Tampons in the USA

What is a sponge tampon?

It is a small, soft foam sponge that you insert into the vagina like a tampon, and it absorbs period blood. Where the product page states the material, it is usually polyurethane foam. Unlike a cotton tampon, it has no string: it sits at the back of the vagina, adapts to its shape and cannot be seen from outside. That is why it is mainly used for penetrative sex during your period without making a mess, and also when you do not want a string showing. It is easy to insert and remove, although the first few times it is best to take your time.

If you are looking for something reusable for your period, take a look at menstrual cups. The sponge is disposable and designed not to get in the way during sex. For everyday care of the area, see the intimate hygiene section.

Types of sponge tampons

Almost all of them are sponge and string-free. They differ in how they are prepared and in size.

• Dry: they come unlubricated and are moistened with a little water before use, as the leaflet says. Beppy Classic is one example.
• Lubricated: they already contain a gel that helps them go in smoothly. This is the case with Beppy Soft Comfort lubricated.
• Mini and normal: the mini suits a light flow or if you find the normal hard to insert; the normal is for a medium flow.
• Heart-shaped: Joydivision Soft Tampons have this shape and come in mini and normal.
• Small and large boxes: 3 or 4 pieces to try, and 10, 30 or 50 once you know which one works for you.

Safety

Always respect the maximum wearing time given on the product page or leaflet. Because there is no string, it is easy to forget you are wearing one, so it helps to remember when you put it in. Wash your hands before inserting it and before removing it. With tampons there is a rare but serious risk, toxic shock syndrome: if while wearing one you suddenly get a high temperature, vomiting or a skin rash, take it out and see a doctor.

It is not a contraceptive and does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. For that, also use a condom: used correctly, it reduces the risk of pregnancy and infections.

If you need more glide, use a water-based lubricant and avoid petroleum jelly and oils inside the vagina. In a study of 141 women, those who had applied petroleum jelly internally in the last month were 2.2 times more likely to test positive for bacterial vaginosis. Using oils was associated with a higher presence of candida (Brown et al., 2013, Obstet Gynecol).

How to choose

• Size: mini for a light flow or to start with; normal for a medium flow. The product page tells you which is which.
• Dry or lubricated: the lubricated one goes in more easily; the dry one is moistened with water first, as the leaflet says.
• Material: check the product page for what the sponge is made of, especially if you have allergies or sensitive skin; if it does not say, ask us before buying.
• Wearing time: check the maximum number of hours the product page or leaflet allows.
• Quantity: a small box to try the size and a large one once you know which suits you.

Tampons: frequently asked questions

Can you have sex with a sponge tampon in?

Yes, they are designed for that. They sit at the back of the vagina and absorb blood during penetration. If it is your first time, try inserting and removing one on your own first, taking your time.

How do you remove it if it has no string?

With your fingers. Squat or put one foot up on something high, insert one or two fingers, hook the sponge and pull slowly; relaxing helps a lot. If you cannot reach it, wait a while and try again, and if it will not come out, see a doctor.

Can it be reused?

No. It is single-use. Afterwards, put it in the bin, not down the toilet.

Does it work as a contraceptive?

No. It also does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. If you need that protection, use a condom as well as the tampon.

What is the difference from a menstrual cup?

The cup collects the blood and is reusable; the sponge absorbs it and is thrown away after use. The sponge is also soft and has no string or tail, which is why it is chosen for penetrative sex. If you prefer something reusable, take a look at menstrual and vaginal cups.

Can I sleep with it in?

Only if the hours you will be asleep fit within the maximum time given on the product page or leaflet. If not, a sanitary pad is better for the night.

What should I do if it is uncomfortable or itchy?

Take it out. If you notice pain, itching, a bad smell or a fever, do not insert another one and see a doctor.

Browse by brand

• BEPPY
• JOYDIVISION