[braidensmommy]

I'm 21 years old. I started my period in the 5th grade, way earlier than most girls. It was extremely hard to deal with then, and has not gotten any easier since. I've always used pads because of not feeling comfortable with tampons, but pads really make my life miserable; with all the messiness and uncomfortableness, its so bad it affects my every day life and puts a very bad strain on mine and my husbands relationship, I dont know how he puts up with me. I hate everything when I am on my period. I want to use tampons but every time I try its painful, and I know I'm putting them in right, I mean how hard can it be? I'm basically the biggest you know what this time of month too. I just want to be normal like most women, and be happy and not miserable. I want to feel clean, happy and confident while on my period. Not nasty, hateful, and completely not fun to be around. =[ HELP!

[LanaBear]

Have you experimented with different tampons? There are certain ones that I cannot wear, they are uncomfortable. You may feel like you are putting them in right, but if you are tense it can effect how it is placed. Try with light flow ones since they are smaller. Another thing you may want to try is a menstrual cup. I haven't tried them, but I've been tempted, everything I've heard about them has been good.

Are you on BC? Different types can effect your mood as well. Regardless, if you are feeling the way you do about your period, you should probably go in and talk to your gyne about it.

Welcome to the forum!

[braidensmommy]

No, I've not experimented yet but I will try bc I cant take pads anymore they are so aggravating. I'm not on bc but will be soon I hope, I have a 5 month old son & dont plan on anymore anytime soon. Thanks for the info! It helps alot.

[Mes T]

Your moods might really improve if you find the right birth control pill...! And you'll probably have lighter periods, too, so you won't have to deal with them as much or as often.

[Iseulda]

If tampons are uncomfortable you might want to try a 'menstrual cup'. It is a soft water proof cup that sits in the vagina similar to where a tampon sits but it is easier to adjust once in. The dry cotton of a tampon makes it rather difficult to adjust and can also cause more friction, making you feel it. The menstrual cup is smooth and doesn't have the same issues.

The way the cup works is the open end sits over your cervix and collects the menses - when you go to the bathroom, you take it out, empty it, rinse it and reinsert it.

There are two brands friends of mine use the 'moon cup' and the 'diva cup'. Both come highly recommended. I have yet to find anywhere near me that sells them but I'm planning to try a cup as soon as I can.

Just to give you a 3rd option.