Can You Sleep with a Tampon In?
A tampon is a small, narrow mass of cotton-like material, designed to absorb your menstrual blood during your period. The word "tampon" originates from the medical French word, "tampion", which meant a piece of cloth that acts as a plug to stop a hole! Fitting eh? Tampons are widely used in modern society during your period, due to its discreet size and comfort, but they do have hidden dangers.
Many commercially available tampons are made with odor neutralizers, and other artificial fragrances, colors, polyester, adhesives, etc. Things you do not really want to put up there for extended periods (!!) of time.
As tampons are designed to absorb the blood flow, the cotton and synthetic fiber, called Rayon, can also absorb too much moisture leading to vaginal dryness and discomfort. How long can you leave tampons in for all depends on these facts.
There is also a risk to TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome), a very real risk to women who use tampons. TSS is a severe complication of bacterial infections, as the blood that is collected in a tampon can be a breeding ground for the bacteria Staphylococcus auerus, or staph.
It is fairly rare, but can be potentially fatal. This is why tampons are recommended to be changed and discarded every four to eight hours.
With our generally recommended sleeping hours of between seven and nine hours, sleeping with a tampon inserted is not ideal. Especially with the risk of TSS, and having a dry vagina! If you sleep naked, that little tampon string is not ideal or discreet either.
Can you sleep with a tampon in for more than 8 hours, hence, is a no.
Why You Should Switch To A Menstrual Cup
Menstrual cups on the other hand are are little bell shaped cups that are inserted into your vagina, collecting the menstrual blood while you’re on your period. The little cup collects the blood as it empties from the uterus, past the cervix, before it leaves the body.
As the menstrual blood doesn't leave the body until you empty the cup, then the whole process can be quite clean once you have the hang of it. Menstrual or period blood has no smell/odor, but the blood can start to smell when it mixes with air and bacteria starts to develop. This is what causes tampons and sanitary pads to smell after a few hours.
Sounds disgusting? Read some Common Facts about Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are also mostly made out of medical grade silicone that is safe for your body, and depending on your flow, can be left inside your body for up to 12 hours. This makes it a great alternative to tampons or sanitary pads, especially for while you are sleeping. Don't ask can you sleep with a tampon in but rather ask yourself why am I still using tampons?
By switching over to menstrual cups, you can feel cleaner and safer with your period!
