5 New Tampons That Passed Our Time-of-the-Month Test

SPECIAL OFFER: - Limited Time Only!
(The ad below will not display on your printed page)

SAVE EVEN MORE! Say "Yes" to Fitness® Magazine today and get a second year for HALF PRICE – 2 full years (20 issues) for just $15. You also get our new Fitness Band and Total Body Express Band Workout ABSOLUTELY FREE! (U.S. orders only)

Email:

First Name:

Last Name:

Address:

City:

State:

Zip:

100% Money-Back Guarantee: You must be pleased, or you may cancel any time during the life of your subscription and receive a refund on any unserved issues – no questions asked. Fitness® Magazine is currently published 10 times annually – subject to change without notice. Double issues may be published, which count as 2 issues. Applicable sales tax will be added. E-mail address required to access your account and member benefits online. We will not share your e-mail address with anyone. Click here to view our privacy policy.

« Back |

5 New Tampons That Passed Our Time-of-the-Month Test

What has your tampon done for you lately? (Besides the obvious!) The latest crop touts pH-lowering power, sports-level protection, and organic cotton. After we tested them, gynecologist Carolyn Westhoff, MD, a FITNESS advisory board member, weighed in on our top picks.

By Lisa Haney

Playtex Sport ($5 for 18, drugstores nationwide)

What's new: This tampon offers sports-level protection; look for "Super+" absorbency, available in March.

Dr. Westhoff says: "Many women bleed more heavily when they're active. A more absorbent product, like this one, may be a better workout choice."

Tester says: "I'm a big fan of these. They're shorter, so they're less noticeable, but they absorb evenly and are totally protective during exercise."

RepHresh Brilliant pH ($7 for 18, Walgreens stores)

What's new: Citric acid and L-lactide reduce pH levels, which increase during menstruation.

Dr. Westhoff says: "Vaginal pH becomes more alkaline during your period, allowing different bacteria to dominate. If you're bothered by irritation and odor, this type of tampon may help."

Tester says: "They were comfortable, and I definitely noticed less smell."

Organyc from Corman ($6 for 16, cvs.com)

What's new: Made with 100 percent organic cotton, the Italian imports are now widely available in the United States.

Dr. Westhoff says: "If you're worried about the environment and chemicals used in the manufacturing process, you may prefer organic."

Tester says: "The organic cotton didn't feel different than that in my usual tampon, but I liked being a tad greener."

U by Kotex Click ($4 for 18, drugstores)

What's new: These compact tampons feature a slim applicator and fun colorful packaging.

Dr. Westhoff says: "I think it's great that we have such a huge amount of consumer choice in terms of sanitary protection."

Tester says: "I appreciate the small package: very discreet and good for travel because it takes up less space in a bag or purse. Just make sure you click the applicator into place, otherwise insertion is tricky -- I didn't realize that the first time I used."

Maxim Organic ($8 for 16, cvs.com, drugstore.com)

What's new: Made with 100 percent certified organic cotton, these tampons are another recent newcomer to the market.

Dr. Westhoff says: "If you're worried about the environment and chemicals used in the manufacturing process, you may prefer organic."

Tester says: "I'm trying to kick my plastic applicator habit. I used the cardboard applicator version of these and found them really comfortable. Now I'm working my way up to their non-applicator variety. Small steps!"

Originally published in FITNESS magazine, February 2011.