Many women prefer tampons over pads since they are more comfortable and do not cause rashes as pads do. However, finding the best tampons for beginners for comfort level and period flow can be a difficult task. Even as a mature and experienced woman, you can have a difficult time finding the right tampon.
So, beginners often have to go through a long process of finding the tampon that fits them best. This is why we have formed a list of best tampons for beginners so that you can choose one of these.
Every brand has its pros and cons. Some of them meet the demands while others are more focused on the right color and scent. Just like that, every woman’s demands are also different so it is good that there are so many options to choose from.
- Quick Comparison of the Best Tampons for Beginners
- 1. Playtex Sport Flex-Fit – Best Tampons for Beginners
- 2. Cora Organic Tampons – 2nd best tampons for beginners
- 3. Tampax Pearl Lite for Light Flow – 3rd best tampons for beginner
- 4. Tampax Radiant Super Plus for Heavy Flow
- 5. U by Kotex Compact Tampons for Regular Flow
- 6. L Organic Tampons for Allergic Females
- 7. U By Kotex Fitness – Best tampons for swimming
- 8. Seventh Generation Leak Proof Tampons
- 9. NatraCare Cotton Tampons – Best Organic
- 10. Playtex Gentle Slide 360 degrees for Regular Flow
- Buyer’s Guide – Things you need to know about Tampons
- How to Use Tampons for Beginners?
- Important Things to Remember
- What is Toxic Shock Syndrome?
- What are the Benefits of Using Tampons?
- How to Pick Tampon Size?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict
Quick Comparison of the Best Tampons for Beginners
These are the top picks out of the total 10. These are the best tampons for beginners, with high absorbency and sleek designs.
Image | Name | Features | Type | Quantity | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Playtex Sport Flex-Fit | • Great for swimming • Are unscented • Come with an odor-neutralizing system • Have 360-degree protection • Flex Fit fibers keep you dry | Swimming/Underwater sports | 50 | Check Price | |
Cora Organic Tampons | • Made of organic cotton • Leakproof • Are great for sensitive skin • BPA-free applicator • Soft applicator tip makes insertion easier | Organic | 16 | Check Price | |
Tampax Pearl Lite for Light Flow | • Come with slip-free applicator • Easy to use • Leak Guard feature to prevent leaks • Last for 4 to 8 hours | Fragrance-free | 36 | Check Price |
1. Playtex Sport Flex-Fit – Best Tampons for Beginners
This is one of the best tampons for beginners who are involved in a lot of physical activity. As the name indicates, the tampons are made for women who are into sports and fitness activities.
A pack contains 36 tampons, and they will last you for a while. It is a combination of different kind of tampons. Eighteen of them are regular ones while the other 18 are super absorbent tampons for days of heavier flow.
Pros
- Are very cheap
- Prevent leakage
- Applicator has a non-slip handle
- Different kinds of tampons
- Super absorbent ones for heavy flow days
Cons
- Women with a heavier flow might have to buy two packs for more super-absorbent tampons
2. Cora Organic Tampons – 2nd best tampons for beginners
If you are looking for the best tampons for beginners, then this one must be one of your choices. These tampons are made out of organic material, so if you are someone who wants to go natural, this is the pick for you.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Made of certified and organic cotton
- Have not been processed with any chemicals or fragrances
- Applicator is BPA-free
- The sales go for a good cause
Cons
- Applicator design can be improved
3. Tampax Pearl Lite for Light Flow – 3rd best tampons for beginner
During the early years, most women have light flow so these are the tampons for such women. The company aims to combine comfort with protection. There is a LeakGuard system in all Tampax tampons which helps in preventing leaks.
Pros
- Is great for beginner
- Has a slim design
- Is comfortable once inside
- Has 8 hours of protection in a light and moderate flow
- Plastic applicator easily glides in
Cons
- Non-biodegradable plastic applicator
4. Tampax Radiant Super Plus for Heavy Flow
If as a beginner, you have a heavy flow, there is nothing to worry about since this Tampax tampon is great for heavy flow. It has been designed to provide comfort. The LeakGuard prevents blood from leaking on to your clothes.
Pros
- Has a sleek design of applicator for firm grip and easy insertion
- Leak Guard prevents any leaks
- Wrappers can be resealed for easy disposal
- Fun patterns for beginners
Cons
- The Re-sealable wrapper is not so functional since putting used tampon back in is a challenge
- Tampon might feel uncomfortable sometimes as it tends to expand too much
5. U by Kotex Compact Tampons for Regular Flow
Another company that has a huge name in making tampons is U by Kotex. Their tampons are undeniably some of the best tampons for beginners. If you are a sports enthusiast, this is the tampon for you.
You do not have to give up your sporty life just because you are a menstruating woman now and you are scared of getting stains everywhere. It does not have to be like that since these Kotex tween tampons provide ultimate protection from stains.
Pros
- Has a FITPAK in which you can keep three tampons
- Once inserted, the tampon stays in place
- Is comfortable to move
- Has a slim size
Cons
- Clicking can pinch the skin in the region and can be painful.
6. L Organic Tampons for Allergic Females
These organic tampons are one of the best tampons for beginners. Nowadays, there is a trend towards using organic products since they are less harmful for the user and the planet.
So, if you are a young girl looking for tampons made of organic cotton, you can use these. These tampons are hypoallergenic so you can use them without worrying about any problems. They are made with 100% cotton, which is super absorbent.
It will absorb the fluids, keeping you stain-free even on heavier days. Normally, tampons are made with rayon, and bleach is used.
Pros
- Is affordable
- Made of absorbent material
- Is not chemically bleached and does not have any rayon
Cons
- Plastic applicator
7. U By Kotex Fitness – Best tampons for swimming
This tampon offers extra absorbency since your body will come in contact with a lot of liquid during swimming. The same kind of tampon is also available in regular absorbency. Also, they are compact in size as compared to a typical tampon.
The tampon has grooves in them, which makes the design perfect for the flow to move around. The applicator makes insertion extremely easy and simple. There is a case with the tampon box in which you can keep three tampons.
Pros
- Good for swimmers
- Have high absorbency
- Design is suitable for flowy movement.
- Comes with a case to keep three tampons
Cons
- Applicator is hard for beginners to use initially
8. Seventh Generation Leak Proof Tampons
The most notable feature about these tampons is that they come with a BPA-free applicator. Since the applicator also goes inside your body, it is important that it should be free of any harmful chemicals. Most tampons do have BPA in the applicator and this can be harmful.
There are many people who are concerned about using any personal products that have harmful chemicals. If you are one of those people, you should try out these tampons.
Pros
- Is made of natural ingredients
- Does not cause rash or irritation
- Has been tested
- BPA free applicator
- Easy insertion and usage
Cons
- Absorbency is not sufficient for some users
9. NatraCare Cotton Tampons – Best Organic
Cotton tampons are very good for the skin since they are gentle. One of the best tampons for beginners that are made of cotton are these ones from Natracare.
These tampons are biodegradable, so they are great for people who are concerned about the environment. Also, they can be easily inserted by simply sliding them in. They are free of perfumes and fragrances, so there is no damage to your sensitive skin.
Pros
- Made from organic material
- Do not contain chlorine or fragrances
- 20 tampons in the back
- Totally perfume free
- Tampons are biodegradable
Cons
- Might be difficult to remove.
- Not ideal for women with a heavier flow.
10. Playtex Gentle Slide 360 degrees for Regular Flow
Playtex makes tampons for beginners and experienced women both. These tampons are quite good for beginners. As the name indicates, these are 360 degrees tampons which means they conform to your body shape.
Beginners who have light to moderate flow will find these tampons very useful. There are 20 plastic tampons in the box that will last you for your period. The applicator is smooth and rounded, so it will be easy to use.
Inserting this tampon is very easy due to the added comfort factor. Along with that, there is a super absorbent core which keeps you dry. However, you need to change the tampon every 3 to 4 hours since the size is smaller than normal tampons.
Tampons for beginners must be sleek, and these tampons are exactly that. But on the flip side, these tampons can’t hold a heavier flow and because of this very reason, it is last on the list.
Pros
- Very sleek
- Have the right design for beginners
- Affordable and comfortable
- Absorb well
Cons
- Can only take light to medium flow
- Need changing after every 3 to 4 hours.
Buyer’s Guide – Things you need to know about Tampons
As a newbie buying tampons, you must do your research properly. Either you can try out different ones and choose the best, or you can buy ones that have features you want. Some people like scented tampons as they keep the odor away.
On the other hand, some women like unscented ones since they do not cause rashes and irritation.
Skin Type: If you have sensitive skin, you must use unscented tampons. Perfumed tampons have fragrances in them that can cause a rash on the skin. There is no need to worry about the period odor since even the unscented ones have odor neutralizing technology.
Flow: Another important thing to look at is the flow. If you have a heavy flow, then tampons like Playtex Sport are good for you, but if you have a lighter flow then the last two on the list would do just fine for you.
Organic: Some women want to use organic tampons since they are good for the skin and the environment. Organic tampons are made of organic cotton, and they are good to your skin.
If you want an organic tampon, you can use Cora tampons or go for the Seventh Generation. They both are the best tampons for beginners that are organic in nature.
How to Use Tampons for Beginners?
Using a tampon for the first time can be a daunting task. It might sound easy when a female is taught but when it comes to practically inserting it, it can be tough. The process gets harder if you do not have a female figure around you to guide you.
However, inserting a tampon is not as painful as it might sound. At first, it will take some tries. But after that, you will get used to it. There is no need to worry since most of the rumors you have heard about tampons and their pain and difficulty are either false or rare events.
Tampon Parts
First of all, let us look at the two main parts of a tampon. The first part is the tampon that will be inserted inside the body. The second part is the applicator that you will use to insert the tampon.
There is also a tube below the applicator which is called the plunger. You will also see a string at the bottom. This is what you will pull on to get the tampon out.
Inserting a Tampon
So, now that the main parts of a tampon have been mentioned, it is time to look at how a tampon is inserted. First of all, it is important to wash your hands properly and then open the tampon wrapper.
There will be a picture of the tampon on the cover. So, if you see any flaws or missing parts in the tampon you have opened, do not use it. Pull on the string to make sure that they are securely attached to the tampon.
After that, you have to get comfortable. Tampon insertion gets much easier once you are comforted. You can sit on the floor or keeps standing while keeping one leg on the toilet seat. To put the tampon inside, follow the steps given below:
- Holding the applicator, place the tip of the tampon into your vagina.
- Keep an angle of 45 degrees.
- Gently, move the tapered applicator inside until your thumb and finger are touching your body.
- Push the plunger using your pointer finger all the way in.
- The tampon will be released in this way, and the plunger will be inside the barrel.
- Hold the plunger and pull out the applicator. Be very gentle and do not pull too hard.
- The tampon will be inside of you comfortably while the strings will hang outside.
- Now, throw away the applicator. Do not flush applicators.
If you feel any discomfort or pain, this means the tampon is not inside correctly. It is probably not far up enough. So, you can try the process again with another tampon. When the tampon is in its place right, you will not feel any pain or discomfort.
Removing the Tampon
To remove the tampon, get in a comfortable position, and try to relax your muscles. Then, gently put the strings, and this will make the tampon slide out easily. Do not flush the tampon. Instead, throw it away.
Important Things to Remember
There are a few things that you must remember when using tampons. First of all, you must not use tampons for non-menstrual discharge. It is important to change the tampon every 4 to 8 hours.
You can wear tampons overnight, for 8 hours of comfortable sleep. At the end of your period, remove the last tampon. Some women forget to remove a tampon, and this can be harmful.
Do not flush away tampons or applicators. Instead, put them in waste containers.
What is Toxic Shock Syndrome?
Every time tampons are discussed, toxic shock syndrome also comes up. It is a rare condition, but it is quite serious that may even result in death. There are many signs and symptoms of TSS, such as:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Fainting
- Dizziness
If you see any of these signs while wearing a tampon, it is essential that you remove the tampon. Also, consult your doctor about the issue.
Females are at risk of TSS when they use tampons during their periods. There have been studies that show that tampons can cause toxic shock syndrome.
The age group at risk is women under 30 years of age. So, when using tampons for beginners, it is very important to be careful since teenage girls at also at risk. There are 1 to 17 cases of TSS in every 100,000 menstruation women annually.
There have been some studies which show that higher absorbency tampons increase the risk of TSS. So, you should go for tampons that are average for your flow. Or if you are too scared, you can stop using tampons altogether to stay safe from this risk.
What are the Benefits of Using Tampons?
As a beginner, you have an option to choose between tampons, pads, and menstrual cups. There are many women who start with a pad and then shift to tampons and other options.
However, after that, tampons are a great option. They have many benefits over pads, and a lot of people use tampons to stay comfortable during their period.
Small Size
Even though there is no need to be ashamed of your period, there is still a stigma surrounding periods. This is why if you take pads in an office place or school, people will stare and make you uncomfortable.
On the other hand, tampons are very small in size so they can be carried easily. You can put one in your pocket. Also, most tampons come with noiseless packaging so you can open them in public bathrooms without letting the entire bathroom know.
No Wet Feeling
When you are wearing a pad, you always feel wet due to the liquid being in contact with your skin. This is quite gross for some women, and they feel uncomfortable.
If you do not want the liquid to bother you, then you can use a tampon. Some women might be squeamish about blood while others may feel unclean about having bloodied pad in their underwear for so long.
For these women, tampons are a great alternative to avoid that sensation.
Freedom of Movement
Tampons provide a lot of freedom of movement as compared to pads. When you are wearing a pad, the pad will move around a lot in your underwear if you are moving a lot.
On the other hand, while wearing a tampon, you can play sports without worrying that the tampon will displace. Another benefit of using tampons is that you can swim easily. You do not have to worry about leaking over your bathing suit.
This is why most sporty girls use tampons. Tampons help you move easily and with much more freedom.
Not Feeling Them
When you are using pads, you will always feel them in your underwear since a pad is in touch with your skin. On the other hand, this is not a problem with tampons since they go inside your body.
You will not even feel that a tampon is present inside you. It is very easy to enjoy during your period if you are wearing a tampon and does not constantly remind you that you are bleeding.
Visibility
If you are wearing thinner pants, there is a possibility that the pad’s line will be visible. Now, this should not be an issue but there are people who feel embarrassed about it. So, if you want to save yourself the embarrassment, you can use tampons during your period.
How to Pick Tampon Size?
Tampons come in different sizes, and there are many that you can choose from. If you are a beginner, then you should buy the smallest tampons size. If you feel like it is too small for you, then you can move up a size.
Toxic shock syndrome is caused mainly due to high absorbency and larger tampons. So, it is best if you use the smallest possible tampon that can soak up the moisture for your flow.
However, if you do have a heavy flow, Tampax and U by Kotex make some of the best tampons for a heavy period. Do not use smaller tampons if you have heavy flow because then you will have to change the tampon every 2 to 4 hours.
For girls who are using tampons for the first time, slim tampons are the best. These are also advertised as junior tampons. They are the smaller size, making it comfortable for the newbies to use.
Also, choose a tampon that has the smallest applicator size. As a beginner, it is biter to go for plastic applicators rather than cardboard inserters.
Another thing that most beginners do is that they wear a slim panty liner along with tampons. This ensures that there is no staining. As a beginner, you do not know if you have placed the tampon properly.
So, it is better if you have a pad, just in case. Make sure that you insert the applicator only as deep as it allows. Sometimes, newbies insert it too high up and the applicator gets stuck.
Frequently Asked Questions
⭐ Can a tampon get lost inside my body?
This is just a rumor. A tampon cannot get lost in your body since the cervix is too small. It does not allow a tampon to pass through it.
If you stick up a tampon too high, it might hurt, but it will not pass through the cervix.
⭐ At what age can I start using tampons?
You can start using tampons at any age. Some people start using them as soon as they get their first period. If you have found the right size for yourself and you are comfortable with them, you can use tampons even in your teenage years.
⭐ Do all tampons cause Toxic Shock Syndrome?
Tampons are associated with toxic shock syndrome. There is no specific company or type of tampon that can cause this problem. All tampons can be the reason for toxic shock syndrome.
However, it has been seen through a study that tampons that are heavy absorbents pose a larger risk of the syndrome than lighter flow tampons.
⭐ Should take out a tampon hurt?
When you are taking out a tampon, you will feel some discomfort, but the process should not hurt. Try changing the size of your tampons. If the problem is still there, talk to your doctor about it.
⭐ How often should I change my tampon?
Tampons should be changed every 4 to 8 hours. Even if you have a light flow, it is important to take out the tampon after 8 hours. This protects you from infections and is a good hygiene practice.
⭐ How do tampons work during swimming?
Some women think that tampons absorb water from the swimming pool. This is not true. Tampons do not absorb the water from the swimming pool.
Instead, they do not let the blood come out of your body and mix into the water. If the tampon is inserted properly, you will be able to swim easily. After the swim, make sure to change the tampon.
⭐ Are tampons comfortable?
If you are using them properly, tampons are quite comfortable. Some women fear that a tampon will cause pain. This is not true if you are using the tampon properly
It will only hurt if it has not been inserted properly. Also, the comfort level of tampons depends on the person using them too. Some people are generally not comfortable with inserting something inside them while others are just too scared.
⭐ Can I sleep with a tampon in?
Yes, you can sleep with a tampon. However, do not sleep for too long as the tampon must be removed after 8 hours. If a tampon is left too long in the body, it can cause toxic shock syndrome.
⭐ Is Toxic Shock Syndrome common?
This depends on your personal preference. For some people, pads might be a better option while others like to use tampons.
They both have their pros and cons. Pads are easy to use, do not cause toxic shock syndrome, do not hurt, and are comfortable.
On the other hand, tampons do not cause pad lines, and you can wear them while swimming and they save you from the squeamish feeling of wetness.
Final Verdict
As a beginner, it is your choice which tampon you would like to use. It is best to start with smaller tampons so that you can learn. Using a tampon will be hard at first, but once you get the hang of it, you will be quite comfortable.
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