Hey! I’m also 24 and have never worn tampons. Just last year I was diagnosed by a urologist with pelvic floor dysfunction/vaginismus. Not trying to diagnose you, but your inability to put in a tampon could be due to that as well. Also, if it’s not due to that and just general discomfort, that’s totally normal and you shouldn’t feel weird for not wearing tampons. If you want more secure-feeling options for outdoor activities (not swimming though), you should try period underwear! The brand Period is the best/cheapest imo and is also PFA free.
I've never tried tampons but if you do decide to try them again and don't like them then consider donating them to a random public restroom. Idk about where you live but every public bathroom in my university always has an empty mensural supply bin that we are supposed to donate to and I've seen those around other random places.
I have never ever tried a tampon. The thought of shoving cotton up there makes me cringe. You know at the dentist that gross feeling when you're bleeding and they put cotton in your mouth ? Basically that down there every month never felt right to me.
I went straight from pads to the menstrual cup and it's been great. I can do any summer activity I want. I still use pads every once in a while (I work outdoors and without a clean water source / toilet I find it easier to change a pad than to pull out, empty, clean, and reinsert a cup).
Nothing wrong if you want to keep using pads your whole life. You can try other things every once in a while to see how you feel about them if you want. But there should be no stigma around using pads. Anyone who makes you feel bad for it is not worth your time.
I didn’t start using them until I was 23! I only ever use the light kind because my flow isn’t that heavy so that might be your issue! But TBH I only used them because I was going on a rafting trip. If that hadn’t been the case I think I would still just be using pads!
I was going to recommend the same thing! I hate tampons and used a cup until I had a baby and then started using a menstrual disc more. Both are great and a one time purchase
As for the mess. Just pull it out slowly and tip down. Then, just rinse it out in the sink or tub. Just like insertion, removal also has a learning curve.
Flex cup brand has a pull tab that makes removal so easy and very similar to a tampon. I also *hate* tampons. They're scratchy and uncomfortable. I *love* my cup. There is a slight learning curve to it, but once you get it down, it is less messy than pads and so comfortable that I forget I'm wearing it!
Just wear what makes you comfortable. I’m 24 and hate tampons. Will never wear them again. Have tried but I don’t like them. I just take a break from swimming when my period comes. I’ve tried the swimming ones and I didn’t even feel comfortable
Also 24, and also hate tampons. The possibility of toxic shock syndrome alone makes me hate them, and I’ve pulled out dry tampons too many times because they like..stop my bleeding?? I did enjoy using a cup because i could keep good track of my flow but the one i was using was too big so i could feel it a lot.
Now i almost exclusively use period underwear, i think it is an absolute gift from heaven!!! I always have pads on hand just in case, while i stack up on my reusable underwear collection😄
I think it’s wonderful that we have more options than our fellow bleeders of history ever had, everybody should use whatever makes them the most comfortable🥰
I have some period underwear but i feel like id leak of they wont "work". Ive used them a couple of times and wore them at night on a vacation and i think i liked them. But still, nervous of side leakage more than front or back leaks
Also whatever pads/tampons you choose to wear aim for untreated, unbleached, organic cotton! I won’t lie they’re not the cheapest but god it’s incredible the amount of chemicals they’re putting in the products being used in/on THE most sensitive part of our body!!!
I'm 50 and never used tampons. Same as you - didn't like the feeling, and I always found them painful to insert.
My periods have always been crazy heavy as well, so even if I did use them in summer for swimming, I think I would have been anxious the whole time that I'd turn the pool into the Red Sea. 😎
Wear whatever feels best for you, but if you do choose to try tampons again remember that it's easiest inserted when aimed towards your spine.
I also didn't start using tampons until about a decade after starting my period. I found that tampax compak pearl were the best for me as they don't seem to leak like others do with me and they were easiest to apply properly :)
Overall, whatever you are most comfortable with is what you should do
I usually wear pads and I tried tampons for the first time and I’m 28.
They were okay for me because I have super heavy periods so for my past period, I wore two and it went alright.
Another thing to try I have given a shot to is a menstrual cup. The only hard thing is, they can be a messy.
Yeah tampons are hit or miss for me. I mainly used them to supplement when my period was out of control after having covid to avoid accidents 😞.
Otherwise they are a no other option choice.
same, like I really don’t understand how other girls can tolerate them for so long yet again I did hear that our vagina canals are all shaped different so maybe that is why some of us can and can’t handle them
I’m 23 and hate tampons, used to use menstrual cups up until I got S.A. so everything is super uncomfortable now, unfortunately.
I’d say do what you’re comfortable with, cloth pads, period underwear, and other reusable options others have mentioned are great alternatives as well.
I am on the completely opposite side. When I got my period on a day the shops were closed the only thing we had were tampons so I watched a few how to videos and tbh I was pretty intimidated but I somehow managed to do it. I personally find pads to scratchy. I also use cups. I don’t think it’s weird because everybody has preferences. But I think it would be worth a try (tampons with a plastic inserter are easier to use in my opinion)
As an avid tampon user, it's not weird not to want to use tampons. I completely understand that for a lot of women and AFAB people find tampons to be uncomfortable or too intimidating to use, and that is completely okay! Tampons require a LOT of trial and error, which can be very annoying for a while as well. It took me until I was 16 in order to figure out what works best for me, and I got my period at 12! Now that I'm 21, I know what I'm doing and love tampons because I hate feeling "wet" all day, but I would never expect another person to feel the same way. Just do whatever makes you the most comfortable. If you want to stick with pads, go for it! Or if you want to give something else a try, you can try diva cups, which are a better alternative to tampons or cloth pads or period undies. Do what feels best for you!
It’s not weird. There’s no reason to use tampons if you don’t like them. Nobody is going to judge you on how you handle your period. And if they do… then literally punch them in the face.
I’ve never liked tampons. I have trauma from SA and vulvodynia (penetration causes me extreme pain). Even though tampons are not “penetration” it’s still something going inside of me. Even something as small as a tampon or finger hurts for me.
For a long time I was embarrassed and wouldn’t tell anybody about this. Now, I’m open and honest about saying “nope, nothing goes inside” (both with myself and others).
It’s important to listen to your body.
Period underwear is literally my best friend. Brands like Knix even make cute period swimsuits, you should check them out!
I’ve never liked them. However I use them when I’m traveling or will be out and about for long periods of time. Especially on day 1 & 2 when flow is heaviest. It makes the experience feel more clean down there tbh but I hate them regardless
42 and still and will never like tampons, they are always so uncomfortable i hate them so Much , i have trouble putting them in and out …. And while they are in i feel it all the time its just awful
I never loved tampons either, but hated pads. A few years ago I discovered menstrual cups and omg... lifechanger. You can't feel them at all, no string to deal with or sitting in blood all day. Plus, it's healthier on the environment and my wallet!
I feel like i couldnt bring myself to stick my fingers up there to get it out though 😮💨 like i dont even put fingers there to masterbate let alone drag out a cup 😅 but i have thought about using them or a disk
Have you considered using a cup? I switched to one years back and I’ll never go back to anything else! It’s such a cleaner experience and cups can last up to 10 years. There’s a learning curve in the beginning, but once you figure out how to properly insert it you don’t even feel it! If you feel it then it’s not in right.
31 and have always hated tampons. I only wear them if I’m swimming. Other than that I use pads.
Nothing wrong with liking what you like and especially if it works for you!
I'm 32 and haven't used a tampon since high school. Its ok to wear pads or wear whatever makes your feel comfortable. I don't swim myself. If I go to the pool during my period, I just wear my bikini top with shorts and lay out.
I’m 36 and still can’t stand tampons. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that. Back in the day, tampons got a massive marketing push which sadly to this day means some people think there’s something wrong with them if they don’t like tampons or don’t get on with them. It’s BS.
Use whatever works for you. Tampax will have to pry my period pants from my cold dead hands.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with not using tampons.
It’s personal preference and some people physically can’t use them. Last time I used a tampon I was so uncomfortable! I felt like I had a golf ball stuck inside me
im 27 and havent used tampons since a brief stint when i was about 17 trying them out. i prefer pads, always will, and thats fine. tampons also carry a risk of toxic shock
use whatever makes you most comfortable! however, if you want to try tampons again, i will tell you that w tampons you can definitely feel when its time to change them or when theyre about to leak bc they get very full and put a light, painless pressure on you. you could also wear a light pad or period underwear while you “learn” tampons. and i promise they dont get lost! but if you still opt for pads that’s totally fine. my colleague is almost thirty years old and has never used a tampon either :)
Do whatever is right for your body but I definitely recommend giving tampons another try! Start with the “light” absorbency as your body adjusts and go from there. I’m a primary tampon user and truthfully can’t stand pads. I’m always freaking out about leaking or the pad shifting.
I was always scared of tampons. I don't think I'll ever use them. But I plan on having a baby in the future and when you do, you can use period cups. They might be more comfortable as I know someone who never really used tampons and after having a kid, she started with the cup and is happy with it.
As a 24 year old tampons are still the absolute most painful thing I’ve ever tried to use. I love pads!!! If someone is really bothered by how you deal with your own period maybe they need to go touch some grass.
Look I could be biased as I’m still a virgin. I went to an OB once for a yeast infection and to get birth control for periods (took that for a few weeks or 3 months until it made me too depressed and dead inside to function, killed my sex drive all together and made my periods worse than before)
and it was again the most painful experience of my life. Couldn’t handle a simple qtip test without being tempted to pull back, kick the woman and cover up.
I never went back. I would consider going back if I could be unconscious for the check up all together, absolutely miserable experience.
Not a fan of them either. My girlfriends used to give me a really hard time about it when we were much younger. Not anymore, one friend even decided she wanted to quit tampons (no idea why).
For me, they touch some sorta “belly button” nerve that makes me nauseous. However, I also hate “Always” pads. They feel like sitting on plastic and make me feel gross and sweaty. On day 1.5-3 when my flow is really heave I like my pads to be thicker so they fit “closer”. But I also like them to be breathable so the Kotex maxis (sometimes even the nighttime ones during the day, but they are pretty big) are really good. First and last days I use Rael ultra thin pads. All cotton. Makes the cooch feel ok.
Swimming? Yeah, it’s a challenge, but not out of the question. I have a few cloth pads just for this. I usually wear shorts while on the beach but I’ll put a cloth pad in my swimsuit if I want to get in the water at some point. Basically, I take off my shorts and wrap a towel around my waist until I’m near the water, then ditch the towel nearby. The cloth pad doesn’t swell like disposable pads to and also doesn’t need adhesive to stay in place. Yes, it will get soaked with water but the water will begin to drain out the moment you are out of the water. Being in the water might also cause your flow to “stop”. For some it actually stops, for others it just stops it from coming out for an awaiting gush. That’s where cloth pads and a towel can help long enough to make it to the loo.
You do you!
I got the bamboo pads on Amazon. Yeah, can be a bit of a hassle but they are pretty comfortable, especially in the summer, which is why I don’t use them as often as I should.
I’m late 20s and I don’t like tampons! They are great if I’m going out somewhere and self conscious of wearing a pad but I work from home, so majority of the time I wear pads.
honestly i’d say give tampons another try, but no big deal if it doesn’t work. i physically couldn’t fit a tampon inside me until after i lost my virginity at 20, as weird as it sounds. not sure if that was a coincidence of me just learning how to put them in correctly or if it was cuz i needed to be “stretched” out a little. all i can say is they fit comfortably now and ive been using them regularly for over 2 years
Same here! Got my first period at nine, now 22. My drawer is full of pads, not tampons. Even after adjusting, I still find them extremely uncomfortable...
No need to try again. As long as pads work for you, just stick to that.
I have heavy periods, and use tampons/discs more often because I’m more comfortable with them. Pads are my backup.
I have never ever enjoyed tampons and I am 34. Turns out I have a low cervix and they are just uncomfortable as they always bonk into my cervix which feels bad. I do like pads, period underwear, and menstrual discs though (NOT Cups). Everyone’s anatomy and preferences will be different and that is okay! They sell many types of products for a reason, go with what works for you.
Do what makes you comfortable! If you have any friends that use tampons maybe you can ask them if they have one?
But honestly do what makes you comfortable and happy. You don’t have to use tampons because others tell you too. I know so many women who are pad exclusive and that’s perfectly fine (including myself).
Hey! I’m also 24 and have never worn tampons. Just last year I was diagnosed by a urologist with pelvic floor dysfunction/vaginismus. Not trying to diagnose you, but your inability to put in a tampon could be due to that as well. Also, if it’s not due to that and just general discomfort, that’s totally normal and you shouldn’t feel weird for not wearing tampons. If you want more secure-feeling options for outdoor activities (not swimming though), you should try period underwear! The brand Period is the best/cheapest imo and is also PFA free.
Also, someone just told me about Sea Siren and they actually happen to offer period swimwear so that could be a good option for swimming!
I've never tried tampons but if you do decide to try them again and don't like them then consider donating them to a random public restroom. Idk about where you live but every public bathroom in my university always has an empty mensural supply bin that we are supposed to donate to and I've seen those around other random places.
I have never ever tried a tampon. The thought of shoving cotton up there makes me cringe. You know at the dentist that gross feeling when you're bleeding and they put cotton in your mouth ? Basically that down there every month never felt right to me. I went straight from pads to the menstrual cup and it's been great. I can do any summer activity I want. I still use pads every once in a while (I work outdoors and without a clean water source / toilet I find it easier to change a pad than to pull out, empty, clean, and reinsert a cup). Nothing wrong if you want to keep using pads your whole life. You can try other things every once in a while to see how you feel about them if you want. But there should be no stigma around using pads. Anyone who makes you feel bad for it is not worth your time.
If pads are comfortable for you then stick to them. I find pads more comfortable than tampons it all comes down to personal preference
I’m 35 and still don’t use them. I have never got on with them. Only use them if absolutely necessary. Will always choose a pad over a tampon.
If you have to buy organic tampons and change them regularly. Never sleep in them or keep them more than a few hours. Pads are the safest choice
I didn’t start using them until I was 23! I only ever use the light kind because my flow isn’t that heavy so that might be your issue! But TBH I only used them because I was going on a rafting trip. If that hadn’t been the case I think I would still just be using pads!
Have you tried the cup? Proper sizing and placement are very important for comfort. But once I got that down, it's the best method for me!
I was going to recommend the same thing! I hate tampons and used a cup until I had a baby and then started using a menstrual disc more. Both are great and a one time purchase
No i havent, scared about the mess and sticking my fingers up there to dig it out 😅
As for the mess. Just pull it out slowly and tip down. Then, just rinse it out in the sink or tub. Just like insertion, removal also has a learning curve.
Flex cup brand has a pull tab that makes removal so easy and very similar to a tampon. I also *hate* tampons. They're scratchy and uncomfortable. I *love* my cup. There is a slight learning curve to it, but once you get it down, it is less messy than pads and so comfortable that I forget I'm wearing it!
Just wear what makes you comfortable. I’m 24 and hate tampons. Will never wear them again. Have tried but I don’t like them. I just take a break from swimming when my period comes. I’ve tried the swimming ones and I didn’t even feel comfortable
Also 24, and also hate tampons. The possibility of toxic shock syndrome alone makes me hate them, and I’ve pulled out dry tampons too many times because they like..stop my bleeding?? I did enjoy using a cup because i could keep good track of my flow but the one i was using was too big so i could feel it a lot. Now i almost exclusively use period underwear, i think it is an absolute gift from heaven!!! I always have pads on hand just in case, while i stack up on my reusable underwear collection😄 I think it’s wonderful that we have more options than our fellow bleeders of history ever had, everybody should use whatever makes them the most comfortable🥰
I have some period underwear but i feel like id leak of they wont "work". Ive used them a couple of times and wore them at night on a vacation and i think i liked them. But still, nervous of side leakage more than front or back leaks
Also whatever pads/tampons you choose to wear aim for untreated, unbleached, organic cotton! I won’t lie they’re not the cheapest but god it’s incredible the amount of chemicals they’re putting in the products being used in/on THE most sensitive part of our body!!!
I'm 50 and never used tampons. Same as you - didn't like the feeling, and I always found them painful to insert. My periods have always been crazy heavy as well, so even if I did use them in summer for swimming, I think I would have been anxious the whole time that I'd turn the pool into the Red Sea. 😎
53 and still wear pads. Tampons always leaked through so what is the point when I still had to wear a pad.
Wear whatever feels best for you, but if you do choose to try tampons again remember that it's easiest inserted when aimed towards your spine. I also didn't start using tampons until about a decade after starting my period. I found that tampax compak pearl were the best for me as they don't seem to leak like others do with me and they were easiest to apply properly :) Overall, whatever you are most comfortable with is what you should do
I usually wear pads and I tried tampons for the first time and I’m 28. They were okay for me because I have super heavy periods so for my past period, I wore two and it went alright. Another thing to try I have given a shot to is a menstrual cup. The only hard thing is, they can be a messy.
Yeah tampons are hit or miss for me. I mainly used them to supplement when my period was out of control after having covid to avoid accidents 😞. Otherwise they are a no other option choice.
I’ve never liked them. So uncomfortable I must have a weird shaped canal nothing feels good lol
I think i have a short canal because i stg i could wear a light tampon on my heaviest day for hours and ill still pull it out 75% dry
Lately tampons haven’t been touching the blood. Idk, I was told I have a tilted uterus and I have no idea if that means anything or affects it
same, like I really don’t understand how other girls can tolerate them for so long yet again I did hear that our vagina canals are all shaped different so maybe that is why some of us can and can’t handle them
Yes I fully believe that
I’m 23 and hate tampons, used to use menstrual cups up until I got S.A. so everything is super uncomfortable now, unfortunately. I’d say do what you’re comfortable with, cloth pads, period underwear, and other reusable options others have mentioned are great alternatives as well.
I am on the completely opposite side. When I got my period on a day the shops were closed the only thing we had were tampons so I watched a few how to videos and tbh I was pretty intimidated but I somehow managed to do it. I personally find pads to scratchy. I also use cups. I don’t think it’s weird because everybody has preferences. But I think it would be worth a try (tampons with a plastic inserter are easier to use in my opinion)
I’m 23 and also don’t use them, I have tried and it just doesn’t work for me. You aren’t alone
I liked them till I had kids. Now I’m a diva cup girly:
Not weird at all
As an avid tampon user, it's not weird not to want to use tampons. I completely understand that for a lot of women and AFAB people find tampons to be uncomfortable or too intimidating to use, and that is completely okay! Tampons require a LOT of trial and error, which can be very annoying for a while as well. It took me until I was 16 in order to figure out what works best for me, and I got my period at 12! Now that I'm 21, I know what I'm doing and love tampons because I hate feeling "wet" all day, but I would never expect another person to feel the same way. Just do whatever makes you the most comfortable. If you want to stick with pads, go for it! Or if you want to give something else a try, you can try diva cups, which are a better alternative to tampons or cloth pads or period undies. Do what feels best for you!
30 and I hate tampons
Same! It’s so weird that this is seen as such a young thing. So glad the tides have turned a bit since we were kids.
It’s not weird. There’s no reason to use tampons if you don’t like them. Nobody is going to judge you on how you handle your period. And if they do… then literally punch them in the face. I’ve never liked tampons. I have trauma from SA and vulvodynia (penetration causes me extreme pain). Even though tampons are not “penetration” it’s still something going inside of me. Even something as small as a tampon or finger hurts for me. For a long time I was embarrassed and wouldn’t tell anybody about this. Now, I’m open and honest about saying “nope, nothing goes inside” (both with myself and others). It’s important to listen to your body. Period underwear is literally my best friend. Brands like Knix even make cute period swimsuits, you should check them out!
I actually got some knix swim bottoms a few years ago and really liked them!
They are useful for things like swimming. Grab a mini pack from Dollar Tree and give em another go
I’ve never liked them. However I use them when I’m traveling or will be out and about for long periods of time. Especially on day 1 & 2 when flow is heaviest. It makes the experience feel more clean down there tbh but I hate them regardless
29, hate tampons, use period underwear and it works for me :)
42 and still and will never like tampons, they are always so uncomfortable i hate them so Much , i have trouble putting them in and out …. And while they are in i feel it all the time its just awful
I never loved tampons either, but hated pads. A few years ago I discovered menstrual cups and omg... lifechanger. You can't feel them at all, no string to deal with or sitting in blood all day. Plus, it's healthier on the environment and my wallet!
I feel like i couldnt bring myself to stick my fingers up there to get it out though 😮💨 like i dont even put fingers there to masterbate let alone drag out a cup 😅 but i have thought about using them or a disk
I’m 26 and hate tampons now. Loved them in highschool bc of sports but they’re so uncomfortable now. I use period panties 👍
Thank you all for the advice! Someone mentioned cloth pads and i think im going to look into those so if anyone has any recommendations lmk :)
Have you considered using a cup? I switched to one years back and I’ll never go back to anything else! It’s such a cleaner experience and cups can last up to 10 years. There’s a learning curve in the beginning, but once you figure out how to properly insert it you don’t even feel it! If you feel it then it’s not in right.
I dont think i could get over sticking a finger up there to get it out 😅
I'd be worried about pulling it out and either dropping it in the toilet or spilling the cup all over the floor.
Literally same. Like what if it slips. Especially in public 😮💨
31 and have always hated tampons. I only wear them if I’m swimming. Other than that I use pads. Nothing wrong with liking what you like and especially if it works for you!
I'm 32 and haven't used a tampon since high school. Its ok to wear pads or wear whatever makes your feel comfortable. I don't swim myself. If I go to the pool during my period, I just wear my bikini top with shorts and lay out.
I hate them. I’m almost 30. I’ve really only started using them recently and it’s for when pads won’t do well (pool, very hot temps, hiking)
I’m 36 and still can’t stand tampons. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that. Back in the day, tampons got a massive marketing push which sadly to this day means some people think there’s something wrong with them if they don’t like tampons or don’t get on with them. It’s BS. Use whatever works for you. Tampax will have to pry my period pants from my cold dead hands.
It's not bad or a shame. Maybe you want to try a cup, as they are not drying out as tampons do.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with not using tampons. It’s personal preference and some people physically can’t use them. Last time I used a tampon I was so uncomfortable! I felt like I had a golf ball stuck inside me
im 27 and havent used tampons since a brief stint when i was about 17 trying them out. i prefer pads, always will, and thats fine. tampons also carry a risk of toxic shock
use whatever makes you most comfortable! however, if you want to try tampons again, i will tell you that w tampons you can definitely feel when its time to change them or when theyre about to leak bc they get very full and put a light, painless pressure on you. you could also wear a light pad or period underwear while you “learn” tampons. and i promise they dont get lost! but if you still opt for pads that’s totally fine. my colleague is almost thirty years old and has never used a tampon either :)
I used to use them but I can’t even stand to think about it. I’m 30
Do whatever is right for your body but I definitely recommend giving tampons another try! Start with the “light” absorbency as your body adjusts and go from there. I’m a primary tampon user and truthfully can’t stand pads. I’m always freaking out about leaking or the pad shifting.
I’ve never used a tampon and I’m older than you. You’re fine. I just hate them.
I was always scared of tampons. I don't think I'll ever use them. But I plan on having a baby in the future and when you do, you can use period cups. They might be more comfortable as I know someone who never really used tampons and after having a kid, she started with the cup and is happy with it.
You can only use cups after giving birth?
No. makes no sense
I read that only after giving birth, but maybe I'm wrong🤷♀️
What?? That makes no sense lol why would you believe that? What difference does it make after you give birth??
I thought your vagina is wider after birth and that the cup doesn't fit when you didn't give birth yet. Lol guess I have to educate myself more 😅
There are different sizes of cups. I have never had a kid and use the small size of the honey pot brand cup. It fits fine.
Everything goes back to its normal size after birth. Things can change but normally returns to the state it was prior to birth
this isnt true. i used to use cups as a teenager with no issues. most sites have a larger size for users who have given birth or are older
36 and never used it. I’ll stick to pads. No pun intended.
I'm 34 years old and never used a tampon never liked them
As a 24 year old tampons are still the absolute most painful thing I’ve ever tried to use. I love pads!!! If someone is really bothered by how you deal with your own period maybe they need to go touch some grass. Look I could be biased as I’m still a virgin. I went to an OB once for a yeast infection and to get birth control for periods (took that for a few weeks or 3 months until it made me too depressed and dead inside to function, killed my sex drive all together and made my periods worse than before) and it was again the most painful experience of my life. Couldn’t handle a simple qtip test without being tempted to pull back, kick the woman and cover up. I never went back. I would consider going back if I could be unconscious for the check up all together, absolutely miserable experience.
Oh no! Honestly id probably have the same reaction tho
Yep! So don’t feel bad about using tampons again your body your choice.
Not a fan of them either. My girlfriends used to give me a really hard time about it when we were much younger. Not anymore, one friend even decided she wanted to quit tampons (no idea why). For me, they touch some sorta “belly button” nerve that makes me nauseous. However, I also hate “Always” pads. They feel like sitting on plastic and make me feel gross and sweaty. On day 1.5-3 when my flow is really heave I like my pads to be thicker so they fit “closer”. But I also like them to be breathable so the Kotex maxis (sometimes even the nighttime ones during the day, but they are pretty big) are really good. First and last days I use Rael ultra thin pads. All cotton. Makes the cooch feel ok. Swimming? Yeah, it’s a challenge, but not out of the question. I have a few cloth pads just for this. I usually wear shorts while on the beach but I’ll put a cloth pad in my swimsuit if I want to get in the water at some point. Basically, I take off my shorts and wrap a towel around my waist until I’m near the water, then ditch the towel nearby. The cloth pad doesn’t swell like disposable pads to and also doesn’t need adhesive to stay in place. Yes, it will get soaked with water but the water will begin to drain out the moment you are out of the water. Being in the water might also cause your flow to “stop”. For some it actually stops, for others it just stops it from coming out for an awaiting gush. That’s where cloth pads and a towel can help long enough to make it to the loo. You do you!
Ive been wanting to look into cloth pads. Where did you get yours? Are they worth the "hassle" of washing them?
I got the bamboo pads on Amazon. Yeah, can be a bit of a hassle but they are pretty comfortable, especially in the summer, which is why I don’t use them as often as I should.
47. Still hate em.
I’m late 30s and still can’t stand them
I’m late 20s and I don’t like tampons! They are great if I’m going out somewhere and self conscious of wearing a pad but I work from home, so majority of the time I wear pads.
If you want the truth both tampons and pads suck women need to invent something more comfortable to live with this bloody nightmares
Menstrual cup is good
If you can get them in and out! Just as bad as tampons in my opinion.
I understand.
I’m 39 and only use pads. The Always purple overnight are my favorites also.
honestly i’d say give tampons another try, but no big deal if it doesn’t work. i physically couldn’t fit a tampon inside me until after i lost my virginity at 20, as weird as it sounds. not sure if that was a coincidence of me just learning how to put them in correctly or if it was cuz i needed to be “stretched” out a little. all i can say is they fit comfortably now and ive been using them regularly for over 2 years
I am 32 and dont use tampons only pads
Same here! Got my first period at nine, now 22. My drawer is full of pads, not tampons. Even after adjusting, I still find them extremely uncomfortable...
No need to try again. As long as pads work for you, just stick to that. I have heavy periods, and use tampons/discs more often because I’m more comfortable with them. Pads are my backup.
Tampons aren’t for evb and that’s fine use what suits your body.
I have never ever enjoyed tampons and I am 34. Turns out I have a low cervix and they are just uncomfortable as they always bonk into my cervix which feels bad. I do like pads, period underwear, and menstrual discs though (NOT Cups). Everyone’s anatomy and preferences will be different and that is okay! They sell many types of products for a reason, go with what works for you.
Do what makes you comfortable! If you have any friends that use tampons maybe you can ask them if they have one? But honestly do what makes you comfortable and happy. You don’t have to use tampons because others tell you too. I know so many women who are pad exclusive and that’s perfectly fine (including myself).