Tampon

A vaginal plug made of material that absorbs menstrual flow.

A wad of absorbent material put into a wound to soak up blood during an operation.

A cylindrical plug of soft material put into the vagina to absorb blood during menstruation.

Plug of cotton or sponge inserted into a body passage or cavity (e.g., the vagina or nose) to absorb exuded fluids, especially blood.

Small absorbent packing that is placed in the vagina to absorb blood during the menstrual period. Tampons have been used during menstruation since ancient Egypt, when they were made from papyrus (a plant used to make paper). Tampons today are made of absorbent cotton or rayon material and are cylindrical, with a string attached to one end for removal. They are available over the counter in different absorbencies to accommodate different levels of menstrual flow. Tampons should be removed when soaked with blood, or at least every 4 to 6 hours. Following these guidelines can reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome, a potentially severe bacterial infection associated with the prolonged use of highly absorbent tampons. The most highly absorbent tampons have been removed from the market. Tampons can be used by menstruating women of any age. Using a tampon does not affect a woman’s virginity, although women with intact hymens may need to use narrower designs to bypass the hymen comfortably.

A pack of gauze, cotton, or other absorbent material used to plug a cavity or canal in order to absorb blood or secretions. A vaginal tampon is commonly used by women to absorb the menstrual flow.

A plug of compressed gauze or cotton wool inserted into a wound or orifice to arrest bleeding. Also inserted into the vagina to absorb the flow of blood during menstruation. Retained, infected tampons may cause toxic shock syndrome, a potentially dangerous but fortunately uncommon reaction.

A roll or pack made of absorbent materials used to stop bleeding, absorb secretions, or obtain specimens from a wound or body cavity.