If you’re struggling to insert a tampon, ask someone you trust, like your mom or sister, who has used tampons to help you. If used properly, you can't feel them,” says women’s health expert Jennifer Wider, MD. They also tend to be less messy than pads or menstrual cups, says Jessica Shepherd, MD, an ob-gyn in Texas. "Tampons can help decrease heavy bleeding accidents,” she says—especially if you pair them with a pantyliner. 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: Similar to a tampon, a menstrual disc is inserted into the vagina and sits below the cervix in the vaginal fornix. You can wear it for up to 12 hours, and dispose of it once you’re done. The type of applicator matters, too. While Dr. Shepherd says you can try out different kinds of applicators to see what feels the most comfortable for you, plastic applicators are known for being a little easier to use.

Playtex Sport Tampons are known for their Flex-Fit design, which allows them to move with your body during physical activities, providing a comfortable and secure fit. Whether I'm working out, running errands, or simply going about my daily routine, I can trust these tampons to stay in place without any discomfort. But there’s a reason why you’re thinking about joining Squad Tampon in the first place, and it probably has a lot to do with convenience. “Tampons are a great option because they don't interfere with your outfits and they makes it easy to go swimming on your period,” says Christine Greves, MD, a board-certified ob-gyn at the Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies in Orlando, Florida. They’re also compact enough to slip into your purse and carry around all day. Hold the applicator at the finger grip (in the middle of the applicator) using your thumb and middle finger. Spotting essentially means that you’re bleeding outside of your regular period. This can happen for a number of reasons, such as stress, medication, and certain infections.

What Are Tampons?

Tampons are available in so many different varieties, from applicator to size. Whether you've had a heavy flow for years or are totally new to periods, we broke down all your tampon options and important considerations: Applicator: There are three main styles of applicators: plastic, cardboard or no applicator. Generally, our tester panel preferred tampons with plastic applicators than cardboard or no applicator styles. Although, people who use no-applicator tampons highly recommended them; they found them easier to use while leaving less waste. If you tend to have more sensitivity and cramping, try the Saalt Soft Cup, which is also available online. The soft silicone formula sits gently inside the vaginal canal without causing cramping or discomfort. Plus, it’s super flexible for easy insertion. Period-friendly swimwear Despite its slender applicator and purified fibers, the tampon still gives maximum control for heavy days.

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. What we like: These U by Kotex unscented tampons are significantly smaller in size than regular tampons while offering super absorbency. They come with a plastic carrying case that can fit three tampons, which is perfect for on the go. The grooved design absorbs your flow as you move.These organic tampons have reliable protection, plus they’re entirely plant-based and free from pesticides, chemicals, chlorine, dyes, dioxins, and synthetic materials. There’s also this to consider, per Dr. Wider: “Some people who use tampons without applicators complain that they can feel the tampon, or it won't go in all the way.” The flex menstrual disc, which you can buy online, is known for its ease of insertion and comfort. They’re perfect for sports and swimming because of their low profile, plus there’s less risk for leakage than with tampons. Since plastic applicators can be quite slippery, look for one with a no-slip or anti-slip grip. This textured grip is located on the base of the top tube so that you can position the tampon during insertion. No-slip grip also makes it easier with compact styles to extend the bottom tube. Sport tampon cost

Your tampon should come out easily if it’s full. All you need to do is gently tug on the tampon’s string. If you’re looking for a tampon with conscious ingredients, Veeda’s tampons are made without synthetics, dyes, or chemicals.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. Because of the position they’re placed in, some claim that discs reduce period-associated pain, which can make your swimming more enjoyable.

If you’re worried about the waste associated with disposable tampons and discs, try the Intimina Ziggy Cup, which is also available online. Built with the same materials as a menstrual cup, this reusable disc has a shallow profile, making it ideal for everything from period sex to swimming. Plus, it covers light to heavier flows. Menstrual cups Believe it or not, you can buy swimwear with built-in leak-proof protection. The swimwear comes in one-piece and two-piece options for all genders, with hidden layers of fabric that absorb menstrual blood without staining. However, if you have a lighter flow, go for a lower absorbency tampon (aka light or lite). If your tampon is high absorbency and you have a lighter flow, you may experience discomfort during removal. Is it going to soak up water?Tampons are one of those things that seem like NBD until you’re actually ready to use them for the first time. Then, you have so many questions like how, exactly, this whole thing is supposed to work and what tampons are best for beginners. You probably don't give a second thought to what tampons you're buying if you've been using the same brand since forever. While your preferences may not have changed throughout the years, the tampon selection out there certainly has. And you don't have to just settle for what your mom handed you the first time you saw a red spot on your underwear. 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. Plastic applicators are usually more soft and allow you to have slightly more control over where the tampon goes,” Dr. Greves says. Cardboard applicators and no-applicator tampons are better for the environment, but Dr. Greves says they’re "usually a little more difficult to use," especially for beginners. “A slim, small plastic applicator is usually what I recommend for a beginner,” she says. The Best Tampon Brands For Beginners Our take: These compact tampons are tiny but mighty and offer worry-free protection as you meet your fitness goals.