Pads, or sanitary napkins, come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and absorbencies. Overnight types are usually the bulkiest and the most absorbent, and panty liners are the smallest and the least absorbent. Women use different products depending on the heaviness of their flow. Tampons are made of soft absorbent material and are inserted into the vaginal opening, like a battery into a flashlight, resting in the vaginal canal to absorb menstrual fluid. Tampons also come in various sizes and absorbencies, with or without deodorant, and with or without applicators.
Brands also differ in size, effectiveness, and comfort.
They may also be used with pads as backup in case they leak. Women can use tampons even if they haven't ever had sexual intercourse, and using tampons does not affect virginity. Tampons with applicators usually have two parts, one that surrounds the tampon and is inserted into the vagina, and a thinner tube that acts like a plunger to push the tampon out of the plastic or cardboard. Make sure the string is hanging out of the bottom of the applicator. Hold the tampon at the point where the two tubes meet with your thumb and third finger.