Tampon packaging uses a standardized system for comfort and safety. Tampons are medical devices regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. The FDA mandates specific labeling to help users choose the appropriate product for their menstrual flow. Understanding this system is essential for preventing leaks and minimizing health risks, as the absorbency level measures the tampon’s capacity.
Deciphering the Standard Absorbency System
The letter ‘L’ on a tampon or its packaging represents its absorbency level, which most commonly stands for “Light.” This standardized system is based on the amount of fluid, measured in grams, that a tampon can absorb using a laboratory test called the Syngyna method. The FDA recognizes five distinct absorbency categories, each corresponding to a specific fluid absorption range.
The lowest category is “Light,” designed to absorb 6 grams of fluid or less. “Regular” tampons absorb between 6 and 9 grams, followed by “Super” (9 to 12 grams), and “Super Plus” (12 to 15 grams). The highest absorbency is “Ultra,” which can absorb between 15 and 18 grams.
Determining the Right Absorbency for Your Needs
Selecting the correct absorbency is a matter of matching the tampon’s capacity to the intensity of your menstrual flow. Since flow is typically heaviest during the first one or two days of a period, it is often necessary to use different absorbency levels throughout your cycle. A tampon is considered the correct absorbency if it is fully saturated, but not leaking, when you change it every four to eight hours.
If a tampon is completely soaked through in less than four hours, switch to the next higher absorbency level. Conversely, if the tampon feels dry or uncomfortable to remove after four to eight hours, the absorbency is too high for your current flow. Using a lower absorbency in this instance is advisable to reduce potential irritation and dryness.
Tampon Absorbency and Safety Precautions
Standardized absorbency labeling is directly linked to the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a rare but serious bacterial infection. Research indicates an association between using unnecessarily high absorbency tampons and an increased risk of developing TSS. Health professionals recommend using the lowest absorbency necessary to manage flow without leakage.
The increased risk relates to highly absorbent tampons potentially causing micro-tears in the vaginal wall or remaining in place longer. This creates an environment where the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria can thrive and produce toxins. Tampons must be changed at least every eight hours to prevent bacterial overgrowth. If you plan to wear a product for longer than eight hours, such as overnight, opt for a pad or other menstrual product instead.