Top 3 Period Symptoms That Could Be Caused by Your Pads or Tampons

Most women don't realize that the menstrual products they use, including tampons and disposable pads, may contribute to many of the uncomfortable symptoms they experience each month.

We tend to assume these symptoms are just hormonal, genetic, or simply part of being a woman. Sometimes they are. But sometimes, the products themselves are the issue.

If you're reading this because periods feel like a monthly battle, here are three symptoms that could be linked to the feminine products you're using.

1. Heavy Period Bleeding

According to the CDC, menorrhagia is the term used for menstrual bleeding that lasts more than seven days or is very heavy.

Heavy bleeding may include:

• Needing to change your pad or tampon every 2 hours or less
• Passing clots at least the size of a quarter
• Avoiding leaving the house because of how much you're bleeding

If any of these apply to you, please speak with your doctor to rule out an underlying medical condition.

If your doctor doesn't find a hormonal or physical cause, it may be worth reconsidering the products you're using. According to a PubMed study, traces of dioxin have historically been found in conventionally bleached disposable products. While modern manufacturing has improved, many women still prefer alternatives that avoid bleached materials altogether.

2. Headaches and Migraines

According to The Cleveland Clinic, 70% of migraine sufferers are women, and many of them notice a clear connection between their headaches and their cycle.

While most menstrual headaches are hormone-related, it's worth knowing that certain risk factors are associated with internal-use products. The Mayo Clinic lists superabsorbent tampons among the risk factors for Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a rare but serious condition. Menstrual cups have also been associated with TSS in rare cases.

Switching to an external-use product like reusable cloth pads removes this risk entirely.

3. Severe Stomach Cramps

Most of us have come to accept abdominal cramps as just part of having a period.

While it's true that the uterus contracts to expel blood and tissue, severely painful cramps that keep you in bed all day are not normal. If that's your experience, talk to your doctor.

Some gynecologists also note that synthetic fragrances and added chemicals in disposable products can irritate sensitive skin, which may worsen overall discomfort during your period.

If you've been using disposable products and noticed sensitivity, switching to PFAS-free, fragrance-free, hypoallergenic options like reusable cloth pads can be a game-changer.

Also worth noting: always check expiration dates on disposable products. Expired products can harbor bacteria that lead to infection.

How Cariona Can Help

If your period is a struggle every month, the products you're using could be part of the problem.

Disposable pads often contain fragrances, dyes, and other additives that some users are sensitive to. These can contribute to irritation, rashes, and discomfort during what is already a difficult time of the month.

Cariona reusable cloth pads are:

• PFAS-free certified
• Fragrance-free and dye-free
• Hypoallergenic and gentle on sensitive skin
• Made with soft bamboo charcoal fabric for all-day comfort
• Available in sizes from light flow to heavy overnight protection
• Backed by our 5-Year Quality Promise

It IS possible to find relief.

Ready to try a gentler option?

Not sure where to start? Try our Trial Pack to test our most popular sizes risk-free, or explore our full reusable pad collection.

Have questions? Contact us anytime. We're happy to help.