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Frequently Asked Questions

Tampons

Liners

TSS

    Tampons

    • How do I know which tampons are suitable for me?

      Every woman is different, so this is a very individual choice depending on your menstrual cycle, heavy or light menstrual flow and body size.

      If you are just starting out as a tampon user, we recommend starting with CAREFREE® SLIMS™ tampons, which are slimmer and easier to use with a SILK-EASE® cover. Alternatively, if you experience heavy flow then CAREFREE® FLEXIA® tampons offer our most advanced protection against leakage, with unique SOFTFOLDS® wings which catch the fluid other tampons may miss.

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    • What is the difference between CAREFREE® SLIMS™ tampons, CAREFREE® standard tampons and CAREFREE® FLEXIA® tampons?

      CAREFREE® SLIMS™ tampons still protect big but are narrower in width than CAREFREE® standard tampons, and have a SILK-EASE® cover which makes them easier to insert & remove. CAREFREE® FLEXIA® tampons have SOFTFOLDS® wings which catch fluid other tampons may miss, and are suitable for greater protection against leakage.

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    • What is so special about the curved grooves on CAREFREE® tampons?

      The curved grooves on CAREFREE® SLIMS™ tampons and standard tampons are specially developed to direct fluid more efficiently inside the tampon. Curved grooves help stop the downward gush of fluid so that it can be absorbed by the tampon core better, giving you the protection you need.

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    • What is so special about the SILK-EASE® cover on CAREFREE® SLIMS™ tampons

      CAREFREE® SLIMS™ tampons have a unique SILK-EASE® cover making them so silky smooth to insert & remove. Unlike other tampons, the SILK-EASE® cover is made from a film polymer cover that has a significantly smoother surface than normal non-woven covers. The SILK-EASE® cover wraps around the tampon & is sealed onto the tampon’s absorbent fiber surface thereby aiding insertion and removal and helping to prevent fluffiness.

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    • What makes CAREFREE® FLEXIA® tampons unique

      CAREFREE® FLEXIA® tampons are the next generation of tampons that offer our most advanced protection against leakage. They are the first and only tampons designed with 4 unique SOFTFOLDS® flexible wings that catch fluid other tampons may miss. (For more detail see question 6: How do the SOFTFOLDS® wings on CAREFREE® FLEXIA® tampons work?)

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    • How do the SOFTFOLDS® wings on CAREFREE® FLEXIA® tampons work

      SOFTFOLDS® wings which are made of flexible, soft material that moulds itself to the natural curves of the female body. Depending on the position of the tampon in the vagina, these wings are able to unfold to mould to the form of the vagina and catch fluid better. The wings then draw the fluid into the core of the tampon to protect you against leaks.

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    • Can I swim while using a tampon?

      Yes, tampons are suitable for swimming whilst you have your period.

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    • Do CAREFREE® tampons have an expiry date?

      CAREFREE® tampons do not have an expiry date. CAREFREE® tampons should last for a long time if stored in a dry environment.

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    • Can I flush tampons down the toilet?

      Like most sanitary products, CAREFREE® tampons cannot be flushed down the toilet. Please dispose of them responsibly in the rubbish bin or appropriate sanitary bins.

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    • Are tampons suitable for virgins to use?

      Most girls, once they start menstruating, can wear tampons. The hymen is elastic and stretches so you can't do damage to it by using a tampon.

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    • How do I insert a tampon?

      1. Wash your hands before and after using a tampon. Remove the wrapper and untie the string. Hold the tampon at the string end and get into a comfortable position. Try sitting on the toilet or standing with one leg up to insert the tampon.
      2. Once you’re in a comfortable position, breathe out slowly and relax. Hold the tampon at the string end and, with your free hand, spread open the folds of skin at the vaginal opening.
      3. Gently slide the tampon in, slanting it towards your lower back. If you feel some resistance, simply change the direction a bit or rotate it gently.
      4. Gently push your finger up as far as possible into the vagina, this will place the tampon in the central part of the vagina with the string outside your body. You know the tampon has been inserted correctly when you cannot feel it at all.
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    • Can I use a tampon when I don’t have my period?

      Tampons are designed for menstrual flow and should not be used at other times.

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    • What precautions should I take whilst using tampons?

      • Take special care of personal hygiene during your period ensuring you bathe daily.
      • Wash your hands before, as well as, after inserting a tampon.
      • Unwrap a fresh clean tampon just before insertion – do not handle it more than is necessary.
      • Do not insert a tampon if it hurts to do so.
      • Discard any tampon you have unwrapped and not used immediately.
      • Do not use tampons continuously, it is preferable to alternate your tampon use with some form of external protection.
      • Tampons should be changed 3-6 times a day, depending on flow. You should leave your tampon in for no more than eight (8) hours.
      • Ask a doctor if it is okay to use tampons if you have recently given birth, had a caesarean section, a miscarriage, an abortion or any operation on your reproductive system.
      • Only use a tampon when you are menstruating.
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    Liners

    • What is the difference between a Breathable and Original liner?

      Breathable liners have a breathable backing which allows air to circulate, for a fresher feeling and greater comfort.

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    • What is the difference between CAREFREE® BARELY THERE® liners and Original CAREFREE® liners?

      Original CAREFREE® liners have a moisture-proof backsheet and provide more protection than CAREFREE® BARELY THERE® liners. Original CAREFREE® liners are suitable for the days around your period, and for heavy discharge.

      CAREFREE® BARELY THERE® liners are thinner and more flexible, designed for everyday use on the days in-between your period. CAREFREE® BARELY THERE® liners are suitable for light discharge to keep your undies feeling fresh and clean.

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    • What is unique about CAREFREE® ACTI-FRESH® liners?

      CAREFREE® ACTI-FRESH® liners are designed to draw sweat, moisture and odour away from the body to help keep you fresh and dry. CAREFREE® ACTI-FRESH® liners have a unique absorbent cover and Micro-Airflow holes which allow moisture to evaporate quickly.

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    • Can I use liners for heavy discharge?

      Original CAREFREE® liners are suitable for heavy discharge.

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    • Are liners suitable for periods?

      Liners are designed for the days in-between your period. Some variants like CAREFREE® original liners may be absorbent enough to act as a tampon back-up, although CAREFREE® tampons or STAYFREE® sanitary napkins and pads are more suitable for periods.

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    • Are liners absorbent?

      Liners have light absorbency and are specially designed to absorb moisture on days before or after your period. Some variants (like CAREFREE® original liners), are also absorbent enough to act as tampon back-up or for use instead of pads on very light period days. Check your pack for the right absorbency and use.

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    • What is the difference between a normal length and long liner?

      CAREFREE® long liners are 20% longer than standard liners for better coverage and protection than standard liners. They are also the most absorbent of all CAREFREE® liners, and suitable for heavy discharge, spotting, or light bladder weakness to keep your undies feeling fresh and dry.

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    • Do liners have a fragrance?

      Fragranced CAREFREE® liners include the CAREFREE® ACTI-FRESH® liner range, and Original & CAREFREE® BARELY THERE® liners with ALOE™ or Shower Fresh scent.

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    • Are liners flushable?

      Like most sanitary products, CAREFREE® liners cannot be flushed down the toilet. Please dispose of them responsibly in the rubbish bin or appropriate sanitary bins.

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    TSS

    • What is TSS?

      TSS is a rare but serious illness which can occur in both males and females (but more common in young women in association with menstruation and tampon use). Current information indicates that TSS is a toxaemia (toxins circulating in the blood) caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. These bacteria are found in the nose of about one-third of the population. They may also be found on the skin, and occasionally in the vagina, without causing harm. Most people develop resistance to the toxin (which is why the illness is rare) and in these people there is no harmful effect. A person who is not resistant to the toxin may however become ill.

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    • Do tampons cause TSS?

      Tampons may play a contributory role but do not cause TSS. Tampons, while containing very small amounts of bacteria normally present in the air, have not been shown to carry the bacteria which cause Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). Personal hygiene is crucial. Always ensure you wash your hands before and after inserting a tampon.

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    • Do higher absorbency tampons cause TSS?

      Scientific studies have indicated that higher absorbency tampons have been associated with an increased risk of TSS. You should use the lowest absorbency tampons for your comfort and level of blood flow. Although TSS can occur with tampons of any absorbency, the risk increases with tampons of higher absorbency.

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    • What are the chances of contracting TSS?

      TSS is a very rare illness - at the height of publicity in the USA, reported cases were only occurring in approximately 15 out of every 100,000 women of menstrual age each year. The incidence has since declined and, in Australia, there have been fewer than 25 cases of TSS since January 1981.

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    • What are the warning signs of TSS?

      The early symptoms of TSS may begin suddenly and are similar to the ‘flu’. Remember, early recognition of these symptoms and treatment are very important.

      • Feeling very ill, headache, muscular pains
      • High fever and chills, usually 39 C (102 F) or higher.
      • Vomiting, diarrhoea, or both.
      • Fainting, dizziness, weakness or confusion.
      • Sunburn like rash.

      These symptoms may appear during your period or soon after. If symptoms appear, REMOVE YOUR TAMPON IF IN USE AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY. Remember it is very important to tell the doctor that you have been using tampons. As TSS may cause death, early detection and treatment is essential.

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    If your question has not been covered on this page, please click here to contact our Consumer Service team who will assist with your query.