Tampons are a widely used menstrual hygiene product, offering discreet and effective protection during menstruation. These products come in various absorbency levels, designed to match the diverse needs of individuals throughout their menstrual cycle. Understanding the different absorbency options is important for comfort and proper use.
Defining Ultra Tampon Absorbency
“Ultra” tampons represent the highest absorbency level available, specifically designed for individuals experiencing very heavy menstrual flow. Regulatory bodies, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), standardize these absorbency levels to ensure consistent labeling across products. An “Ultra” tampon is rated to absorb between 15 and 18 grams of fluid.
This absorbency measurement is determined through a standardized laboratory procedure known as the Syngyna test. This test uses a device and saline solution to mimic menstrual fluid, measuring how much a tampon can absorb before leaking.
Beyond “Ultra,” other common absorbency levels include “Light” (6 grams or less), “Regular” (6 to 9 grams), “Super” (9 to 12 grams), and “Super Plus” (12 to 15 grams). These classifications help individuals select the most appropriate product for their specific flow, which often varies throughout their period.
When Ultra Absorbency is Needed
Ultra absorbency tampons are specifically engineered for situations involving very heavy menstrual flow. A menstrual flow is considered very heavy if it requires changing tampons every one to two hours, if large blood clots are frequently passed, or if bleeding persists for more than seven days.
These highly absorbent tampons are particularly suitable during the heaviest days of a menstrual period, which often occur at the beginning of the cycle. They may also be appropriate for individuals with medical conditions that result in unusually heavy bleeding. Ultra tampons are not intended for light or moderate flow, as using an absorbency level higher than needed can have implications for safe use.
Safe and Effective Tampon Use
Selecting the lowest effective absorbency for one’s menstrual flow is important to minimize potential health risks. Using tampons with a higher absorbency than necessary, especially when flow is light, has been associated with an increased risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). This rare but serious condition is caused by toxins produced by certain bacteria, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus.
Symptoms of TSS can develop suddenly and include a high fever, a rash resembling a sunburn, flu-like symptoms such as body aches, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, and low blood pressure. If any of these symptoms appear while using a tampon, it should be removed immediately, and medical attention should be sought without delay.
Preventive measures include changing tampons regularly, every four to eight hours. Washing hands thoroughly before and after tampon insertion is also advised to maintain hygiene. Alternating tampon use with sanitary pads, particularly overnight or on lighter flow days, can further reduce risk. Tampons should only be used during menstruation.