How to use tampons for the first time 

Period Tracker & Product Recommender

Period Tracker & Flow Combo

P&G Everyday

Header

Always_header

Always

Contact Us

Welcome on Tampax Contact Us page. How can we help you?

TAMPAX Contact US Page

Country selector

TAMPAX products are available in many countries. Select your country and language here.

TAMPAX Country Selector

Sign In

Sign in

My profile

Register

Register with us and find a wide selection of hygiene products for women as well as useful menstrual infromation!

Create Profile

Search

Pearl Compak

Tampax 2015

Articles

Step-by-step Guide

Tampax

With so many different absorbencies and varieties available, you may be wondering which tampons to choose. Read more about it in this article.

Why use TAMPAX Pearl tampons?

Why use Tampax Pearl tampons?

Worried about a Lost Tampon or Getting a Tampon Stuck?

Leaks are no fun at all during your period, but even less so if you like to stay active and fit at "that time of the month". Thankfully, you can try wearing [Tampax Pearl Compak Regular](/en-gb/our-tampons/pearl-compak-with-applicator/regular/) tampons, which provide safe and effective menstrual protection for women with light to medium flow. A practical applicator, the LeakGuard braid and MotionFit technology provide you protection that you can trust. 


Leaks are no fun

By Dr Melisa Holmes, OB-GYN & Founder of Girlology 

As a gynaecologist, I love helping people understand their bodies and how they work. It’s important for people to educate themselves and take charge of their health. Sometimes, in an effort to research an illness or health concern, people find unreliable sources online, and they end up with information that’s not only wrong, but sometimes even dangerous. I’m glad you’ve come to the right place. 

When it comes to tampons, I’ve probably heard it all! So here are nine common myths I’ve heard over and over, and the medically accurate facts to bust them. 

Do you know the truth about tampons? Let’s find out. 

## MYTH: Tampons take away your virginity. 

FACT: That’s not possible. A tampon is just a period protection product. It has nothing to do with virginity, which is about sex. This concern is mostly based on whether a tampon will affect the hymen, which is a thin, stretchy rim of tissue that surrounds the vaginal opening. A tampon is small enough to fit through most vaginal openings without affecting the hymen, but the hymen can change shape or “break” with age, weight, and even normal physical activities – not just sex. You can learn more in this guide [Do tampons take your virginity?](/en-gb/tampon-truths/do-tampons-take-your-virginity/). 

## MYTH: Tampons can get lost inside you. 

FACT: A tampon can get pushed higher up into your vagina, and the string can even get tucked up there, but it’s not lost. It’s still in there. That’s because your cervix is a barrier between your vagina and your uterus, so basically, your vagina is a dead-end. 

## MYTH: Tampons cause TSS. 

FACT: Tampons don’t cause Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS); it’s caused by a strain of bacteria called staphylococcus aureus. TSS is very rare, but also very treatable, especially when it’s identified early. Learn more about [Toxic Shock Syndrome and tampons](/en-gb/period-health/toxic-shock-syndrome-causes-treatment/) here. 

## MYTH: You shouldn’t use a tampon on your first period. 

FACT: There is no age requirement for using tampons. Once someone has a period, they are old enough to use tampons (and their vagina is big enough to use a tampon without fear of injury or unusual pain). If you’re new to periods or to tampons, just make sure you know how to use them correctly and safely. Expecting your first period or new to periods? Check out [this guide](/en-gb/period-health/first-period/) for getting your first period and menstrual cycle. 

## MYTH: Tampons increase your risk for endometriosis. 

FACT: Tampons have no effect on endometriosis. There’s still more to learn about the causes of endometriosis, but one cause is related to menstrual flow going “backwards” out of the fallopian tubes. Some people think a tampon could block the cervix and send the period blood “backwards” into the uterus and out of the fallopian tubes, which just isn’t possible. Tampons can’t block the cervix, and if they get full, the overflow goes out of the vagina, not back into the uterus. 

## MYTH: You should change your tampon every time you pee. 

FACT: You urinate from your urethra. Your tampon goes in your vagina (which is behind the urethra). You can pee without getting your tampon wet. When you pee, it’s a good idea to move the tampon string to the side or back so it doesn’t get soaked by your urine stream – a wet string can feel unpleasant. Just change your tampon when it needs to be changed based on your flow, not your bladder. [Learn more about what you can (and can’t) do with a tampon here](/en-gb/tampon-truths/things-you-can-and-can-t-do-with-a-tampon/). 

## MYTH: Tampons stretch out your vagina. 

FACT: No way. Vaginas are stretchy to begin with – if a baby can come out of a vagina, a tampon can easily go in without changing anything. 

## MYTH: Organic tampons are safer than non-organic ones. 

FACT: There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that organic tampons are any safer for your vagina. The risk of TSS is the same whether your tampons are organic or not. Tampax makes tampons with a 100% organic cotton core (Tampax Pure), as well as conventional tampons, because it’s nice to have choices. If living an organic lifestyle is important to you, then organic tampons may be the right choice. But if you don’t use organic tampons, don’t feel anxious or guilty. The safety profile is no different. 

There you have it, nine common myths about tampons busted by a gynaecologist!

If you're an active woman, at "that time of the month" you need comfort and confidence that there won't be any leak during your exercises. [Tampax Pearl Compak Regular](/en-gb/our-tampons/pearl-compak-with-applicator/regular/) tampons are designed to provide you with full period protection no matter what physical activity you're up to: swimming, running, skating, ballet, gymnastics - you name it.

A gynaecologist busts nine common myths about tampons

Step by step Guide

## Yes, you can swim on your period. 

Good news – yes, you can go swimming on your period! If it’s a hot summer’s day at the beach or you’re swimming laps at your local pool and you’ve got your period, you shouldn’t have to worry about leaving a trail of blood or being attacked by a shark in the ocean (a legitimate fear for some people!). It’s safe to hit the water on your period, as long as you wear a tampon or [menstrual cup](/en-gb/period-health/menstrual-cups/) while you’re swimming. Read on for some facts about swimming on your period and what period products can help (and which ones you should probably avoid altogether). 

## Best tampons for swimming 

Tampons are specifically designed to absorb period flow before it can leave your body, which makes them one of the best products to use for swimming on your period. You won’t have to worry about signs of your period showing in the water. Pads are made to absorb period flow too, but as they’re worn outside of the body – and would be great at absorbing all that pool water too – you’d end up with a soggy bottom and looking like you were wearing a nappy (not the vibe we’re going for). So, do yourself a favour and leave the pads at home. All Tampax tampons can be worn while swimming in any kind of water, and [only Tampax tampons have a LeakGuard Braid](/en-gb/our-tampons/) to help stop leaks before they happen – giving you all-day comfort and protection for up to six hours.  

Have a look at [how to insert](/en-gb/tampon-truths/how-to-insert-a-tampon/) a tampon and practice a few times before you head into the water – especially if using a tampon is new to you. Be sure to tuck the string into the lining of your swimming costume before you leave the bathroom, and you should be good to go. 

## Can you wear a menstrual cup while swimming? 

Like tampons, [menstrual cups](/en-gb/period-health/menstrual-cups/) are worn internally and so can be worn while swimming in any kind of water. Menstrual cups give you an additional option when it comes to pool day period solutions, but there are a few important things to consider before you decide. If you’re looking to pack light and make room in your beach bag, a menstrual cup might be a good choice; they’re made of medical grade silicone and are reusable, so you only need to pack or wear one and can use it all day. It’s invisible and mostly sensation-free if inserted in the right position. Even better is that you can wear a Tampax Cup for up to 12 hours at a time, giving you the freedom to insert your menstrual cup at home, wear it all day and remove it when you’re back home at the end of the day. However, a downside of the menstrual cup is that because it’s reusable, if you need to clean it and re-insert it while you’re out and about, you will need to clean it by rinsing with mild soap and water every time, which could be challenging in a public toilet. Not to mention the fact that you do not want your menstrual cup getting any amount of sand on it! 

## Other tips for swimming on your period 

Being on your period might cause your face to break out in pimples and make your skin blotchy, which isn’t great for a day out on the water. Reach for a high-SPF sunscreen especially formulated for your face, and top it off with a tinted moisturiser to even out your skin tone and conceal any redness. If all else fails, grab some oversized sunglasses and your favourite hat to shade your face from the sun. 

Stomach bloating and period cramps also have no place at the beach or poolside. Steer clear of salty, fried and fatty foods, as well as caffeine. Stay hydrated with water, herbal iced tea, refreshing lemonade, and fresh fruit and veg. Some people swear by hot water and lemon to reduce bloating – figure out what works best for you. 

## Does water pressure stop my period when I swim? 

It’s complicated. Essentially, it may *appear* as though you’ve stopped bleeding when you swim, but it’s actually physics at work. Because water creates more resistance than air, when you’re swimming in a pool, lake, ocean, or even just lying in the bath, there is pressure against the opening of your vagina that can temporarily prevent blood from coming out. Swimming or being in water does not stop your period altogether (we wish!) – once you exit the water, the pressure is gone and you’ll likely start bleeding again. 

## Will period blood attract sharks? 

A fair question. The simple answer is no; period blood does not attract sharks. So, breathe a sigh of relief – your beach holiday that your period happens to fall on is not a disaster waiting to happen. No worries and no shark attacks! While a lot of people like to joke about this, the science behind it proves that there’s no correlation between menstruating people and an increase in shark attacks. The amount of blood lost throughout an menstrual cycle (lasting anywhere from 3-7 days) is merely six tablespoons, so the small amount lost during a swim in the sea would be very low – and very unlikely to send any nearby sharks into frenzy. 

There you have it. Your answer and guide to if can you go swimming on your period. Hopefully you’ll have peace of mind the next time you swim in the ocean on your period. 

Effective and easy-to-use anti-leak protection during "that time of the month" for a physically active woman? With [Tampax Pearl Compak Regular](/en-gb/our-tampons/pearl-compak-with-applicator/regular/) tampons it's absolutely possible, as these tampons have unique MotionFit technology that gently expands to fit your body's unique shape. That's not all, though: the LeakGuard braid is there as well in order to prevent any leakage before it even happens!

Can You Swim on Your Period

Pearl

Tampax_1936

When it comes to using tampons, practice makes perfect and there’s nothing to be nervous about.

Black woman on roller skates riding outdoors

How to use a tampon

How to Use a Tampon

UK- ADP - How to Remove a Tampon

Many girls hold off using tampons because they feel unsure of how to put in a tampon and how to remove a tampon. We're here to help you with the second part!

How to Remove a Tampon

How to remove a tampon?

# How often you should change your tampon?

Tampons for beginners 

# Pearl Compak

Can you flush tampons down the toilet? 

 UK- ADP - Tampons for beginners

Tampons for beginners

Things You Can (and Can’t) Do With a Tampon

If you’ve never used one before, using a tampon for the first time can seem a bit daunting at first. But once you get it right, it’ll only take a moment. The secret to tampons for beginners is to relax and don’t try to [insert a tampon](/en-gb/tampon-truths/how-to-insert-a-tampon/) when you’re not on your period. We’ll help you learn how to use a tampon for the first time. 

## How to put a tampon in for the first time 

We’ve pulled together several tips to help you use a tampon effortlessly: 

- Practise inserting a tampon when your period flow is medium to heavy. 
- Find a position that is comfortable for you. Some people find it easier to crouch down with their knees apart, or to stand with one foot on the toilet seat or edge of the bath. Try different positions to find one that works for you. 
- Wash your hands before unwrapping the tampon, even if you’re using an [applicator](/en-gb/tampon-truths/how-to-insert-a-tampon/) tampon. 
- Stretch the cord of the tampon before you insert it. 
- Tilt the tampon slightly backwards and not straight up when you insert it. This way the tampon will follow the natural slope of your vagina. 
- Remove the tampon if you can feel it straight after insertion. You’ll need to insert another one – try to push it a little further in. 
- Wrap the used applicator in a tissue and throw it in the bin. Dispose of used tampons in the same way. 

Every pack of [Tampax](/en-gb/our-tampons/) comes with a step-by-step guide and this can be used as a guide to tampons for [beginners](/en-gb/tampon-truths/tampons-for-beginners/). Please make sure that you take a look at this before using a tampon for the first time. 

Check out Tampax’s new step-by-step guide to tampons and watch super helpful videos from a partnership with Tyla:

-	[Busting common tampon myths](https://www.instagram.com/tv/CP8aV5XKUTw/)
-	[Reinventing tampon instructions](https://www.instagram.com/tv/CQOitocKyuQ/)
-	[Tampon sceptics give tampons another go](https://www.instagram.com/tv/CQjJG6AKxo5/)


UK- ADP - Why can I feel my tampon?

Why can I feel my tampon?

Tampax tampon absorbency

Why use Tampax Pearl tampons? 

Things you can (and can’t) do with a tampon

Tampax tampons absorbency that fits your period flow

History of tampax tampons

Cotton Protection

What is a tampon? 

How to insert a tampon

Tampax Pearl Compak Regular 16ct

# 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

Why Can I Feel My Tampon

How to decide between pads and tampons

Compak

Tampax 1986

How-To-Insert-a-Tampon

How to use

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

# Compak

Worried about a lost tampon or getting a tampon stuck?

Learn about different absorbencies and find out the right tampon and tampon sizes for heavy and light days.

Types of Tampax tampons

UK- ADP - How to insert a tampon

Follow these easy step-by-step instructions for how to insert and use a tampon. Learn how to remove a tampon and when you should change it out

Tampax_UK_EN/Articles/how_to_insert_feat_img.png

How to Insert a Tampon

How To Insert a Tampon

How to insert a tampon?

Working out on your period can be easier if you use the right period product. Discover Tampax tampons, the best choice for exercise during your period.

Tampax tampons: the best solution for active people exercising on their periods

Tampax 2019

How__to__use__a__tampon

Tampax_UK_EN/PeriodCalculatorImage_658x658.jpg

Period Tracker Image

Pearl 

Tampax’s N°1 combination of comfort and protection

# Pearl

The needs of physically active women – be they athletes, personal trainers, workers with long commutes, parents running after kids, or those enjoying sports recreationally – are very specific, particularly during their menstrual cycles. Their routines demand consistent freedom of movement, security, and comfort, no matter what phase of their cycle they're in. Tampax with its mission to address women's everyday needs, offers tampons specifically designed to support your active lifestyle during your period.

__Table of contents:__
<ul>
  <li><a href="#empowering-active-people-with-Tampax-tampons">Empowering active people with Tampax tampons</a></li>
  <li><a href="#giving-active-women-the-edge-with-Tampax-Tampons">Giving Active Women the Edge with Tampax Tampons</a></li>
  <li><a href="#female-footballers-about-their-experience-with-tampons">Female footballers about their experience with tampons</a></li>
    <li><a href="#women-on-the-Go-Choose-Tampax">Women on the Go Choose Tampax</a></li>
  <li><a href="#products-designed-with-active-lifestyle-in-mind">Products designed with an active lifestyle in mind</a></li>
  <li><a href="#tampax-Pearl-Compak-Tampons-–-unlock-the-advantages-of-MotionFit">Tampax Pearl Compak Tampons – unlock the advantages of MotionFit</a></li>
<li><a href="#stay-active-during-your-period-with-tampax">Stay active during your period with Tampax</a></li>
 </ul>

<h2 id="empowering-active-people-with-Tampax-tampons">Empowering active people with Tampax tampons</h2>

Tampax tampons are more than just period products – they are essential tools to help active women maintain their routines throughout their cycle, even during menstruation. Let’s discover how these unique tampons can give you flexibility and freedom to do what makes you feel good on your period:
1.	Exceptional Comfort: Tampax tampons are designed with your comfort in mind. The slim design and smooth, easy-to-use applicator ensure a comfortable fit, helping you to forget you’re even wearing a tampon. No more discomfort during your workout, instead, enjoy the freedom to move with ease and comfort!
2.	Motion Fit Technology: Tampax Pearl Compak tampons have amazing technology that adapts to your unique shape, as well as your daily movements. This ensures you can continue your exercise routines or busy lifestyles while still feeling comfortable and protected.
3.	Leak guard Braid: Tampax Pearl Compak tampons have a leakguard braid, which helps to catch leaks before they even happen. This design offers an extra layer of protection so you can continue your routine without hassle. 
4.	High-Quality Protection: Tampax tampons are engineered to offer superior leakage protection, even during activity. The high-absorbency material and innovative design ensure that you feel confident and secure, no matter how intensive your training is.
5.	Customized Fit: With different absorbency levels available, you can choose the tampon that best suits your flow and exercise routine. This customization ensures that you feel confident and comfortable during each phase of your menstrual cycle.
6.	Healthy and Safe: Tampax products are designed with your health in mind and are gynecologically tested. They have also been tested for harmful substances according to Standard 100 by Oeke-Tex. 
Tampax’s active commitment to providing solutions for women’s everyday problems is not just about creating period products – it’s about enabling you to embrace your lifestyle! 

<h2 id="giving-active-women-the-edge-with-Tampax-Tampons">Giving Active Women the Edge with Tampax Tampons</h2>

Whether you’re smashing a new personal best, trying to walk a little further each day, or working hard to play for a team, sport is all about pushing your boundaries and connecting with others. Pro athlete or a casual fitness enthusiast, we know that confidence, determination, and sticking to your routine is half the battle. The key is feeling comfy and confident so that your other priorities take centre stage. You want to be focusing on every rep, each mile and every single yoga pose to get the most out of your time and get the results you're after. 
Getting the most out of your workout means using period products that are like a second skin, tailored to you and your body. Well, that's where Tampax tampons come into play. They've got the back of every busy or active woman out there. Whether you're out for a run, doing a few laps in the pool, smashing a fitness class, or stretching out through yoga, Tampax tampons are there with you. They're all about maximum comfort and flexibility, adjusting to whatever your body needs. 
You can focus on sticking to your routine and doing whatever makes you feel good on your period. It's no surprise that active women from all over the world pick Tampax tampons as their go-to from the start to the finish of their periods.

<h2 id="female-footballers-about-their-experience-with-tampons">Female footballers about their experience with tampons</h2>

Female footballers - Jill Scott and Demi Stokes recently starred in Tampax campaign, *Changing Room Confessions*. As members of the Lioness Team that won the European championship in 2022  , they are needed to stay active while on their periods. Jill recently shared on her [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/reel/Ct68OpvLj8p/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&&igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==) that she and Demi “have used Tampax throughout their careers” and “are proud to be normalising chats about periods in sports.” Demi [agreed](https://www.instagram.com/reel/Ct67A-Tt1mO/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&&igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==), writing that “the more you talk about periods in sports, the more normal it is, so we are glad we could share some experiences and have a few laughs to help challenge the stigma.”
If you're new to the Tampax tampon game during your period, you might want to [check out how to use a tampon](/en-gb/tampon-truths/how-to-use-a-tampon/).

<h2 id="women-on-the-Go-Choose-Tampax">Women on the Go Choose Tampax</h2>

With Tampax, you get flexibility and adaptability, allowing you to live your rhythm every day of your period. An active lifestyle doesn't always mean intense workouts or athletic competitions. For many women, it's about tackling busy days at work, commuting, or multitasking. Tampax Pearl Compak Tampons ensure comfort and protection throughout the day. 

The non-slip grip applicator ensures optimal positioning, and the compact pack fits even in your wallet, keeping you ready for any scenario. Trust in Tampax Pearl Compak and conquer every day!

<h2 id="products-designed-with-active-lifestyle-in-mind">Products designed with an active lifestyle in mind</h2>

The needs of all athletes are as unique as they are. Each active person may prefer a different type of tampon and need period products with different levels of absorbency, adapted to the level of bleeding. With Tampax tampons, choosing the right product won’t be a challenge! Tampax Compak Pearl tampons are available in 3 absorbencies:
•	[Tampax Pearl Compak Super Plus](/en-gb/our-tampons/pearl-compak-with-applicator/super-plus/), which is the most absorbent, intended for the first, intense days of menstruation,
•	[Tampax Pearl Compak Super](/en-gb/our-tampons/pearl-compak-with-applicator/super/), which for most women will work well during the middle days of menstruation,
•	[Tampax Pearl Compak Regular](/en-gb/our-tampons/pearl-compak-with-applicator/regular/), ideal for the last days of the period, when bleeding is more minimal.
Varying absorbency gives you maximum flexibility in choosing the best period protection products for each day of your period – after all, it’s the tampons that are supposed to fit you, not you to the tampons.

<h3 id="tampax-Pearl-Compak-Tampons-–-unlock-the-advantages-of-MotionFit">Tampax Pearl Compak Tampons - unlock the advantages of MotionFit</h3>

Tampax Compak Pearl Tampons are designed to give you solid protection and top-notch comfort. They've got revolutionary MotionFit technology that helps the tampon adapt to your body’s movement, giving you no-see, no-feel protection! Once inserted, the Tampax tampon expands gently to fit your body's unique shape, giving you complete freedom. From warming up to the final cooldown, during a bike ride, or nailing a yoga pose, Tampax tampons stick with you, offering unrivalled comfort and freedom to move, even during the most challenging exercises.

<h2 id="stay-active-during-your-period-with-tampax">Stay active during your period with Tampax</h2>

We at Tampax appreciate the challenges of working out during your period, and we think you should always listen to your body and never feel guilty about taking extra days to rest, especially when you are on your period. But if you want to keep the workouts going, Tampax Pearl Compak is there for you. From professional athletes to amateur fitness enthusiasts, we've tailored our tampons to offer the best protection. Our practical applicator ensures a quick and easy insertion, while the smooth exterior guarantees an effortless removal. The extra leak protection brings you peace of mind even on heavy flow days, so you can focus on your goals without any distractions. Now you can do whatever you are in the mood for, move as much, or as little as you like.

From football pitches to office desks, Tampax offers a wide range of tampons suitable for all types of active lifestyles. Embrace the benefits of Tampax Pearl tampons and see why so many active people around the world trust us. Learn about [Tampax Pearl Compak tampons with applicator](/en-gb/our-tampons/pearl-compak-with-applicator/).


## Tampax tampons: the best solution for active people exercising on their periods 

UK- ADP - How to Wear a Tampon

How to Wear a Tampon

About Us

About

UK- ADP - Tampax tampons: the best solution for active people exercising on their period

Tampax tampons: the best solution for active people exercising on their periods 

# Tampax tampons: the best solution for active people exercising on their periods

Regular 16 pack

A lot of people say you can flush tampons, and a lot of people say you can’t. We’re here to weigh in with the verdict. Find out here.

Can You Flush Tampons?

[A pad](https://www.always.co.uk/en-gb/period-hub/menstrual-cycle/what-is-a-sanitary-pad/) is made of absorbent material that sticks to your underwear and can be worn day or night. Like tampons, pads come in a variety of sizes dependent on your flow. Using pads is really easy, but they aren’t for everybody. Since they are worn outside your body, people often complain about feeling wet, being self-conscious that it looks like they’re wearing a nappy, and the stress of constantly checking for leaks. [Some pads are thinner and shorter](https://www.always.co.uk/en-gb/feminine-products/period-pads/always-infinity-flexprotect/always-infinity-flexprotect-normal-period-pads-with-wings/), whereas others are thicker and longer; it all depends on your individual preference and protection needs. Not sure what size pad you need? [Take our online quiz](https://www.always.co.uk/en-gb/product-recommender/) to find your fit. 

## What are the safety risks?

There aren’t many safety risks that come with the use of pads or tampons. Tampons are associated with an increased risk of menstrual toxic shock syndrome ([TSS](/en-gb/period-health/toxic-shock-syndrome-causes-treatment/)), a rare life-threatening medical condition that occurs when normal bacteria in your system release toxins. Anyone can get TSS, but half the reported cases of TSS are associated with women using tampons. It’s not to be taken lightly – possible symptoms include a high fever that comes on suddenly, low blood pressure, a sunburn-like rash, vomiting or diarrhoea, confusion, muscle aches, headaches and seizures. So, if you’ve been wearing a tampon and experience any of these symptoms, get to the hospital ASAP and make sure you tell the doctor you were wearing a tampon. Always wear the lowest absorbency for your flow and never keep your tampon in for longer than six hours. 

## What’s best for your flow? 

This really depends on a few factors, as well as your personal preference. If you’re torn, check this chart to compare the different benefits. Don’t forget that you can even wear a pad and tampon at the same time – it all comes down to personal preference. 

## How to use

### Pads

Pads are external, so all you have to do is stick it onto your underwear. Done! 

### Tampons

Tampons need to be inserted inside the body. (Here’s a handy [how-to](/en-gb/tampon-truths/how-to-insert-a-tampon/).) Once you’ve inserted your tampon, it’s undetectable. 

## Usage and comfort

### Pads

Pads are worn externally – just put them in your underwear. Some women prefer pads because they can feel them, which reassures them that they’re protected. Other women don’t like that feeling and compare it to wearing a nappy. 

### Tampons

Tampons are worn internally, which means you need to be comfortable inserting, wearing and removing a tampon from your vagina. Many women say this gives them an invisible experience since they don’t feel anything, but other women just aren’t comfortable using tampons. 

## Active lifestyle 

### Pads

Pads can be worn for almost any activity. It all comes down to what’s most comfortable for you. If you’re going swimming or feel self-conscious about a pad being visible when you’re in activewear, consider using a tampon instead. 

### Tampons 

Tampons can be worn for almost any activity or with any outfit since they’re worn internally. It’s all about what’s most comfortable for you. They’re a great option to use when you want to go swimming on your period. 

## Light flow to heavy flow

### Pads

Pads come in a range of sizes for your unique shape and flow. Pick the size you need based on the type of underwear you’re wearing and when you’re wearing it – day or night. If you don’t know your size, [use the Always Leak Eliminator to find out.](https://www.always.co.uk/en-gb/product-recommender/)

### Tampons

Tampons come in five sizes to help give you protection on your heaviest days and comfort on your lightest. Your flow changes every day, so your tampon can too. Pick the lowest absorbency that matches your flow each day. 

## Knowing when to change

### Pads

Simply check your pad to see if it is full or not. Did you know that 60% of women wear the wrong size pad and can experience leaks? If that’s happened to you, try the next size up to get up to 20% better coverage day or night. 

### Tampons

This can be a bit tricky since they’re worn internally. It takes practice to get a good feel for your flow. If your tampon leaks after just a few hours, go up a size. If your tampon is uncomfortable to change, go down a size. We recommend changing your tampon every 4-6 hours; use for up to six hours maximum. 

## Overnight use

### Pads

[There are pads designed for overnight use](https://www.always.co.uk/en-gb/feminine-products/period-pads/always-platinum/always-platinum-secure-night-sanitary-pads-with-wings/), so if you want to sleep in, turn off your alarm and do your thing. 

## Safety

### Pads

There are no known health risks associated with using pads. Just make sure you change them regularly, as wearing a wet pad for long periods of time can cause mild skin irritation. You can still get TSS when you’re using a pad, but the risk is the same as not using any feminine hygiene protection at all. 

### Tampons

Tampons can absolutely be used safely – just remember that they can increase your risk of TSS, so know the symptoms and what to do if you think you may be experiencing any.

Freedom of doing what you want during your period, especially when it comes to the physical activities, may seem difficult to achieve, but worry not: with [Tampax Pearl Compak Regular](/en-gb/our-tampons/pearl-compak-with-applicator/regular/) tampons you can be as active as you want without any risk of leakage. That's how effective MotionFit technology and the LeakGuard braid are, making Tampax Pearl tampons the best choice for every active woman.

UK- ADP - How to use tampons for the first time

How to use tampons for the first time?

If you’ve never used one before, using a tampon for the first time can seem a bit daunting at first.

How to use tampons for the first time?

How to put a tampon in for the first time

Related articles:

How to insert a tampon?

How to use a tampon?

How to remove a tampon?