Tampons

In the 1930s there was growing concern in the global science community about whether sanitary pads could also be absorbing fecal bacteria (bacteria found in poo). Tampons began to be promoted as a healthier and cleaner menstrual aid by certain leading doctors, but they took many years to be more broadly accepted in wider society. Tampons were seen as the most taboo of all period products as they had to be inserted into the body, and incorrect myths were immediately attached to them about virginity and purity.

Despite concerns, the first disposable tampons were patented in 1933 under the name “Tampax.” Doctors also advocated the use of tampons with certain patients as there were reports of some who came to them with boils, abrasions and infection in the vulva, all due to incorrect use of disposable sanitary napkins, most being used for far too long. There was a lot of confusion and a lack of instruction as to how to use these new disposable pads, which needed to be changed more frequently than people were used to.