The Best Tampons of 2024

It’s hard to believe that the first tampon was invented nearly a century ago. But it’s not hard to believe that women have been using them ever since. Tampons are so popular, in fact, that they beat out every other period product, including pads, menstrual cups and period underwear. 

As you probably know, tampons are inserted inside the vagina to collect menstrual blood, making them a more discreet and convenient option for many, especially when swimming or exercising. However, there can be a learning curve for beginners when it comes to inserting tampons, and it’s important to remember they can increase the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) if not used correctly.

Choosing the right tampon can make all the difference with regard to your comfort, ease of use, and safety, according to the gynecologists we spoke to. That’s why we asked women’s health experts for their top recommendations and advice on what to look for and avoid. With expert input in mind, we spent hours researching options to put together this list of the best tampons, including products featuring innovative leak-proof technology, new organic options and more.

What Healthcare Providers Want You to Know

The tampon aisle can be overwhelming. Here are the most important labels and other factors to consider when making your selection:

• Absorbency: Each tampon manufacturer has its own spectrum of absorbency levels, but they’re usually divided into light, regular, and super. These correspond to your flow, which varies on an individual basis and can even differ depending on where you are in your cycle. Choosing the right absorbency is key because if you go too small, it could lead to leaks, but if you go too big, it can increase the risk of TSS, explains Jamy Bulgarelli, DO, OBGYN at Pediatrix Medical Group in Grand Prairie, Texas. That’s why it’s best to keep a variety of absorbency levels on hand.
• Applicator types: Applicator tampons come inside a smooth, plastic tapered or rounded plastic applicator for easy insertion (cardboard applicators are also an option for those avoiding plastic), making them more popular in the US. Non-applicator tampons—also known as digital tampons because they are inserted with a digit (finger)—are a more affordable and environmentally friendly option, but they’re not as easy to use and are a bit messier. 
• Materials: Cotton and rayon are the most commonly used tampon materials, and they’re both considered safe to use, per the FDA. However, cotton is often tolerated better among most people, says Christy Evans, MD, FACOG, a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist practicing in Los Angeles. Natural fibers like cotton are breathable and less likely to cause irritation compared to synthetic materials like rayon and polyester, she explains.
• Lifestyle and personal preferences: There’s stigma around exercising while on your period, but tampons labeled “sport” or “active” have you covered. These are designed to move with you, so they’re more flexible and may offer more protection against leaks. Other preferences that could influence your decision could include price and whether the tampons are organic.
• Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS): TSS is a rare but serious health condition caused by infection. Though it can occur throughout the body, it’s commonly associated with tampon use. To prevent TSS, Dr. Bulgarelli recommends changing your tampon frequently and avoiding high-absorbency tampons when possible.

What to Avoid in Tampons

In theory, all tampons work the same. However, they’re not all made the same. The gynecologists we spoke to said to watch for the following and consider avoiding them when possible:

• Scented tampons: Products with added perfumes or fragrances aren’t as common as they used to be, but they still exist. Gynecologists we spoke to recommended avoiding tampons with fragrance because they can cause vaginal infections and irritation, especially in those with sensitive skin.
• Higher absorbency tampons than you need: Depending on the brand, tampon sizes can go up to super plus or ultra. Choosing a bigger size tampon if your flow is lighter can increase the risk for TSS, Dr. Bulgarelli says. To reduce the risk, opt for the lowest absorbency tampon that corresponds to your flow.