The new hygiene products are fundamentally changing the market for women's hygiene products today.
It is estimated that a woman uses about 20,000 tampons in her lifetime, not to mention countless sanitary pads. However, their use has always raised concerns about their safety. Today, it is increasingly common for women to suffer from tampon allergies and disturbances in their intimate hygiene. With each menstrual cycle, their life becomes a nightmare. As with many other allergies, it usually manifests as a red, painful, itchy rash, only now it occurs in the genital area. What is the cause? Are there alternatives? The Sisters' blog provides answers.
What substances can cause a tampon allergy?
Tampons are made from materials known for their absorbency, which their manufacturers even refer to as a key factor in their success. Some brands claim that their tampons can absorb up to ten times their own weight. In addition to ingredients such as odor neutralizers, glyphosate, and chemical additives, foam, cotton, and synthetic fibers are also part of the composition of tampons.
"Unfortunately, not all of these ingredients are always disclosed, with some manufacturers citing patent reasons. However, the combination of several ingredients and their contact with the body can have negative effects on health over time. For example, in the case of sanitary pads with wings, plastics and other chemicals restrict free air circulation and trap heat and moisture."
This can promote the development of fungal and bacterial infections in the intimate area. While some women experience mild irritation of the genital skin, others may suffer from severe allergic reactions when using tampons and disposable pads.
What are the symptoms of a tampon allergy?
An allergic reaction to tampons causes itching, redness, and swelling in the genital area. It is very rare for such an allergic reaction to spread throughout the body.
The ingredients of tampons can also pose other health risks. Although it has not yet been proven, tampons could theoretically affect a woman's immune and hormonal system.
The greatest risk associated with tampons that is known today (fortunately, this occurs only rarely) is Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). It is caused by toxins due to an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina after the use of tampons.
TSS occurs most often when the tampon has been worn for too long or even forgotten. Affected women experience fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and shaking. To avoid the risk of spreading the infection to other organs, prompt treatment is necessary, as TSS can be fatal.
The period slips from Sister Republic are completely free.
from harmful substances or additives:
Does the allergy show up with the first use?
An allergy to tampons can occur very late in life. It can manifest during adolescence, but also only in adulthood. However, if you have always felt uncomfortable or uneasy while wearing them, you are most likely sensitive and may develop this allergy.
The vast majority of allergies develop over time. A woman whose period lasts several days (5, 6, 7 days) and who constantly wears tampons is at risk of developing an allergy because she is too exposed to the toxic components of the tampons.
Should one avoid tampons?
The best way to eliminate any risk is to not wear one! Instead, opt for external menstrual hygiene made from Oeko-Tex fabric, such as the period underwear from Sister Republic. However, if you really can't do without tampons, you should keep certain things in mind to avoid their possible side effects. Choose a brand that lists the ingredients or opt for products made from organic cotton. If you notice irritation with a specific type of material, switch brands.
"Super-absorbent" tampons may have more side effects, so choose the lowest absorbency. Change tampons frequently, preferably every 3 to 4 hours. Avoid wearing a tampon overnight; instead, use menstrual underwear that is not aggressive to the skin, provides effective protection, and offers unparalleled comfort. The period panties from Sisters Republic, for example, are equipped with a protective layer that extends to the back, making them perfect for leak protection even when lying down.
Of course, you don't need to wear a tampon if your period hasn't started yet. Here too, it makes sense to wear period underwear to protect yourself from the expected menstrual flow.
Finally, you should also be careful that your vaginal mucosa is not injured when inserting the tampon.
Should I ask a gynecologist for advice?
If you notice persistent symptoms due to the use of tampons or other hygiene products, you should see your gynecologist as soon as possible.
"It is important to conduct a thorough investigation, as it may also be another issue. Therefore, you should first ensure that it is not a bacterial overgrowth or a pH imbalance."
"Because there are also other diseases that can cause irritation, burning, pain during sex, redness, itching, and/or swelling in the genital area."
As soon as the diagnosis is made, it is easier to treat the complaints!
What are the alternatives to tampons?
"In addition to the various brands that produce hypoallergenic and/or 100% cotton tampons, you can also try the following during your period:"
- There is a period slip:The market offers numerous popular brands for menstrual panties. Sisters Republic allows women to feel free during their menstruation. The best solution if you want to avoid pads and tampons.
"For women who have a heavy menstrual flow, this is certainly a better alternative than washable pads. The period panties are very absorbent, can be rinsed in cold water, and washed in the machine with your other underwear."
- The menstrual cup: Ideal for women who have a heavy menstrual flow and need to change tampons frequently. Although it is comfortable when inserted correctly, it does require skill and a certain adjustment period for insertion and removal, and studies have shown that it does not protect against toxic shock.
- Washable women's pads: Washable pads can also be a solution. These narrow, colorful women's pads do not contain substances with endocrine effects or chemicals and have become one of the most popular menstrual hygiene products on the market, highly appreciated by young girls and students. The only downside is that they need to be washed more often than period underwear, which is not very practical when you are in the office or at university all day, and that they are more likely to leak and cause stains because the pads can shift, fold, etc., while with period underwear, the protective layer is an integral part of the panties and therefore cannot shift.
