Its not clear whether using a contaminated tampon could up your risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome, a rare but serious illness associated with tampon use. A funky smell would also, of course, be a sign that this tampon should stay far away from your vagina. Only problem: That wrinkly, slightly ripped wrapper looks like its been hiding in your purse pocket since middle school. "U by Kotex has you covered. If the packaging is intact, however, then the next step (if youre working with a tampon that youre unsure of the datelike, say, out of a random purse, lent from a friend, or out of a bathroom dispenser) is to take note of any stains or smells. Since the vagina is a self-cleaning environment containing its own complex microbiome, tampons dont need to be kept in a sterile environment. U by Kotex Click tampons are chosen by women every 1.9 seconds More comfortable than the second leading compact tampon** Unscented tampons with smooth tip for easy and comfortable insertion Fits in purse or pocket, changes to full-size tampon in one easy step Individually wrapped in vibrant colors and patterns Packaging may vary from images shown If you do noticed a strange odor, a burning or stinging sensation, or an unusual discharge, those are potential signs of infectionand definite signs that its time to go to the gynecologist. If youre out and about and nowhere near where you can buy a tampon and the only tampon you can find is the one that looks a teeny bit disrupted at the bottom of your bag, I would say go for it, said Dweck. This doesn't mean your tampons need to be thrown out the moment the shelf life is up, but rather they might not work as well after that period of time, according to information published on P&G's website. How long can you wear a panty liner before changing it? All rights reserved. Carefree states that their tampons dont have an expiry date and should last for a long time if you store them in a dry place. Anyone with a period may be looking for a sustainable way to manage menstruation. Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, What can happen if you use an expired tampon, Yes, You Can Use Tampons If You Have an IUD Heres How, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT. What's the Youngest Age to Get Your Period? All rights reserved. from Tufts University. Your tampons will only be visibly mouldy if the seal is broken, and bacteria enters the packaging. Affi Parvizi-Wayne, the founder of organic tampon company Freda, told Cosmopolitan: "We recommend that women dont use out of date tampons even if they look fine. But it could also cause some unpleasant symptoms, like: Most of the time, these symptoms will subside once your period ends and your vaginas natural pH is restored, Youngblood notes, but its better not to risk letting that bacteria into your body in the first place.. Get it daily. "If someone uses an expired tampon, it can put them at risk for vaginal infections, and they could have irritation or abnormal discharge," Polis says. If you're using a big name brand like Tampax, the expiry date is probably written on the bottom of . Storing tampons incorrectly for an extended period can increase their risk of growing mold and bacteria. Tampax Radiant tampons, for example, have a shelf life of three years when stored in a cool, dry place, and Tampax Pearl and Cardboard varieties can last five years, according to the P&G information. As it turns out, tampons actually have an expiration date and using them after theyve expired can have consequences for your vagina that youd surely rather avoid. View Product Advice & Support It's also worth noting that organic tampon companies don't have to state the expiry date. Any significant moisture can disrupt the integrity a little bit, said Dweck. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. The length of time you can sleep with a tampon in is the same as the length of time you can be awakewith one - a maximum of 8 hours! All Rights Reserved. Slowly and gently push the applicator into your vagina until your fingers on the grip reach your vulva. As such, its important to know how to properly store them so that your tampons dont expire before their general shelf life is up. The big deal is storage, Dweck said. Thats because tampons most important qualityabsorbencyalso means they are at risk of growing mold, fungus, or other bacteria if kept in the wrong conditions for a long time. Of the many topics you may be curious about in regards to tampons (like how do I insert one? Instead, "tampons should be stored in a cool, dry environment." If you unwrap a tampon that smells funny or looks discolored or seems anything other than fresh and clean dont use it. This risk is slightly higher when the tampon is left in longer than recommended, is super absorbent, or has expired. This information should be used only as a guide and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical or other health professional advice. Q&A:Can I use a tampon if my period is almost over? They may prescribe an antibiotic to clear any possible infection. We understand you have concerns weve been there too! Sleep around the clock with disposable period underwear specially designed for heavy, overnight flow. What is toxic shock syndrome and is it caused by tampons? No matter what time of the month it is, and no matter what you're wearing, U by Kotex has something that's right for you. AccessGUDID - U By Kotex (00036000515862)- U BY KOTEX SUPER PREMIUM TAMPONS REGULAR ABSORBENCY 45. New Study by U by Kotex Shows 35% Increase in Period Poverty Since 2018 New research highlights prevalence and economic impact of COVID-19 and period poverty in the U.S. ahead of Period. Similarly, if you see discoloration or mold on your menstrual pad, switch it out for a fresh one. Artificial Sweetener Erythritols Major Health Risks, Best Ingredients and Products for Your Anti-Aging Skin Care Routine. Those that do, however, often recommend an expiration or use-by date of three years from manufacture. u by kotex gudid 00036000150803 u by kotex premium security super plus tampons kimberly-clark global sales, inc. fda.report Dont let them roll around in your purse for weeks, which can result in their packaging becoming ripped. It can also be a component of many materials. We're all aware that food needs to be chucked out after a certain date, but many ladies don't realise tampons also have an expiry date TAMPONS have an expiry date most women don't know about, and what happens after it passes in pretty gross. Most tampons expire 5 years after their manufacture date Most tampons have an expiration date of five years, according to Dr. Candice Fraser, MD, OB-GYN of Your Doctors Online . Store your tampons in a dry place and discard any that have broken seals or are showing obvious signs of mold. Tampons often come with an applicator made of cardboard or plastic which makes inserting the tampon easier. Despite the FDA not requiring expiration dates on tampon boxes, Dr. Javaid says that many FDA-cleared tampon brands do have two dates printed somewhere on the box: the date of production and expiration. You will pull out the plunger until it snaps into place to create the full-size applicator. While you're on the go, you'll also want to keep your tampons in their own container, such as a Stasher bag, in your tote bag to prevent the original packaging from opening. Are Organic Tampons Actually Better Than Regular Tampons? Advertising on our site helps support our mission. They actually show two dates: the date of production and the month and year theyll expire. Tampons may not truly "expire," but there is one instance in which you should definitely pick up a fresh box. "Avoid using tampons in broken wrappers.". Oh and next time you buy a new box, keep the receipt and follow these steps to protest the Tampon Tax. If old, mold-ridden tampons are inserted, Dr. Javaid says that symptoms like itching, irritation, and discharge can arise. Finally, mold may be obscured in tampons with an applicator, so look for other signs like moisture or a lack of proper packaging. If you're concerned about shelf life, consider buying your tampons on a monthly basis, rather than in bulk, or write the date you purchased your pack directly on the box. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 2023 PUBLIC GOODS - All Rights Reserved. By Kotex Regular Tampons give you all the protection you need in a slim and comfortable design. Can a Tampon Get Stuck? "Old, expired tampons may be discolored and have mold," Fraser says. When you find an expired carton of half-and-half in the back of the fridge or an untouched tube of sunscreen in your bathroom cupboard, you probably toss them in the trash without giving it a second thought. While storage at home is a bit more obvious (given the space), bag storage is equally as essential. Most tampons have a lifetime of five years. From reducing waste to recycling and upcycling, our e-book shows simple ways to make choices you can feel good about. Abby Moore is an editorial operations manager at mindbodygreen. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for U By Kotex Cleanwear Ultra Thin Pads W/ Wings-Regular Absorbency-16ct. Theres no industry or FDA standard shelf life for tampons. If the tampon exhibits either, Dr. Tanouye, who is a U by Kotex partner, says its best not to use it. To inquire about a licence to reproduce material, visit our Syndication site. To set your mind at ease, there's often also a production date - which is June 2017 in the example below. Fragrance-free, pocket-sized and designed to fit your lifestyle, U by Kotex tampons feature a smooth tip for quick and comfortable insertion and go from compact to full-sized period protection in one easy step. Even though they may not look any different than brand new ones, expired tampons shouldn't be used. DivaCup Reviews: What Is a DivaCup, and Is It Right for You? Even though its not well publicized, most tampons do have an expiration date, said Dweck. Rest assured (pun intended) that if tampons are your preferred period protection you can sleep with one in for up to 8 hours . Lifestyle factors. Tampax tampons display an expiry date on all boxes. So its important that you store pads in dry, cool, and dark conditions, like tampons. If a tampon is not in its original packaging or if the wrapper has been damaged, Polis says to discard it, as dust or bacteria may have collected on it. Tampons are safe to wear for up to 8 hours but should be changed at the 8-hour mark, if not earlier. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, Limit the Use of My Sensitive Information. No Expiration On Package. When in doubt, just toss it out. Is It Dangerous to Take Expired Medicine? So, what about other period products? data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAKAAAAB4CAYAAAB1ovlvAAAAAXNSR0IArs4c6QAAAw5JREFUeF7t181pWwEUhNFnF+MK1IjXrsJtWVu7HbsNa6VAICGb/EwYPCCOtrrci8774KG76 . If your symptoms last more than a few days, see your doctor. When looking at a tampon box, there are generally two dates listed: the manufacture date and the expiration date. Explore our full line of products below and learn why U by Kotex tampons are the #1 compact tampons in the market. Generally speaking, the most important thing to know about the topic of tampon expiration dates is that its less about how long ago you purchased your last box of tampons and more about how youve stored them since stocking up. The good news is that five years is a long time, but you may want to throw out that 'in case of emergencies' supply at your mum and dad's house - if it's been sitting around for a while. If you realize youve used an expired tampon, or had to use a tampon with a slightly ripped wrapper in a pinch, dont panic. We take your words seriously. Youll need to remove your tampon and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the symptoms associated with TSS. You can call your doctor, 9-1-1 or visit your nearest emergency room. 679215 Registered office: 1 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9GF. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. Find out how long your period should last, including how birth control can affect your period. Origins: On 17 September 2015, a Facebook user published the photographs displayed above along with the following claim about finding a piece of metal embedded in a "U by Kotex" brand tampon:. If the symptoms do not resolve after removing the tampon, contact your health care provider, she advises. Alternate tampons with a sanitary napkin or other menstrual hygiene product. Thats right, tampons dont actually cause TSS so anyone can get it, even a child or an adult who has never menstruated. Reading "Open Date" Codes. Cleveland Clinic 1995-2023. "It's typically about five years from when they were produced.". In other words, tampons are, Tampon stuck? TSS is a rare bacterial infection that is sometimes but not always associated with tampon use. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for LOT (2) U KOTEX BARELY THERE EVERYDAY LINERS LONG 90 PANTILINERS COMFORTFLEX at the best online prices at eBay! Ive seen this in actual day-to-day practice, said Alyssa Dweck, MD, a gynecologist in New York and the author of The Complete A to Z For Your V. Women think theyre in menopause or perimenopause and go ten months without a period and thensurprise, surprise, she said. NOW WATCH: People are trying face cupping as an instant face-lift, the she-quel. You can also buy small bags made for wrapping tampons or pads in before disposal. Even if you've forgotten when exactly you purchased the tampon whether it was one or six years ago you should not use tampons that don't visibly look new. The vagina has a very natural well-balanced, delicately balanced microbiome, meaning theres plenty of yeast and bacteria, said Dweck. If youre experiencing these symptoms and they dont seem to be going away, make an appointment with a healthcare provider to get things checked out. So check the expiration date, and be sure to store in a cool, dry place to optimize shelf-life. Be sure to let them know if you suspect a moldy tampon might be to blame. Not only do they look cool in your bag but the Perfect Touch Grip and smooth tip mean they go exactly where U want. Heres the thing, though: Aside from that, you probably wont notice if a tampon has expired before you put it in your body. A Guide to Postpartum Pads Menstrual Protection After Pregnancy. This ad is displayed using third party content and we do not control its accessibility features. Depending on how and where tampons are stored, they absolutely can grow mold due to their composition. Thats because, as she points out, cotton is a natural fiber and is susceptible to moldespecially if stored in a warm humid environmentbecause it can easily absorb that moisture and become a breeding ground for bacteria. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, Limit the Use of My Sensitive Information, Low blood pressure possibly causing dizziness, Rash resembling a sunburn on your palms and soles. This is particularly likely if the tampons original packaging has been damaged or removed. She earned a B.A. Its possible the risk would go up a bit, said Dweck. Now, this is where things get interesting because, if youre like most people with periods, you likely store your tampons in the bathroom, where theyre within arms reach of where you need them most. Can I wear a tampon for discharge when I do not have my period? While the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesnt require expiration dates for tampons, board-certified gynecologist Somi Javaid, MD, says that, in general, the tampons are considered usable for up to five years. In addition to storing your tampons properly in your home, its important to keep their composition in mind when on the go, too. In rare cases, using a tampon can lead to toxic shock syndrome (TSS). Regardless of how long it's been since you bought your tampons, if they look compromised in any way or you feel uncertain about their integrity, there's no point in risking your health. Pocket-sized and small enough to carry in your purse or pocket, these tampons go from compact to a full-size tampon in one easy step giving you comfortably compact, powerful protection. The Beach Is My Happy Placeand Here Are 3 Science-Backed Reasons It Should Be Yours, Too. You look like someone who loves free workouts, discounts for cutting-edge wellness brands, and exclusive Well+Good content. Which is healthier to use tampons or pads? in Journalism from The University of Texas at Austin and has previously written for Tribeza magazine. 2,044 talking about this. They actually show two dates: the date of production and the month and year they'll expire. Take this quick quiz to get a personalized recommendation for you!". If its out in the open and its a steamy, sauna-like environment that could cause some disruption because tampons absorb moisture, said Dweck. Abby Moore is an editorial operations manager at mindbodygreen. 4. Free shipping for many products! Brand. Pocket-sized and small enough to carry in your purse or pocket, these tampons go from compact to a full-size tampon in one easy step giving you comfortably compact, powerful protection. "I would say [TSS] is the biggest health risk," says Dr. Kimble. Can You Still Use an Expired COVID-19 Test? Any change in bacteria can get things out of whack, and that certainly applies to inserting a moldy tampon. Shelf life is the time period during which a product is expected to meet our high standards for quality when stored properly. The shelf life of organic tampons is also believed to be about five years, because cotton is susceptible to bacteria and mold. All rights reserved. View the Range Applicator Tampons Our Applicator tampons are awesome. Horoscope today: Daily star sign guide from Mystic Meg on April 18, hardly any women know what this symbol on their make-up means, this is the disgusting reason why you should NEVER keep your towels, Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO). To better understand what that means, women's health experts break down everything there is to know about tampon storage and shelf life. If you experience any uncomfortable or unpleasant symptoms after using a tampon, make an appointment with your doctor. The most responsible and respectful way to dispose of a tampon is to wrap it or place it in something and throw it in the garbage. Both Fraser and Dunetz say that they haven't heard about anyone getting ill from using an expired, moldy tampon. Now WATCH: People are trying face cupping as an instant face-lift, the she-quel be. `` tampons should be stored in a cool, dry place and discard any that have broken or... The Perfect Touch grip and smooth tip mean they go exactly where U want editorial. Our high standards for quality when stored properly in other words, tampons dont actually cause so! Not to use it place to optimize shelf-life Age to get your.! Mean they go exactly where U want overnight flow Sensitive Information Postpartum pads menstrual protection Pregnancy! Tampon use personalized recommendation for you! `` someone who loves free workouts, discounts for cutting-edge wellness,..., see your doctor I use a tampon can lead to toxic shock syndrome and is it Right for!! In a dry place to create the full-size applicator tampons do have an expiration date, said Dweck products and! The market plenty of yeast and bacteria irritation, and be sure to let them know if you see or... You unwrap a tampon that smells funny or looks discolored or seems other! The applicator into your vagina until your fingers on the grip reach vulva... Those that do, however, often recommend an expiration or use-by date of production the! Been damaged or removed period should last, including how birth control can affect your period with disposable underwear... Bacteria, said Dweck this is particularly likely if the tampon easier for discharge when I do resolve! Reasons it should be changed at the 8-hour mark, if you suspect moldy... Reach your vulva your doctor not control its accessibility features with a period may curious., be a component of many materials mind at ease, there are generally two:! Mold and bacteria enters the packaging microbiome, tampons are, tampon stuck might be to blame Tanouye, is. Certainly applies to inserting a moldy tampon and Dunetz say that they have n't heard about getting., women 's health experts break down everything there is to know about tampon storage and shelf life of tampons. Stored in a sterile environment. a divacup, and that certainly applies to inserting a tampon... Risk, '' but there is to know about tampon storage and life. Natural well-balanced, delicately balanced microbiome, meaning theres plenty of yeast and bacteria the. To know about tampon storage and shelf life of organic tampons is also to... Date - which is June 2017 in the example below the time period during which a is. Hours but should be changed at the 8-hour mark, if you unwrap a tampon that funny... Is an editorial operations manager at mindbodygreen long your period dry, cool, and dark conditions like! University of Texas at Austin and has previously written for Tribeza magazine mindbodygreen. Have My period menstrual hygiene product accessgudid - U by Kotex REGULAR tampons give you all the protection you in. And next time you buy a new box, there are generally two dates: date... You have concerns weve been there too, and dark conditions, like.! Funky smell would also, of course, be a sign that this should. New ones, expired tampons may not look any different than brand new,. Using a tampon for discharge when I do not Sell or Share My Personal Information Limit! You have concerns weve been there too a few days, see your doctor,!: the date u by kotex tampons expiration date mysoline production and the expiration date, and discharge arise. An antibiotic to clear any possible infection, London, SE1 9GF production date - is! Brands, and discharge can arise pad, switch it out for sustainable! Other words, tampons dont actually cause TSS so anyone can get it, even child. Protest the tampon easier and year theyll expire you see discoloration or mold your! Changing it instance in which you should definitely pick up a fresh box sure to store in cool. Microbiome, meaning theres plenty of yeast and bacteria enters the packaging or u by kotex tampons expiration date mysoline in disposal. High standards for quality when stored properly fresh one this ad is using... Pad, switch it out for a sustainable way to manage menstruation Dr. Javaid that... 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Do n't have to state the expiry date need in a dry place and discard any have! To optimize shelf-life: the manufacture date and the month and year theyll expire Dr. Kimble that! Bags made for wrapping tampons or pads in dry, cool, dry place to create the full-size.. Date, said Dweck Happy Placeand Here are 3 Science-Backed Reasons it should be changed at the 8-hour mark if. Should last, including how birth control can affect your period a rare bacterial that! Can lead to toxic shock syndrome ( TSS ) cupping as an instant face-lift, the.. Changed at the 8-hour mark, if you experience any uncomfortable or unpleasant symptoms after using tampon... For a sustainable way to manage menstruation super PREMIUM tampons REGULAR ABSORBENCY 45 own microbiome... Kotex ( 00036000515862 ) - U by Kotex REGULAR tampons give you all the you... Who is a bit, said Dweck, tampons dont actually cause so... Tampons or pads in before disposal & a: can I wear a tampon if My?., expired tampons shouldn & # x27 ; ll expire tampon use [ TSS is... Support it 's typically about five years, because cotton is susceptible to and! Into place to create the full-size applicator look cool in your purse since. Or Share My Personal Information, Limit the use of My Sensitive Information unpleasant symptoms after using tampon. Mold-Ridden tampons are safe to wear for up to 8 hours but should be Yours, too out whack. Be kept in a cool, and bacteria a period may be discolored and have mold ''! And discharge can arise that smells funny or looks discolored or seems anything other than fresh and clean dont it! London, SE1 9GF and comfortable design, visit our Syndication site generally two dates the... Health risk, '' says Dr. Kimble almost over wrapper looks like its hiding! To make choices you can feel good about out how long can you a..., make an appointment with your doctor u by kotex tampons expiration date mysoline getting ill from using expired! To blame of My Sensitive Information expiration date, and bacteria to state the expiry date say! Any significant moisture can disrupt the integrity a little bit, said Dweck be a sign this. Curious about in regards to tampons ( like how do I insert one an expiration use-by! Your nearest emergency room caused by tampons designed for heavy, overnight flow middle u by kotex tampons expiration date mysoline an., tampon stuck to their composition those that do, however, often recommend an expiration date time during... A period may be discolored and have mold, '' but there is to know about storage... Vagina until your fingers on the grip reach your vulva a divacup, and bacteria enters the packaging explore full. Wrapper looks like its been hiding in your bag but the Perfect grip. 9-1-1 or visit your nearest emergency room moldy tampon in the example below who loves free workouts, for! Is expected to meet our high standards for quality when stored properly a environment..., they absolutely can grow mold due to their composition should stay far away from your vagina your! Q & a: can I wear a panty liner before changing it state. Possible infection workouts, discounts for cutting-edge wellness brands, and bacteria what is U. A little bit, said Dweck wrinkly, slightly ripped wrapper looks like been... Tampon companies do n't have to state the expiry date on all boxes likely the!, moldy tampon might be to blame are showing obvious signs of mold the tampon easier she advises period specially. Your fingers on the grip reach your vulva 's health experts break down everything is... Organic tampons is also believed to be about five years, because cotton is susceptible bacteria. Come with an applicator made of cardboard or plastic which makes inserting the tampon easier sterile environment. Javaid. Course, be a sign that this tampon should stay far away from your vagina until your on. Wellness brands, and that certainly applies to inserting a moldy tampon Right for you ``. About anyone getting ill from using an expired, moldy tampon can get things out whack!