Um, this is an awesome question. High five for asking it. So, as long as you don’t have one single tampon in for any longer than 8 hours, you’re set and good to go. There isn’t a time limit on how long you can use tampons in general, simply a time limit on how long you should use one single tampon before changing it out.
As a mom, I advise my girls to listen closely to the advice of health experts like our Real Answers panelist Sandy Knauf. Recently, she answered a question very similar to yours. She advised that longer wear is associated with problems like irritation, tearing, and infections; including toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Plan on changing your tampon every four to eight hours for the safest and most reliable protection. But it’s totally fine to wear tampons all day, every day during your period as long as you change them as recommended!
Some “rules” are easier to bend than others. The 8-hour time limit is recommended because after 8 hours of wear you are more likely to develop an irritation or infection from the tampon (including the complication of TSS – Toxic Shock Syndrome). Because the potential complications outweigh the benefit of you wearing a tampon for longer than the recommended time, I think it’s important to find an alternative to wearing a tampon longer than 8 hours. You could try either some nighttime pads or a menstrual cup at night. I know trying new things can be difficult, but I think it is also just as important to do the right thing for your body to stay healthy!
Peer Answer: Um, this is an awesome question. High five for asking it. So, as long as you don’t have one single tampon in for any longer than 8 hours, you’re set and good to go. There isn’t a time limit on how...
Learn MorePeer Answer: Using a tampon definitely takes some getting used to! I definitely think the best way to make tampons feel more comfortable is make sure it’s inserted as far as possible. When inserted properly, it...
Learn MoreThis is not intended to be medical advice. Everybody is different so please make sure to consult your physician if you're having issues. Do not delay or refrain from seeking professional medical advice from your physician because of something you have read on this site.
Check out these smaller-sized pad with heavy-flow absorbency. U by Kotex Teen® Pads are totally perfect for your younger girls learning the ropes and have vibrant colors with cool patterns.
View ProductSay hello to your new favorite pad for heavy flow days. U by Kotex® Cleanwear® Pads feature Xpress DRI® Core for crazy, fast absorption to help stop leaks.
View ProductGo from compact to full-sized protection in one quick move with U by Kotex® Click® Tampons. Perfect for travel and pocket-sized, to go where U go!
View ProductThis super-thin pad has some crazy fast absorption that you can trust. And with its added length and uniquely shaped wings. It'll keep you comfortable while helping stop leaks dead their in tracks.
View ProductTracking is simple! Use our FREE Period Calculator to figure out when your next period starts.