Do Tampons Make Cramps Worse? It Depends

Menstrual cramps. If you’ve ever had them, you know they can range from mildly annoying to utterly debilitating. When cramps hit, it’s natural to question everything about your period routine, including your choice of menstrual products.

\And you’re not alone in wondering about it. In a recent survey of our Rescripted community, 29.9 percent said they use tampons, 39.9% use disposable pads or liners, 8.9% prefer menstrual cups, 11% reach for period underwear, 1.4% use reusable cloth pads, and 1.7% rely on a combination of products. With so many different approaches, it makes sense that comfort, cramping, and personal preference all play a role.

One common concern is whether tampons might make those monthly aches even worse. The answer? It’s complicated. Let’s unpack this together and see what science (and experience!) can tell us about the relationship between tampons and menstrual cramps.

Can tampons make your cramps worse? The short answer

If you’ve ever felt like your tampon is personally attacking your uterus, you’re not imagining things. Yes, tampons can make cramps worse for some people, although not everyone feels a change. Here’s where things get tricky. While some people notice that their cramps feel worse when they use tampons, others feel no difference or even experience relief.

So why the discrepancy? The truth is that every body is different, and the way tampons interact with your menstrual cycle depends on a variety of factors. The big three include an improper fit that puts pressure where it shouldn’t, the worry about toxic shock syndrome that can make you tense up, and the theory that tampons might slightly increase prostaglandin production, which is the hormone-like chemical responsible for triggering uterine contractions during your period.

According to guidance from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), prostaglandins are a key driver of period pain because they make the uterus contract more strongly during heavy flow. All of this sets the stage for the deeper dive sections that follow, but the short answer is simple: tampons can make cramps worse, but it depends entirely on your body and your cycle.

Why do tampons make cramps worse for some people?

Tampons can make cramps worse for some people because they change how the uterus and vaginal muscles respond during your period. Prostaglandins, the chemical messengers that cause your uterus to contract, are a big part of this. According to a 2020 review for the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, higher prostaglandin levels are linked to stronger and more painful contractions. When a tampon absorbs blood before it has a chance to flow out, some clinicians believe it may slow that natural release, which could keep prostaglandin levels higher and make cramps feel more intense.

If you feel like your cramps ramp up every time you use tampons, there are a few possible explanations:

• Prostaglandin build-up: When menstrual blood stays inside longer, prostaglandins may stay active for a bit longer too, which can increase cramping.
• Mechanical pressure: A tampon sits in the vaginal canal and can press against sensitive tissue or the cervix. This is more noticeable if you have a tilted uterus, a lower cervix, or a naturally narrow vaginal canal.
• Tension in the vaginal muscles: Inserting a tampon can cause your muscles to tighten, especially if it’s uncomfortable or if you’re anxious about insertion. Extra tension can make cramps feel sharper.
• Absorbency mismatch: Using a tampon that’s too absorbent for your actual flow can create unnecessary internal pressure, which may amplify discomfort.
• Sensitivity to materials: While uncommon, some people react to tampon fibers or manufacturing chemicals. This irritation can feel like increased cramping.
• Individual anatomy differences: Conditions like a retroverted uterus or tight pelvic floor muscles can make tampons feel more noticeable and contribute to pain.
• General prevalence: A small 2023 survey for Frontiers in Reproductive Health found that around 9% of menstruators experienced tampon-related discomfort, including worse cramps.

If tampons seem to make your period pain worse, you’re not imagining it. Your body might simply prefer a different menstrual product.

The prostaglandin connection

The prostaglandin connection is basically the heart of the tampon and cramp conversation. It helps to understand why cramps happen in the first place. Menstrual cramps, medically known as dysmenorrhea, are caused by contractions in the uterus that help shed its lining. These contractions are driven by prostaglandins, hormone-like chemicals that help trigger the process. The higher your prostaglandin levels, the stronger those contractions (and the cramps) tend to be. According to a 2023 review for the National Library of Medicine, people with higher prostaglandin concentrations experience more intense and frequent uterine contractions during menstruation, which is exactly what produces that deep, dragging pain.

So where do tampons come in? Some clinicians suggest that internal products may temporarily hold menstrual blood inside the vagina, which could slow the natural release of prostaglandin-rich fluid. This does not mean tampons increase prostaglandin production, but the theory is that keeping that fluid in contact with the cervix a little longer might prolong the cramping sensation for a subset of users. It’s a theory, not a proven mechanism, but it tracks with what some people notice in their own bodies.

Free-flow products like pads, period underwear, or even menstrual cups and discs behave differently. Pads and underwear allow blood to leave the body immediately, while cups and discs collect the blood without applying pressure to the vaginal canal. Because there’s no absorbent material inside the vagina, the flow is not interrupted in the same way, and some people find this reduces the intensity of their cramps.

This process is a normal part of menstruation, but for some, it can feel anything but normal. If you’ve ever been curled up with a heating pad and wondering why your uterus hates you, you’re not alone.

Can a tampon cause cramps even if you normally don't get them?

Yes, a tampon can cause cramps even if you usually sail through your period without pain. For some people, the uterus and pelvic floor are surprisingly sensitive to anything placed inside the vaginal canal, especially if the tampon is the wrong size or not positioned quite right. If a tampon sits too low, presses against the cervix, or expands more than your body is comfortable with, your pelvic floor muscles can tighten in response. That muscle tension can trigger crampy, achy sensations that feel very different from your usual cycle. Typically, discomfort from tampon use is often linked to insertion depth and absorbency mismatch rather than underlying menstrual issues.

There’s also the simple fact that bodies change over time. You can be a lifelong tampon user and then suddenly find that your vaginal tissues or pelvic floor are more reactive. Hormonal shifts, childbirth, stress, and even long periods of not using internal products can make you more sensitive to the feeling of something inside the vagina. Mild, temporary cramps when you first insert a tampon or when it becomes saturated are fairly common. But cramping that’s sharp, ongoing, or happens every single time you use a tampon is not something you have to power through. It may mean the tampon is the wrong size, not inserted high enough, or simply not the right product for your body. If switching sizes or trying a different brand doesn’t help, that’s a good time to talk with a clinician, especially if the pain feels new or out of character for your usual period.

Tampon infection: When cramps signal something more serious

Tampon-related cramps are usually harmless, but sometimes they can be your body waving a red flag. While true tampon infections are uncommon, they can happen, and knowing the difference between “this tampon feels weird” and “something is wrong” really matters. The most serious concern is toxic shock syndrome. According to a 2024 literature review for MDPI, TSS is very rare in menstruating people, but when it does occur, symptoms tend to come on fast and include sudden fever, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, rash, and severe muscle aches. This is very different from the dull, achy cramps you might feel from tampon pressure or placement. Infections like bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections can also be connected to tampon use, especially if the tampon stays in too long. These conditions can cause pelvic discomfort, but they more often show up as changes in discharge, itching, odor, or burning rather than classic period cramps.

If you’re trying to figure out whether your cramps signal something more serious, pay attention to how the pain behaves. Typical tampon discomfort improves once you remove or reposition the tampon. Infection-related pain tends to stick around, feel sharper, or escalate over a few hours.

Clear signs to call a clinician include fever, intense pelvic pain, foul-smelling discharge, rash, vomiting, or feeling faint. These aren’t normal period symptoms, and they shouldn’t be ignored. To reduce your risk of infection, wash your hands before inserting a tampon, change it every four to eight hours, and avoid using super-absorbent sizes unless your flow truly requires it.

As for organic versus conventional tampons, research hasn’t shown that organic products prevent infections, but some people do find them more comfortable or less irritating. If cramps persist even after switching products or improving your hygiene routine, that’s your cue to get checked out. You're not overreacting for wanting answers.

Why does it hurt when I wear a tampon?

If it hurts when you wear a tampon, that’s your body telling you something isn’t lining up quite right. A tampon that’s inserted comfortably shouldn’t hurt at all, so pain is a sign that the size, placement, or timing isn’t working for you. One of the most common reasons is using a tampon that’s too big for your flow. On lighter days, there’s not enough natural lubrication, which means the tampon can drag against the vaginal walls and feel scratchy or sharp.

Discomfort also happens when a tampon isn’t inserted high enough, so it sits near the vaginal opening instead of resting comfortably in the upper vaginal canal. Vaginal dryness can make tampon insertion more painful, especially during light-flow days or hormonal changes like postpartum, perimenopause, or certain contraceptives.

Pain can also come from conditions that make the vaginal or pelvic floor muscles more sensitive. Vaginismus, pelvic floor tension, or post-infection sensitivity can make tampon insertion feel impossible or painful, and it’s not in your head. Anxiety plays a role, too. If you tense up while inserting a tampon, your muscles contract around it, which makes everything feel tighter and more uncomfortable. Some people are simply more prone to discomfort because of natural anatomy differences.

A few troubleshooting tips can make a big difference. Try a smaller size, especially on lighter days. Make sure the tampon is inserted all the way in until you no longer feel it. A tiny amount of water-based lubricant on the tip of the applicator can help when dryness is the issue. If insertion still hurts every time, or if you’ve always struggled with tampons despite correct placement, that’s worth mentioning to a clinician. Pelvic floor tightness, hormonal dryness, or conditions like vaginismus are common and treatable, and you deserve to use whatever period products feel comfortable and safe for your body.

Pain when putting in a tampon or taking it out

Pain when putting in or taking out a tampon usually comes down to dryness, tension, or placement. Insertion can hurt if your flow is light, your muscles are tight, or the tampon isn’t angled toward the small of your back. Removal can be just as uncomfortable if the tampon is too dry to slide out easily or if you pull it out quickly instead of easing it out. Trying a smaller absorbency, adding a little water-based lubricant to the applicator tip, or inserting and removing in a squatting or one-leg-up position can help your muscles relax. If the pain is sharp, happens every cycle, or continues even with proper technique, that’s a good reason to check in with a clinician, since conditions like pelvic floor dysfunction or vaginal dryness can make tampon use more painful than it should be.

Are pads or tampons better for cramps?

Pads and tampons aren’t “better” or “worse” for cramps across the board, but pads can feel more comfortable for some people because they don’t add any internal pressure while your uterus is already contracting. When cramps are intense, the absence of something inside the vaginal canal can make pads feel gentler, especially during heavy flow. The trade-off is that pads can feel bulky, lead to chafing, or cause more leaking anxiety if you’re moving around a lot.

Tampons are convenient and discreet, but the internal placement can make cramps feel sharper for some users. There’s no medically proven winner. It really comes down to what feels best in your body on that particular day, and it’s completely normal to switch between products depending on how your cramps behave.

Do menstrual cups or disks make cramps worse?

Yes, menstrual cups and disks can make cramps worse for some people, but the experience varies just as much as it does with tampons. Cups can sit close to the cervix and create gentle suction to stay in place, and if that suction is too strong or the cup is too firm, it can trigger uterine or pelvic floor cramping. According to a 2025 study in the BMJ, most users tolerate cups well, but a notable minority report discomfort related to fit or placement. There’s also a learning curve. The wrong size, the wrong fold, or a cup positioned too high can all make your uterus feel like it’s protesting.

Disks, which rest in the vaginal fornix rather than creating suction, tend to cause fewer cervix-related cramps and can be a better option for people with a low cervix or who are sensitive to pressure. At the same time, plenty of people actually find cups reduce cramping, likely because they allow a free-flowing release without the absorbent pressure of tampons. If you’re dealing with menstrual cup cramps, troubleshooting usually helps: try a softer cup, a smaller diameter, breaking the seal fully during insertion and removal, or switching to a disk. Your comfort level is the deciding factor, not the product itself.

What makes menstrual cramps worse? (Beyond your period product)

Several things can make menstrual cramps worse that have nothing to do with the period product you use. Cramps are influenced by hormones, inflammation, and how your whole body is functioning during your cycle. According to a 2023 study for the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, stress, dehydration, and underlying gynecologic conditions can all intensify dysmenorrhea, which is why some months feel so much harder than others. Here are some of the biggest contributors:

• Stress and anxiety: High stress increases cortisol, which can make your nervous system more sensitive to pain, according to a 2014 study for the Journal of the American Physical Therapy Association. Tense pelvic floor muscles can also amplify cramping and make internal products feel less comfortable.
• A diet high in inflammatory foods: Alcohol, caffeine, and highly processed foods can promote inflammation. A 2023 study for MDPI found that diets lower in inflammatory ingredients were linked to milder menstrual pain.
• Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can cause bloating and muscle tension, both of which make cramps feel sharper.
• Lack of movement: Gentle exercise increases blood flow and releases endorphins, your body’s natural pain relievers. Staying still for long periods can make cramps feel more intense.
• Hormonal fluctuations: Sudden shifts in estrogen and progesterone can change prostaglandin levels, which directly affect the strength of uterine contractions.
• Underlying conditions: Endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids, and sometimes PCOS can all cause stronger or more persistent cramping. These conditions often come with additional symptoms like heavy bleeding or pain between periods.

Addressing some of these factors can make your overall cycle more manageable and may even make tampon or cup use feel more comfortable, because your pelvic floor and uterus are less reactive when inflammation and stress are lower.

Do tampons help with cramps? The alternative perspective

Yes, tampons can actually help with cramps for some people, even though that might feel like the opposite of what you usually hear. There’s no strong scientific data proving tampons relieve menstrual pain, but plenty of users report feeling better with one in, and personal experience matters. On the flip side, many people find tampons provide a surprising amount of relief. Here’s why:

• Psychological comfort: Tampons offer a sense of cleanliness and freedom, especially if you’re active. Feeling confident that you won’t leak can ease stress and, in turn, help reduce your overall perception of pain. Since stress heightens pain sensitivity, lowering anxiety can make cramps feel more manageable.
• Gentle pressure relief: Some users report that the light pressure of a properly inserted tampon can provide subtle relief, similar to how applying pressure to your abdomen can soothe cramping. While this “counter-pressure” theory isn’t proven in research, it’s a widely shared experience.
• “Barely there” sensation: When a tampon is inserted correctly and matches your flow, many people say it feels invisible. That lack of sensation can be comforting during a painful period, especially compared to the bulkiness or movement of pads.
• Body familiarity: For people who have used tampons for years, sticking with a familiar product can feel grounding during a tough cycle. Comfort and routine can absolutely shape how your body processes pain.

Even though we don’t have large studies confirming tampons relieve cramps, these experiences are valid. If your body feels better with a tampon than without, that alone is a good enough reason to use what works for you.

Finding what works for your body

If you’re using tampons, there are a few tips to help make them as comfortable as possible:

• Choose the right absorbency: Always use the lowest absorbency necessary for your flow. A tampon that’s too large can cause discomfort and unnecessary pressure.
• Master the insertion: A tampon should sit high enough in the vagina that you don’t feel it at all. If you feel discomfort or notice it shifting, it might not be inserted correctly. Try adjusting your angle or position to make insertion easier.
• Stick to the 4-8 hour rule: Regularly changing your tampon not only prevents leaks but also reduces the risk of issues like Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), a rare but serious condition.

And if tampons don’t work for you, or you suspect they’re making your cramps worse, you have plenty of other options.

• Pads: A tried-and-true option, pads offer external protection without inserting anything into the body.
• Menstrual cups: These reusable, silicone cups collect blood instead of absorbing it. Some users say cups reduce cramping because they don’t dry out the vaginal walls the way tampons can.
• Menstrual discs: Discs sit higher in the vaginal canal and don’t rely on suction the way cups do. This makes them a great option for people with a low cervix or those who find cups too firm or pressure-heavy.
• Period underwear: Comfortable and low-maintenance, these are a great choice for lighter flows or as backup to another method.
• Reusable cloth pads: Softer than many disposable pads and free of fragrances or plastics. They’re gentle on sensitive skin and can feel less bulky than some disposable options.
• Free bleeding (with liners or nothing at all): Some people find that letting blood flow naturally, especially at home, reduces cramping and pelvic floor tension. Even a simple cotton liner can make this feel manageable.
• Low-absorbency tampons or applicator-free options: If tampons only bother you sometimes, switching to a smaller size, a smoother applicator, or a non-applicator tampon may help reduce discomfort.

The key is to experiment and figure out what makes you feel the most comfortable and confident.

When to see a doctor about tampon pain or cramps

While mild to moderate cramps are considered a normal part of menstruation, pain that’s severe or disrupts your daily life isn’t something you should just “tough out.” If your cramps are intense, regardless of whether you use tampons, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider, as conditions like endometriosis, adenomyosis, or uterine fibroids may be causing the pain and could require treatment.

So, do tampons make cramps worse? It really depends on the individual. For some, tampons might amplify discomfort, while for others, they’re a lifesaver (or simply a non-issue). The key is to listen to your body and prioritize your comfort. Periods are a natural part of life, and managing them comfortably is essential. Whether you prefer tampons, pads, cups, or period underwear, the best choice is the one that empowers you to move through your day with ease and confidence.

Don’t be afraid to experiment, adjust, and advocate for your needs, because you know your body best, and you deserve to feel your best.