy period day? Pick a higher absorbency tampon. If it’s towards the end of your period and your flow is light, pick a lower absorbency.

Many girls have a higher flow at the beginning of their period and a lighter flow on the last few days of their period. That’s why you may need to use a heavy flow tampon at the beginning of your period, while you may not need the most absorbent tampon by the end. You may want to keep a few different absorbencies at home and switch between them depending what day of your period you’re on. That way, you can, well, go with the flow! So, for instance, while you might wear a heavy flow tampon on Day 1 of your period, you may only need a light tampon on Day 4 of your period.

Next, know your tampons. TAMPAX has an absorbency for every flow: Lite, Regular, Super and Super Plus. As you can see in this tampon absorbency chart, light tampons are best for your lightest flow days and Super Plus absorbency tampons are best for your heaviest days because they are the most absorbent tampons.

If you are using a tampon for the first time, use the lowest absorbency from the tampon absorbency chart. We recommend TAMPAX Pearl Compak Lite. They have a rounded tip making them super comfortable and easy to insert.

Here’s how to know when you need to adjust up or down to a more absorbent tampon or a less absorbent tampon:

1. If there is still a lot of white on your tampon when you remove it after 4 to 8 hours, try the next absorbency down.
2. If you bleed through the tampon string or onto your knickers, consider using a higher absorbency tampon.
3. 3. If you have to change your tampon more than every 4 hours, consider using a higher absorbency tampon.

No matter which absorbency you’re using, never wear a tampon for more than 8 hours to minimize any risk of infection like Toxic Shock Syndrome. Read more about TSS here.