Why I Don’t Wear Tampons
Nov 26th 2009Green Living & Rest & Self Care
Maybe you think this is an odd question for me
to ask, but do you wear tampons? Or pads? Or both?
It’s important to talk about these things—to feel open
and comfortable conversing about our bodies, our cycles,
and our sexuality. I grew up in silence and shame around
these topics, so believe me, it’s something that I’ve had
to work with. And that’s why I feel it’s so important
for me to further this conversation along.
When I first started menstruating—on a hot summer
evening at the age of 13, I learned right away how to
use a cardboard, Tampax® tampon. And this is what I did
for about the next 8 years. Then I could just pop the
tampon in and wear my bikini or white jeans and forget
all about the fact that I was bleeding.
Things changed after my treatment for cervical cancer,
when my doctor advised me NOT to wear tampons for
several months. When I wore pads instead, I got to experience
the difference.
I experienced how NATURAL and SATISFYING it is
to let my blood flow down, as it should. I felt so much
healthier, softer, and in touch with my cycle—letting myself
wear baggy, comfortable pants on those days and
to avoid baths and swimming. In fact, all ancient
healing traditions advise this for women.
When we wear tampons we inhibit the natural downward
flow of menstruation. This can create congestion
in the uterus—creating anything from uterine fibroids,
to cysts, to menstrual cramps.
Whatever you do choose, please make sure that it’s made of
organic cotton—and none of that synthetic stuff.
Here are some great pads that I like to use:
- Organic, reusable:
http://www.gladrags.com/p-6-gladrags-organic-undyed-day-pads.aspx - Organic, dispoable:
http://www.pandorapads.com/menstrual_pads_natracare_seventh_generation.htm
