Facts Vs Myth
The Center for Baby and Adult Hygiene Products is the only U.S.-based organization dedicated to advancing the personal absorbent hygiene products industry in North America
MYTH
There are no specific guidelines for using tampons; I can purchase and use them in whatever way I choose.
FACT
The FDA has issued guidance for consumers, and tampon manufacturers provide instructions and other information on and in tampon packaging. Following the instructions/inserts that come with the tampons is very important to ensure you are safe and hygienic during your period. Follow these best practices whenever you use tampons:
Always use the lowest absorbency possible
Wash your hands before changing the tampon
Change your tampons after 4-8 hours of use, sooner if they are full
Do not use the tampon to absorb vaginal discharge, it is only for menstrual blood
Do not flush the applicator or the tampon
MYTH
Purification of the cotton in my pads and tampons produces dioxins.
FACT
Purifying and cleaning fibers used in feminine care products is important for making them hygienic and removing residues within these raw materials as a result of farming or harvesting practices. Current practices for purification utilize the Elemental Chlorine Free (ECF) or Total Chlorine Free (TCF) methods. The FDA considers these methods to be safe and dioxin free.
MYTH
There is asbestos in my tampons.
FACT
Tampons do not contain asbestos and have never included asbestos. The FDA has found no evidence of asbestos being present in any U.S. tampon. The FDA reports that asbestos is not an ingredient in tampons and the agency conducts regular inspections of tampon manufacturers to ensure there is no contamination.
MYTH
Tampons and pads need to be changed every 2 hours.
FACT
Tampons and pads should be changed depending on flow and comfort. Consistent with FDA guidance, tampons can be used safely for up to 8 hours, but should be changed sooner if they are full.
MYTH
When it comes to tampons, more absorbency is better.
FACT
Always wear a tampon with the lowest level of absorbency for your needs. This will provide the best comfort, including during removal, as well as keep TSS risk low. In other words, don’t use “super” when a “regular” will do just fine.
MYTH
If you use tampons, you’ll lose your virginity.
FACT
You’re a virgin until you have sex. Using tampons doesn’t change your virginity.
MYTH
You shouldn’t use tampons until you reach a certain age.
FACT
If you’re old enough to have a period, you’re old enough to use a tampon.
MYTH
Tampons can get lost inside you.
FACT
Once you insert a tampon, it stays in your vagina until you use the string to remove it, and it does not and cannot travel anywhere else in your body. Learn more.
MYTH
Tampon use puts me at risk for cervical cancer.
FACT
Cervical cancer has not been scientifically or medically linked to the use of tampons. Some risk factors for cervical cancer are listed by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and include:
Human papillomavirus (HPV)
Smoking
Having HIV
Using birth control pills for five or more years
Having given birth to three or more children
Having several sexual partners
Learn More
MYTH
The adhesives used in my feminine care products could pose safety concerns.
FACT
The adhesives on feminine care products can only be used on the product if there is sufficient data to support safety when used in menstrual products. Therefore, the adhesives in products have a favorable safety profile, meaning that they are safe to use, including that they have been demonstrated to not irritate the skin. Pads are also designed in a way that limits direct skin contact with adhesives.
MYTH
There are pesticides in my feminine care products.
FACT
For materials that are grown in soil, like cotton, suppliers and/or pad and tampon manufacturers thoroughly clean and purify all fibers to ensure environmental and agricultural residues are removed. Regular assessments are performed in order to confirm that all materials in finished pad and tampon products are safe for use.
MYTH
Tampons cause Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
FACT
TSS is caused by a bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus. Tampons do not introduce Staphylococcus aureus during use. This is an organism already present on your body and harmless for most people. Only a small portion of the menstruating population is even susceptible to getting TSS. To reduce your risk of TSS, the FDA recommends that you do not use a higher absorbency of tampon than necessary and to not use for longer than eight hours without replacing. Learn more about TSS and tampons.
MYTH
Pads, pantiliners and tampons are not regulated.
FACT
Pads, tampons, and liners are regulated as medical devices by the FDA and must undergo rigorous evaluation before they can be sold. Tampons are Class II medical devices, similar to contact lenses and blood pressure cuffs. They require premarket notification to the FDA prior to marketing.
MYTH
Scented feminine hygiene products will make me itch down there.
FACT
If a woman does not have sensitivity to perfume and fragrances, it is unlikely that she will be sensitive to the fragrances used in feminine hygiene products. There is no known increased risk for reactions among women using scented pads or tampons. However, it is recommended that women who may already have allergies or sensitivities to fragrances and those who prefer fragrance-free products use unscented products. Learn more.
MYTH
There is one “best” type of feminine care for all women.
FACT
Only you can determine the feminine care product that best fits your needs. If you have any questions, ask your doctor.
MYTH
Colors used in feminine care products will soak into my body.
FACT
Every ingredient in feminine care products is rigorously researched and evaluated and proven to be safe. When used, colors are bound to the product and don’t transfer to the body.