What happens if you wear tampon overnight?

Both tampons and pads are products used by women to absorb their menstrual flow. Tampons are made using several layers of soft cotton to form a cylinder-like shape. The design of tampon makes it easy to insert it into the opening of the vagina. When the tampon is inserted into the vagina, it absorbs menstrual flow and prevents it from leaving the body. They are available in different absorbances and sizes, and can be purchased from grocery stores and pharmacies.

The type of tampon you need will depend on several factors. Some of the factors you must consider when buying tampon include:

• Lifestyle
• Activities you do
• What your menstrual flow is like

How often should you change your tampon?

It is safe to leave a tampon for up to eight hours during your menstrual period. If you forced to change your tampon more frequently than every 4 hours, it means that you have to buy a tampon that has higher absorbency. On the other hand, it the tampon is dry even after eight hours, you must get a tampon with lower absorbency.

Changing your tampon too frequently can affect its ability to absorb menstrual flow. It is a known fact that tampons expand when they come in contact with moisture. If you remove them too frequently, they will not be able to absorb your menstrual flow completely.

Knowing when to change your tampon

Ideally, a tampon must be changed every four to eight hours. Avoid using it for more than 8 hours. Here are some simple guidelines that will help you in deciding when it’s time to change your tampon. You must be able to remove it easily. If the tampon feels dry or stuck, it means that has not been left long enough to absorb menstrual flow. If the tampon string is wet, it means that it is fully saturated and must be changed. Knowing your period flow will make it easier for you to know when to change it and which tampon absorbency you must use.

Reasons why Tampon Leaks

They are several reasons why tampons leaks. A common reason why tampon leaks is because it has reached full capacity and is no longer able to absorb menstrual flow. Not inserting tampon the right way is another common reason for the leak. Using the wrong absorbency can also be one of the causes for leak. If you use a low absorbency tampon when you have high menstrual flow, tampon will not be able to absorb the flow. At times, you may experience leaks because of the shape of your vaginas.

What happens if you use tampons overnight?

Unless you sleep for more than 12 hours, there is no reason to worry. However, you must change it before going to bed and right after you wake up. Also, several health experts are of the opinion that you should use a menstrual pad instead of tampon if you sleep for more than 8 hours.

Tampons and Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)

Studies have shown that most women develop TSS because they use high absorbency tampon. These tampons have been taken off from the market and you no longer buy these products. Another reason for TSS is because some women use the same tampon for more than 8 hours or use it for several days.

Video Showing How to Use a Tampon

To minimize the risk of TSS

• Change your tampon every four to eight hours
• Wash your hand with antiseptic soap before inserting a tampon
• Use low absorbency tampon whenever possible
• Wear tampon only during your menstrual cycle

Women who suffer from TSS have symptoms that develop quickly. Some of the symptoms of TSS include vomiting, rashes, diarrhea, and fever. If you develop these symptoms when using tampons, you must remove it immediately and contact your healthcare provider. That being said, tampon use is safe and instances of TSS are rare.

References:
http://www.gurl.com/2012/10/27/tss/

http://www.girlslife.com/post/2009/05/05/periods-tampons-tss.aspx

http://www.tampax.co.uk/en-gb/askexpert/tampon-insertion.aspx

http://youngwomenshealth.org/2012/09/27/tampons/