That time of the month is not our favorite pastime, right ladies? I mean sometimes it totally surprises us or shows up right when you have an important event to attend. So those trusty tampons surely do come in handy at those and other occasions.
But did you know there are some facts about tampons many of us don’t even realize? Check these out and learn more.
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1. First To Market
The tampons officially became marketable when the applicator was invented in 1931 as it was taboo to insert them manually or be that intimate with oneself.
2. A Discussion Point
They were seldom discussed until the 1970s in order for the woman to be able to preserve her modesty. We couldn’t care less about that today.
3. World War II
Their popularity spiked during World War II as women took over many jobs left behind by men going off to war. Somebody had to work!
4. Working Women Needed Something More Flexible
During those times women needed to be more comfortable picking up a variety of jobs and tampons made things much easier. This makes total sense, of course.
5. Tampons Expire
Even though tampons are made of cotton they actually come with an expiry date. Don’t use that old tampon if you’ve had it for five years because they can develop mold. Who knew?
6. They Can Contain Chemicals
Unfortunately, tampons’ ingredients aren’t regulated so they can contain chemicals. So, try to avoid synthetic fibers and chemical additives. Going organic is a really good idea.
7. They Can Be Uncomfortable
Not everyone’s body is the same and that’s why some people can experience discomfort using tampons. Make sure you change them often or stay away.
8. Don’t Keep Them In Overnight
Even though you should be able to avoid an accident sleeping with a tampon, keeping them in that long is not good for you. Try using a menstrual cup or overnight pads instead.
9. Tampon Are Associated With Toxic Shock Syndrome
Only about 1 in 100,000 menstruating women can get this rare condition, but that’s why you should change them often.
10. You Need To Use The Right Absorbency
This is exactly why tampons come in all sizes. So you can choose the right one for you depending on your cycle.
11. You Can’t Lose A Tampon Inside You
This might be a concern for someone who just started using tampons, but trust me, it won’t happen. Your cervix will block that tampon from going any further.
12. Tampons Don’t Cause Yeast Infections
Yeast develops when there’s overgrowth of Candida which is naturally present in the vagina. It is usually triggered by certain medications and antibiotics.
13. They’re Not Sterile
Tampons aren’t technically sterile so you have to make sure you store them in a place where bacteria can’t get to them. Otherwise, you risk getting an infection, or your tampons could even grow mold.
I have to admit this was a great little lesson in tampon history.
Sometimes you think you know a product you’ve used for a long time but really, do you?
