You should only flush the three P’s: pee, poop, and toilet paper. Everything else should go in the trash,” said Cynthia Finley, Director of Regulatory Affairs at the National Association of Clean Water Agencies, which represents public wastewater utilities across the United States.

Which tampon you should use depends on the factors named above. There are five major types of tampons across the industry: light, regular, super tampons, super plus, and super extra or ultra. If you’ve never used tampons before, it’s a good idea to start with the lightest possible absorbency. Light tampons may be more comfortable to insert, and they allow you to gauge your flow and protection needs. Do: Use Different Size Tampons for Different Levels of Flow Throughout Your Period Light” describes the tampon absorbency rather than the width. Light tampons are low absorbency, holding up to 6 grams of fluid. “Slender fit” isn’t a medical description, but a manufacturer designation. It usually describes the width of the tampon, rather than its absorbency. Slender fit tampons are typically narrower than standard tampons but may have a “regular” absorbency of 6 to 9 grams. What’s the difference between sport tampons and typical tampons? Dr. Montes suggests changing your tampon every four hours at the most, and only using tampons when you are on your period. She also recommends choosing the lowest absorbency level and avoiding scented tampons. If you have problems with insertion, be sure to consult your health provider to rule out other conditions that can make insertion difficult, such as vaginismus or pelvic floor dysfunction.

Tampons should be chosen based on how much menstrual fluid is passed during a short time, rather than choosing larger capacity tampons and leaving them in longer. Tampons need to be changed regularly to avoid infection. Benefits of using tampons What seems to be true is that organic tampons are a more sustainable option than non-organic products.

Anate Brauer, MD, FACOG, reproductive endocrinologist and IVF director in Manhattan, New York at Shady Grove Fertility

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The line from Mean Girls was accurate: Just like each of us has a different and unique vulva, each of us has a different vagina, too. Variations in vagina size and shape are natural, but our vaginas can also become larger after childbirth. The particular size and shape of your vagina will impact the best tampon size for you. Flow Volume Once you’ve sorted out which level of absorbency is right for you, it’s time to think about your personal preferences. Is cost your number one concern? Or are you happy to spend a little more to ensure your tampons are made with 100 percent organic cotton? Do you prefer tampons without applicators, or ones without fragrances? Are you looking for the best tampon for swimming or working out? No matter what, there's an uber absorbent tampon out there for you.

Some breakthrough leakage is possible if tampons are left in too long. However, if the largest tampon is unable to contain menstrual flow for more than a few hours, consult a trusted health care provider to ensure a medical issue isn’t causing an extremely heavy flow of blood. Organic tampons aren't just easier on the environment, however, they also provide some additional health benefits for your body. Organic tampons are made with 100% organic cotton and are free of rayon, chlorine bleaching, or pesticides, says Erica Montes, MD, board-certified OB-GYN and feminine health advisor. Although regular tampons are safe and usually free of harmful chemicals, organic period products are a great choice if you’re sensitive to non-organic tampons or prefer using hypoallergenic, sustainable products, says Sherry A. Ross, MD, OB-GYN.What’s more, these non-applicator tampons are a great way to reduce your plastic usage as they contain up to 96% less plastic than the leading brand’s compact applicator ranges*. What fans say: “As someone who suffers with endometriosis and PCOS, my periods are HORRIBLE … I usually bleed heavily and I've tried I don’t know how many organic brands and all they do is fall apart within 30 minutes, or don't feel well. I bought L. tampons hoping it would be my new brand and it went beyond my expectations! They hold up well with heavy bleeding and are easy to use. I also like that it gives to those in need … L. you have a customer til I no longer have a period.”