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goatsauceApril 18, 2024
I'm not a tampon user, so I can't contribute to tampon science. I've used the same brand and shape of pads since I found a comfortable one and nearly had a small meltdown at CVS like four years ago when I realized they had changed the name enough that I couldn't determine which was which.
That being said, have you looked into contacting some brands for samples? A LOT of big brands have sample kits that they distribute. I got a thing of OB tampons in a swag bag years ago and a few Kotex pads too. (I did try the OB tampons, and I didn't mind the lack of applicator or how they expanded, I've just been irrationally paranoid about toxic shock since I was a kid.) They'll probably send you some for free if you email them. I've actually done something similar when looking for a shampoo I liked. I was able to get free samples from a couple brands they sell at Ulta and Sephora just by emailing them to ask if I could try a sample to see if it would work with my hair type before committing to whole bottle. It's low risk for a brand to send you a sample in the mail. You could even say it's for your menstruating daughter or something if you really want to lay it on them.
beingApril 18, 2024
I haven't tried to ask brands for samples, but that's a good idea, so thanks for suggesting it. I'll give that a shot and see if I can get any samples sent to me.
I noticed recently that CVS has apparently discontinued a certain style of their store brand pads, so that was disappointing and I'm on the lookout for something to replace that too.
I like o.b. Plus less plastic waste and they seem to protect from leaks more effectively because you kind of flare the base out before inserting.
You could look into other options if tampons aren’t working for you, they aren’t for everybody.
Also, you could possibly donate unused tampons to a women’s shelter since they’re individually wrapped?
beingApril 18, 2024
Previously, when I was trying to find out how to donate some items to the local women's shelter, I couldn't get a response from anyone about what things they accept and where to drop it off and all that. Also, I think some organizations might only take product donations if the whole box/package is unopened.
I'd like to figure out a brand of tampons I find workable for occasions I do want to use one, even if I'll still use pads for other times.
TheChaliceIsMightierApril 18, 2024
Have you ever tried a menstrual cup or disc?
beingApril 18, 2024
I've tried menstrual cups, though not discs. I'm not really planning to go back to using menstrual cups because ultimately I found it too much of a hassle to remove and empty. In the future, I'd probably only use one in an emergency if I had completely run out of other products.
TheChaliceIsMightierApril 18, 2024
That’s totally fair, tampons definitely have some advantages. I tried disposable discs a couple of months ago and they’re not too bad. I hope you find something that works well for you.
[Deleted]April 18, 2024
I found that OB tampons, the ones without applicators, expanded like a cylinder with a flair at the bottom, which worked for me. I appreciated the lack of applicator - less waste, and I used to find applicators uncomfortable. Smaller to carry in a pocket as well. Oops, I see you were looking for applicator recommendations. Well, others may find this useful.
Oh shit I just gave almost an identical answer 😂 and I also posted too quick before seeing the applicator bit
Two out of two women who don't read the post carefully prefer OB!
I don't think that shape is what I'm personally looking for, but the information about how OB tampons expand could be useful for others.