The vagina is a self-cleansing organ and introducing perfumed tampons or harsh douche chemicals can cause a vaginal infection or skin irritation. Some women find it helpful during their periods to clean their genital region more than once a day and to once again change pads or tampons frequently. If a bad odor persists after your period ends, check with your health practitioner, as you may have a vaginal infection. Tampons and Pads Tampons and sanitary pads are the primary ways of catching blood flow. Generally unscented pads or unscented tampons with plastic applicators are easiest to use.
Tampons can be more comfortable than pads and allow women to perform in athletics and swimming.
Changing pads and tampons every 2-4 hours is recommended. Some women use sponges or diaphragms to catch their menstrual flow. These women also report that these methods allow for sexual intercourse during menstruation. If you are having these symptoms during or right after a menstrual cycle, go immediately to a doctor. TSS is a relatively rare disease.