Menstruation (cont.)
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 How often should I change my pad/tampon?
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You should change a pad before it becomes soaked with blood. Each woman decides for herself what works best. You should change a tampon at least every 4 to 8 hours. Make sure to use the lowest absorbency tampon needed for your flow. For example, use junior or regular tampons on the lightest day of your period. Using a super absorbency tampon on your lightest days increases your risk for toxic shock syndrome (TSS). TSS is a rare but sometimes deadly disease. TSS is caused by bacteria that can produce toxins. If your body can't fight the toxins, your immune (body defense) system reacts and causes the symptoms of TSS (see below). Young women may be more likely to get TSS. Using any kind of tampon puts you at greater risk for TSS than using pads. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends the following tips to help avoid tampon problems:
If you have any of these symptoms of TSS while using tampons, take the tampon out, and contact your doctor right away:
SOURCE: womenshealth.gov. Menstruation. Last Editorial Review: 10/21/2009 Patient CommentsViewers share their comments
Menstruation - Your Period
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Menstruation - Problems
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Menstruation - Age at First Period
Question: How old were you when you started your period? Briefly, describe what that first experience was like.
Menstruation - When to See a Doctor
Question: What motivated you to see a doctor about your period? Please discuss your experience.
Menstruation - Pads and Tampons
Question: How often do you change your pad or tampon? Why do you prefer one over the other?
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