You should change your tampon every 4 to 6 hours as a general guideline. It is safe to leave a tampon in for up to 8 hours, but you should never wear a single tampon for more than 8 hours at a time to reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS) and other infections
. The frequency of changing tampons depends on your menstrual flow:
- If you have a heavy flow, you may need to change your tampon every 2 to 3 hours or closer to the 4-hour mark to avoid leaks and discomfort
- For lighter flows, you can often leave a tampon in for 6 to 8 hours without issue
Using the correct absorbency tampon for your flow is important. You should use the lowest absorbency needed to avoid dryness or discomfort and switch absorbencies as your flow changes throughout your period
. A good way to know when to change your tampon is if it feels easier to pull out or if you notice leakage. Setting a reminder can help you remember when to change it
. In summary:
- Change every 4-6 hours typically
- Never exceed 8 hours
- Change more frequently if flow is heavy
- Use appropriate absorbency for your flow
This routine helps maintain hygiene and minimizes the risk of TSS and other infections
