What’s your favorite U by Kotex® product? Write a review>
Click on the cross to close the popups
Question:

Can I wear a tampon for discharge when I do not have my period?

Tampons are not recommended for vaginal discharge. Read on to learn why.

U by Kotex expert Dr. Molly O'Shea
EXPERT ANSWER
Molly O’Shea
As tempting as it is to use a tampon for everyday vaginal discharge, this is not a good idea. Even the lightest tampons are meant to absorb a lot more stuff than you will make in a normal day when you are not on your period. You won’t be wet enough down there and the tampon won’t get full enough to be comfortable going in or coming out. It’s not fun taking out a nearly dry tampon – ouch! It would also be tempting to leave the tampon in much longer than it should be since it won’t be getting filled up quickly, but that could put you at risk for infections in your vagina or more even more serious but rare things like toxic shock syndrome. Bottom line, liners are the better choice for everyday vaginal discharge and save the tampons for your period.
U by Kotex mom Ruth Anne Lemley
MOM ANSWER
Ruth Anne Lemley
If you were my daughter, you would get a big no out of me on this one.  Tampons are for periods (for the medical breakdown please check out Dr. Molly’s response). The good news you have other pretty cool options out there so hopefully you are smiling now! There are super light panty liners that could help you tremendously, and disposable wipes as well. This discharge is something the majority of us deal with so remember you are not alone, just be smart about your choices in handling it.
U by Kotex peer Leah Sipher Mann
PEER ANSWER
Leah Sipher-Mann

Discharge has definitely ruined at least a few pairs of my underwear, but I try to remind myself it's just my body keeping itself clean. See what Dr. Molly has to say! If you think the amount or type of discharge you have is changing, you might want to see your healthcare professional to find out if something else is going on.

Related Articles

U By Kotex Pads And Tampons Article Image.
Default Image
Default Image

This 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.

Which Product is Right for Me?

No matter what time of the month it is, U by Kotex® has something that's right for you.

Allnighter® Ultra-Thin Pads with Wings, Extra Heavy Overnight

U by Kotex® Allnighter® Ultra Thin Extra Heavy Overnight Pads with Wings provide up to 100% leak free protection and have an 80% larger back* for all night protection in any sleep position.

Learn More

Security® Ultra-Thin Pads with Wings, Overnight

For all night protection in any sleep position, try U by Kotex® Security® Ultra Thin Overnight Pads with a 60% larger back*.

Learn More

Teen® Ultra-Thin Pads with Wings, Overnight Protection

Get up to 100% leak free protection with U by Kotex® Ultra Thin Teen Overnight Pads with Wings.

Learn More
U by Kotex® teen® pads, extra absorbency

Teen® Pads - Extra Absorbency

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.

Learn More
U by Kotex® CleanWear® Ultra Thin pads with wings, heavy flow

Cleanwear® Ultra Thin Pads - Heavy Flow With Wings

Say 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.

Learn More
U by Kotex® Click® Compact tampons, super

Click® Tampons Super - Compact Applicator

Go 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!

Learn More
U by Kotex® Security® Ultra Thin pads with wings, heavy flow

Security® Ultra Thin Pads - Long with Wings

This 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.

Learn More