What percentage of people have never used tampons? Explaining three reasons for the low usage rate!

"I've never used a tampon before, is that weird?"

If you only use sanitary napkins during your period, you may have questions like these.
There are few surveys on experiences with tampon use, and the results are unclear.
However, many people in Japan do not use tampons, and data shows that only 20% of people use them on a regular basis.
In other words, not using tampons is not at all uncommon.

In this article, we will explain in detail the reasons for the low usage rate of tampons, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of tampons.
By reading to the end, you will have a correct understanding of tampons and find tips on how to choose the right menstrual product for you.

It is unclear what percentage of people have never used tampons, but about 20% use them regularly.

The exact percentage of Japanese people who have never used tampons is unknown.
However, some surveys have shown that only about 20% of people regularly use tampons , which shows that this is not a large number. [1]
On the other hand, it is said that about 70% of people in Europe and about 40% of people in the United States use tampons, so the usage rate in Japan is clearly low. [2]
The reason behind this is thought to be the anxiety that people who have never used tampons tend to have.

Should I avoid using tampons? Three concerns that people who have never used them have

If you've never used tampons before, you may have some concerns:

• Because it looks painful

• Because it seems difficult to use

• Because urine gets on the string and it becomes unsanitary.

These concerns can be alleviated by gaining the right knowledge.
Let's take a look at each one.

Because it looks painful

Tampons are menstrual products that are inserted into the vagina, so many people feel that they are painful or scary. If you are particularly resistant to inserting them into the vagina, this can be a psychological hurdle.
However, there are areas of the vagina that are less likely to cause discomfort, and if inserted properly, there is little discomfort or pain. [3]
Also, many people who experience pain during insertion do so because they tense up .
Taking a deep breath and relaxing may help with smoother insertion.

Because it seems difficult to use

Unlike pads, tampons must be inserted directly into the vagina, which many people find difficult .
Since you cannot see the vagina directly, you must insert it using only your senses, which may seem like a high hurdle for first-time users.
Another cause of anxiety is the lack of opportunities to learn how to use the device.
Recently, some tampons come with videos explaining how to use them, so checking them out beforehand will give you peace of mind when using them.

Because urine gets on the string and it becomes unsanitary.

Some people avoid using them because they are concerned that urine will get on the strings and make them unsanitary.
When you're using a tampon, the string of the tampon sticks out of your vagina.
Tampons can be left in for long periods of time, so you rarely need to change them every time you go to the bathroom.
This can cause urine to get on the string, making the tampon unsanitary.
As a countermeasure, you can prevent urine from sticking to the string by lightly holding it close to your buttocks when urinating.
If the laces become stained with urine, it is best to replace them to keep them clean.

How to Use Tampons Correctly | Basic Information for Beginners

To ensure proper use of tampons for beginners, here are some basics to know: [4]

• Follow the usage regulations and handle it cleanly

• Alternate between tampons and pads

• Remove if there is pain or discomfort

• Don't cut the string

Following these instructions will ensure safe use, so be sure to do so.

Follow the usage regulations and handle it cleanly

To avoid problems when using tampons, it is important to follow the usage instructions .
Failure to follow the instructions can increase your risk of infection and vaginal inflammation.

When handling tampons, be sure to follow the following points:

• Do not insert more than two at the same time

• Wash your hands before handling a tampon

• Replace it within the time specified in the manual.

If you follow the precautions, infection and inflammation are rare.
Don't be overly concerned and read the instruction manual carefully before using.

Alternate between tampons and pads

If you use tampons continuously for longer than the recommended time, bacteria can easily grow in the vagina, which can rarely lead to an infection.
Therefore, be sure to remove the tampon within the time specified on the product, and after removing it, alternate between using a napkin and another tampon.

Remove if there is pain or discomfort

If the tampon is in the right place, it shouldn't hurt or feel uncomfortable.
If you experience any discomfort, remove the tampon and try inserting a new one.
If you feel pain even though the implant is in the correct position, one solution is to reduce the size.
Tampons, like pads, come in a variety of sizes, including "normal" and "heavy flow."
Although the amount of absorption will be less, going down to a smaller size may reduce pain and discomfort.

Don't cut the string

Never cut the string coming out of the tampon.
If you don't leave the string out, the tampon may get stuck.
If the string breaks and you are unable to remove it, don't panic and visit an obstetrician-gynecologist to have it removed.

4 benefits of using tampons

The benefits of using tampons are:

• Prevents menstrual blood from leaking due to misalignment

• Compact and easy to carry

• No discomfort when menstrual bleeding occurs

• Easy to match with any outfit

Once you understand the benefits, you may be less resistant to tampons.
I will explain each one.

Prevents menstrual blood from leaking due to misalignment

Tampons are inserted into the vagina, so they are less likely to leak menstrual blood due to slippage.
When using a pad, changing your position can cause it to shift position and cause menstrual blood to leak.

On the other hand, tampons are inserted inside the vagina so they do not slip out, and they are less likely to become stuffy or cause odors.
This item can be said to eliminate the problems that are often caused by menstruation, such as menstrual leakage, stuffiness, and odor.

Compact and easy to carry

Tampons are small and light, making them easy to carry around.
Having a few spare ones doesn't take up much space, so you can keep them in your pouch or bag for peace of mind when you're out and about.
Tampons are a convenient item, especially when you want to reduce the amount of luggage you need to carry when traveling or on a business trip.

Also worth reading: How to carry sanitary napkins without being noticed at work

No discomfort when menstrual bleeding occurs

Tampons absorb menstrual blood directly into the vagina, reducing the sensation of menstrual flow and discomfort.
For those who don't like the sticky feeling, tampons can be a stress-reducing item.
It's especially comfortable when exercising or on active days.

Easy to match with any outfit

Because tampons are inserted inside the vagina, they do not leave visible lines like pads, even when wearing tight skirts or pants.
For those who find it difficult to choose what to wear during their period, tampons are an item that gives you more fashion freedom.
This will also be a great benefit for those who have to wear tight clothing for work or events.

3 disadvantages of using tampons

There are three main disadvantages to using tampons:

• Menstrual blood may leak

• Your hands get dirty when you remove it

• Some people experience pain or discomfort during insertion

We will explain in detail the disadvantages and countermeasures for each.

Menstrual blood may leak

Tampons are less likely to leak than pads, but they can still leak if they're the wrong size .
For example, if you use a "regular" tampon on a heavy flow day, it may not be able to absorb enough and may leak.
Here are some recommended ways to prevent menstrual leakage:

• Choose a tampon size that matches your menstrual flow

• Avoid prolonged use and replace at appropriate times.

• Use it in combination with napkins or absorbent shorts to prepare for leaks.

Doing these things will help prevent menstrual leakage and allow you to deal with it quickly if it does occur.

Also worth reading: What causes menstrual blood to leak when using tampons? Five ways to prevent leaks

Your hands get dirty when you remove it

When removing the tampon, pull it out by the string that comes out of the vagina.
However, if the diaper is not able to absorb all the menstrual blood and soaks into the string, your hands will get dirty if you touch the string directly .
To prevent your hands from getting dirty, we recommend using toilet paper.
If you hold the string over the toilet paper and use the toilet paper to catch the absorbent pad when you remove it, it will be less likely that menstrual blood will get on your hands.
It's also a good idea to have some wet wipes on hand when you're out and about.

Some people experience pain or discomfort during insertion

When using a tampon for the first time or when you are nervous, you may tense up around your vagina, causing pain or discomfort when inserting it.
If your body is not relaxed, your vaginal muscles will try to push outwards, making insertion difficult.
To ease the pain and discomfort during insertion, try to relax your body as much as possible by taking deep breaths or playing relaxing music.

Who should use tampons?

Tampons are recommended for the following people:

• Those with heavy menstrual bleeding

• People who play sports or exercise

• People who go out or travel for long periods of time

Read on to find out if it suits your lifestyle.

Those with heavy menstrual bleeding

If you have a heavy flow and are worried about leaking even when using heavy-duty pads, we recommend using tampons.
Tampons absorb menstrual blood directly into the vagina, reducing the risk of leakage compared to pads.
Additionally, keeping menstrual blood inside the vagina reduces the odor that is characteristic of menstruation. [5]
Not only does it reduce odor, but it also reduces stuffiness, which may help reduce the discomfort you've been suffering from during your period.

Also worth reading: Is there a way to eliminate menstrual odor? Five measures for those who use sanitary napkins

People who play sports or exercise

Tampons are ideal for people who play sports or exercise regularly , as they won't slip out even when you move your body if they are inserted properly .
For example, even when you are doing active activities such as dancing, playing tennis, or running, you don't have to worry about it getting wrinkled or slipping off like a napkin.
It is also recommended for those who play in the park with their children or who move around a lot at work.

Also worth reading: 6 ways to enjoy sports comfortably during your period without using sanitary napkins

People who go out or travel for long periods of time

When you're out and about or traveling, there may be times when you can't go to the toilet frequently.
Using tampons reduces the hassle of changing them and makes them more comfortable.
Another advantage of tampons is that they are compact and easy to carry, minimizing your luggage.
Recommended for those who want to reduce stress during travel or events.

Types of tampons and how to choose them

There are several types of tampons, and using the right one will ensure a comfortable experience. It's important to get the right information beforehand so you can make a smooth selection when purchasing your first one.

Types of tampons

There are two types of tampons:

The applicator is a plastic tube that assists with insertion. Its design makes it easy to see how far to insert it, so it is recommended for first-time users.

On the other hand, the finger type requires you to insert the absorbent material with your fingers, so it is not recommended for those who are uncomfortable inserting their fingers directly into the vagina.
If you're using a tampon for the first time, it's a good idea to choose one with an applicator that makes it easier to insert.

How to choose a tampon

When choosing a tampon, keep these two things in mind:

• material

• size

Tampons are often made from synthetic fibers or organic cotton. If you are uncomfortable with inserting synthetic fibers into your vagina, it is best to choose organic cotton products.

Just like with sanitary napkins, it is also important to choose a size that suits your menstrual flow.
If you use a "light diaper" on a day when your menstrual flow is heavy, it may not be able to absorb all the blood and may cause leakage.
On the other hand, if you use a diaper for heavy periods on days when your menstrual flow is light, friction can cause pain when you remove the diaper.
Choosing the right size based on your menstrual flow on the day you use it will help reduce leakage and pain, so when you first start using it, it's a good idea to change it frequently and keep track of your menstrual flow.

summary

It is not clear what percentage of Japanese people use tampons, but it is said that less than 20% use them on a regular basis .
Tampons are often avoided because they seem painful or difficult to use, but if used correctly, they can help reduce discomfort during your period and make it more comfortable.
Nowadays, there are many products to choose from, not just pads and tampons, but also menstrual discs and menstrual cups.
Why not take this opportunity to consider which sanitary products are right for you?

Also worth reading: What is a menstrual cup? Explaining its structure, how to use it, and frequently asked questions

References

[1] "Survey on the impact of 'menstrual poverty' on women's physical and mental health" - Simple summary results | Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
[2] Be Active Products for Female Athletes and Para-Athletes: Juntendo University
[3] Tampons | Japan Sanitary Materials Industry Association
[4] About TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome) | Japan Sanitary Materials Industry Association
[5] Characteristics of Tampons | Japan Sanitary Materials Industry Association