Editing Tampon

A '''tampon''' is a mass of absorbent material, primarily used as a [[feminine hygiene]] product. Historically, tampons have been used for a variety of medical applications to control and absorb bodily fluids.
[[File:Tampon with plastic applicator.jpg|thumb|Tampon with plastic applicator]]
== Origin ==
The word "tampon" originated from the medieval French word "tampion", meaning a piece of cloth to stop a hole, a stamp, plug, or stopper.<ref>{{cite web|title=The History of the Tampon|url=https://www.medicaldaily.com/brief-history-tampon-what-women-used-absorb-menstrual-blood-thousands-years-333466|accessdate=}}</ref>

== Design and Usage ==
Tampons are designed to be easily inserted into the [[vagina]] during menstruation to absorb the user's menstrual flow. They are made of cotton, rayon, or a blend of the two. Tampons are sold in various absorbency ratings.<ref>{{cite web|title=How to Choose a Tampon Size|url=https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/how-to-choose-a-tampon-size|accessdate=}}</ref>

== Medical Uses ==
In a medical context, a tampon can be used to absorb exuded fluids such as blood from a wound or body cavity. For example, a nasal tampon might be used to control nosebleeds or to absorb fluids after nasal surgery.<ref>{{cite journal|title=Nasal packing and stenting|journal=Operative Techniques in Otolaryngology|year=|volume=|issue=|pages=|doi=|pmid=|pmc=}}</ref>

== Tampon Safety ==
There are some health risks associated with tampon use, such as [[Toxic Shock Syndrome]] (TSS), a rare, life-threatening complication of certain bacterial infections. However, TSS related to tampon use is extremely rare.<ref>{{cite web|title=Tampons and Asbestos, Dioxin, & Toxic Shock Syndrome|url=https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/tampons-and-asbestos-dioxin-toxic-shock-syndrome|accessdate=}}</ref>

== Application ==
Tampons can be applied by the user themselves or by a healthcare provider in a medical setting. Tampons for menstrual use typically come with an applicator that aids in insertion. For medical use, sterile gloves are typically worn by the healthcare provider during insertion.

The verb "to tampon" refers to the act of plugging a wound or body cavity with a tampon. This can be done to absorb exuded fluids, especially blood, or to prevent the intrusion of foreign substances.<ref>{{Cite book|last=|first=|title=Emergency Care and Transportation of the Sick and Injured|publisher=|year=|isbn=|location=|pages=}}</ref>

== Environmental Impact ==
Used tampons can contribute to environmental waste. Tampons are typically not recyclable and can take centuries to decompose in a landfill. Flushing tampons can also lead to plumbing issues and environmental pollution. Some companies have developed biodegradable tampons and applicators as an environmentally friendly alternative.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nrdc.org/stories/period-products-impact-planet-heres-how-choose-best-options|title=Period Products’ Impact on the Planet (Here’s How to Choose the Best Options)|website=NRDC|access-date=}}</ref>

== Cultural Aspects ==
* Attitudes towards tampons vary worldwide and are influenced by cultural, religious, and personal beliefs. In some cultures, the use of tampons is discouraged or seen as inappropriate due to beliefs about virginity and female purity.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=|first=|title=Global tampon use: social and cultural factors|journal=Sexual and Reproductive Health Matters|year=|volume=|issue=|pages=|doi=|pmid=|pmc=}}</ref>

== External Links ==

* [https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/personal-protective-equipment-infection-control/fda-cleared-or-niosh-approved-n95-respirators-or-masks FDA - Information on Tampons and Menstrual Cups]

== Further reading ==
* [[Menstrual cycle]]
* [[Gynecology]]
* [[Wound dressing]]

== External links ==
* [https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/periods/tampons/ NHS - Tampons]
* [https://www.womenshealth.gov/menstrual-cycle/your-menstrual-cycle/ Women's Health - Menstrual Cycle]
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{{Feminine hygiene}} 
{{Medical devices}}
{{menstrual cycle}}
[[Category:Feminine hygiene]]
[[Category:Personal hygiene products]]
[[Category:Menstrual cycle]]
[[Category:Disposable products]]
[[Category:Vagina]]