When it comes to the spread of misinformation, the medical field is one place that could do without having to debunk myths! These myths can lead to people trying to treat themselves with things that could worsen their condition.

And when it comes to tampons, I’ve probably heard it all! So here are some common myths I’ve heard over and over, and the medically accurate facts to bust them.

MYTH: Tampons take away your virginity.

FACT: Impossible. A tampon is just a tool for period protection. It has nothing to do with virginity. The concern is mostly based on whether a tampon will affect the hymen or not. A tampon is small enough to fit through most vaginal openings without affecting the hymen. Hymen can change shape or “break” with age, weight, and even normal physical activities, not just sex. So, Relax!! Tampon doesn’t take away your virginity.

MYTH: Tampons can get lost inside you.

FACT: Never!! A tampon can go higher in your vagina, but it’s not lost. It’s in there. That’s because your cervix is a barrier between your vagina and your uterus, so basically, your vagina is a dead end. It isn’t just an endless vortex, it’s around five inches long, and there is no way a tampon can get past your cervix     .

MYTH: Tampons cause TSS.

FACT: Tampons don’t cause Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS); it’s caused by a strain of bacteria called staphylococcus aureus. TSS is very rare, but also very treatable, especially when it’s identified early. You should be wary of any changes to the appearance of your vagina, as well as any changes in smell coming from your vagina to help you catch infections like TSS before they become severe.

MYTH: You shouldn’t use a tampon with your first period.

FACT: There is no age for using tampons. Once someone has a period, they are old enough to use tampons. If you’re new to periods or to tampons, just make sure you know how to use them correctly and safely.

MYTH: You shouldn’t sleep with a tampon in.

FACT: It’s always dark in there. Your vagina has no clue if it’s day or night, if you’re awake or asleep, so it’s fine to sleep in a tampon. Just follow the recommendations for safe use by only using a tampon for up to 8 hours. Just put a new tampon in before you go to bed, then remove and replace it when you wake up.

MYTH: You should change your tampon every time you pee.

FACT: Change it based on your flow, not your bladder. You pee from your urethra. Your tampon is in your vagina which is behind the urethra. You can pee without getting your tampon wet. When you pee, it’s a good idea to move the tampon string to the side or back so it doesn’t get soaked by your urine.

MYTH: Organic tampons are safer than non-organic ones.

FACT: No scientific evidence that organic tampons are any safer for your vagina. If living an organic lifestyle is important to you, then organic tampons may be the right choice. But if you don’t use organic tampons, don’t feel anxious or guilty. The safety profile is no different.

MYTH: You can use a tampon to prevent pregnancy

Fact: Why?? You have 100 better options. Tampons can’t fit into the cervical opening, so if you’re wearing a tampon and having sex, you’re only putting yourself through the discomfort. If you’re applying the tampon after sex to soak up the semen, you might be too late, you’re at possible risk for getting pregnant.

MYTH: You can’t use tampons for your first period.

Fact: It’s all about personal preference!!

There’s no reason why a young woman can’t use tampons for her first period as long as you have proper instructions from the insert in the tampon box, articles you’ve read, education by a parent, friend, family member or doctor. Tampons can take a bit of practice and they may seem overwhelming if you’ve never put anything inside your vagina before. But there’s no reason that you can’t use tampons beginning with your first period.

MYTH: Tampons are the Reason Behind Cervical Cancer:

Fact: Cervical cancers are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) which is only transmitted during sexual intercourse. Tampons are as safe as menstrual cups and sanitary pads. They are widely accepted by doctors and there is no proof that tampons cause cancer.

MYTH: A Tampon can Fall: 

Fact: A Tampon cannot fall out of your vagina if it is inserted correctly. Vagina can hold a tampon even if you are working out or running. If a lot of pressure is applied then there are chances that the tampon may fall.

Myth: Tampons increment your danger for endometriosis.

Fact: Tampons have no impact on endometriosis. One reason is identified with feminine stream going “in reverse” out of the fallopian tubes. A few people figure a tampon could obstruct the cervix and send the time frame blood “in reverse” into the uterus and out of the fallopian tubes. Totally Unrealistic. Tampons can’t impede the cervix, and in the event that they get full the flood goes out the vagina, not back into the uterus.

Myth: Tampons loosen up your vagina.

Fact: No way. Vaginas are stretchy regardless. In the event that an infant can emerge from a vagina, a tampon can undoubtedly go in without changing anything.

Sacred place has survived all the lies and myths thrown at them with dignity. The vagina is considered as the most sacred place of a female’s body. Using a Tampon is as easy as using a sanitary napkin. Tampons are not dangerous instead they are a safer alternative, but lack of awareness and knowledge is harmful. Being careful with what you are using is definitely a hygienic start after all it’s your own body.

We hope the article could clarify some common misconceptions surrounding tampons. If you want to try using tampons but are hesitant, we encourage you to engage in more tampon talk with people around you and your healthcare providers and do try MYKI Tampons

Luvleen Chugh