While soft tampons have many benefits for our well-being during menstruation, they have no contraceptive effect. Now many will think: "Contraception during the period? I can't get pregnant anyway, can I?"

Contraception during the period

Yes, it can actually happen that you get pregnant during your period. Sperm can survive in the female body for up to 5 days. With an average cycle of 28 days and bleeding lasting 5-7 days, this would not be a problem since ovulation takes place on the 14th day of the cycle, i.e. more than 5 days after the end of menstruation. Unfortunately, there are no average menstruators and most of us experience major deviations from such a cycle. Studies have shown that the vast majority of menstruators have cycles between 25 and 35 days, with more than 80% having monthly fluctuations. So, relying on not being able to get pregnant while on your period is more like a game of roulette.

Soft tampons and condoms

Therefore, there is no way around taking care of reliable contraception during the day, e.g. by using condoms. Of course, they also have another very important function: protection against sexually transmitted diseases. Condoms really have this function ahead of all other contraceptives and are particularly important if you don’t know your sexual partner that well – period or not. The good news: Soft tampons can be used very well together with condoms. So there are no more excuses, dear menstruators: practice safe sex – at any time of your cycle!

Soft tampons and spiral

By the way, we are always asked whether soft tampons are compatible with the hormone IUD, copper IUD, copper chain or copper bead ball (also called pessaries). Many fear that their contraceptives will be pulled out when removing the soft tampon. This fear is largely unfounded. If the IUD is properly seated, it is highly unlikely to be pulled out with a soft tampon. We had this confirmed by gynaecologists. We also did the self-experiment as a team and there are no problems using soft tampons and spirals at the same time.

Regardless of your period productsthere is always the possibility of spontaneous loss of a pessary, especially in the first few weeks after insertion. Therefore, gynecologists recommend not to use any period products that are inserted (menstrual cup or tampon) for the first 2 to 3 weeks afterwards.
It is of course important that you listen to your body. If you are unsure, we would always recommend that you consult your gynecologist again. But from our side there is a go!