Exact Answer: 8 Hours
Everyone knows that tampons are great for absorbing menstrual flow, but how long can women keep one in is lingering. One can keep a tampon in for 8 hours. There are a few factors that affect the longevity of the tampon.
If one uses a super-absorbent tampon, the risk of some disease increases dramatically because these types of tampons contain more materials that provide bacteria with nutrients and create conditions favorable for their growth. Tampons also pose a risk if left too long as this could cause toxic shock syndrome (TSS).
How Long Can You Keep A Tampon In?
| Type | Duration |
| Tampon | 8 hours |
| Menstrual pads | 3 or 4 hours |
One can keep a tampon in place for up to 8 hours or through overnight activities. Remember to change the tampon every 4-8 hours; the longer it’s in the greater chance of developing toxic shock syndrome (TSS).
Tampons can also be used as a “quick fix” way to manage nosebleeds if someone does not have readily available medicines such as hydrogen peroxide at hand.
However, one should also consider changing the tampon closer to the end of the menstrual cycle for heavier days. To reduce irritation, don’t reuse a tampon after its initial use and wash hands before inserting a new one.
The benefits of tampons include not worrying about leaks or periods during the day, more robust protection on heavier days, and a more comfortable feeling on light days.
However, here is some reason why many don’t prefer to insert tampons:
- Using a tampon expands the vaginal canal, which can increase leakage and the risk of Windsor (a condition caused by bacteria trapped in urine).
- Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is most likely to occur when women leave tampons inserted for extended periods; this time varies among individuals but may be longer than 8 hours. It has not been established that anyone’s length of time exposes women to increased risk for TSS.
- Tampons absorb menstrual fluids and release ‘moisture’; prolonged contact with moisture increases susceptibility to bacterial growth; one should change tampons at least every 4 to 8 hours.
Why Would You Keep A Tampon In For So Long?
It is safe to replace their tampon for 8 hours. Some non-menstruating women have a heavy flow and want to wear a tampon overnight. These women need to replace their tampons more often, which is why it lasts for so long.
A healthy vagina is acidic with optimum levels of lactobacilli, which are bacteria that inhibit the growth of other harmful bacteria that could cause infections or disease.
Using a tampon is an inflammatory process because it takes away the vaginal fluids and physically presses against the intestinal tissues lining the vagina called the “vulva” and “vaginal fornices,” which holds menstrual blood inside the body.
In contrast, normally, menstrual blood flows out of the body and has fibers absorbing substances.
Tampons won’t cause any problems, and one doesn’t need to take them out unless they’re soaked or uncomfortable.
However, tampons harbor potential health risks that can be fatal if left in too long, such as toxic shock syndrome (TSS). The only reason for keeping a tampon in for more than 8 hours would be personal comfort and discretion.
Therefore, it is recommended that tampons be changed at least every 8 hours for safety from TSS. Also, tampon manufacturers do not recommend leaving one inside longer than eight hours because women could experience side effects such as vaginal dryness.
Tampons offer straightforward use with gauze for absorption and guards against menstrual fluid leakage. They also make life a lot easier when engaging in physical activities. Often it is considered more comfortable than a menstrual pad.
Conclusion
There are a few drawbacks that women should be aware of before purchasing a tampon, such as confirming that they have the appropriate uterus length to accommodate them before inserting the tampon inside their bodies.
Tampons can cause vaginal dryness because it pushes menstrual fluids from the cervix further up into the vagina.
This means that if one has a sensitive body or history of TSS, it’s best to use regular absorbency tampons, so they don’t stay in too long or about 8 hours maximum. Also, there are many reasons why we should look into using another form of menstrual product besides tampons.
References
- https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/1471-0528.12151
- https://academic.oup.com/jid/article/188/4/519/873537?login=true
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