Tampon Sizes Explained: Regular, Super, Super Plus — How to Choose the Right Absorbency

Choosing the right tampon size is one of the most important steps toward a comfortable and safe period.
Yet many women still ask:

“What’s the difference between Regular, Super, and Super Plus tampons?”
“Which tampon size is best for my flow?”
“Can using the wrong size cause leakage or discomfort?”

As a professional tampon manufacturer, we understand how tampon absorbency levels are designed and tested. This guide breaks down everything you need to know.

1. Understanding Tampon Absorbency Levels

Tampon sizes are based on absorbency, not physical length.

Most global brands follow similar categories:

• Light (6g or less)

For very light flow or spotting.

• Regular (6–9g)

Best for light to medium flow (most common).

• Super (9–12g)

Best for medium to heavy flow.

• Super Plus (12–15g)

For heavy flow or overnight use.

• Ultra (15–18g)

(Not common in all markets; used for extremely heavy flow.)

Absorbency standards often follow regulatory guidelines such as:

  • FDA (U.S.)
  • EDANA (Europe)
  • ISO testing methods

2. How to Choose the Right Tampon Size for Your Flow

Flow Level → Recommended Size

  • Light Flow: Light or Regular
  • Medium Flow: Regular or Super
  • Heavy Flow: Super or Super Plus
  • Very Heavy Flow: Super Plus or Ultra

General Rules

✔ Use the lowest absorbency that controls your flow
✔ Change every 4–8 hours
✔ Use higher absorbency only when necessary
✔ Switch sizes throughout your cycle (normal for most women)

Using a tampon that is too absorbent for your flow may cause dryness or discomfort.
Using one that is too small for your flow may cause leakage.

3. Why Tampon Size Matters

Choosing the right tampon size affects:

• Comfort

Larger absorbency = more compressed fibers = firmer feel.

• Safety

Using super sizes when not needed increases dryness and may slightly increase TSS risk.

• Leakage Protection

Higher absorbency holds more fluid for longer wear.

• Cost Efficiency

Using the correct size reduces waste.

4. Tampon Sizes and Applicator Types

Different sizes may come with different applicators:

1. Plastic Applicator Tampons

  • Smooth insertion
  • Popular in Western markets
  • Available in Regular, Super, Super Plus

2. Cardboard Applicator Tampons

  • Eco-friendly
  • Stable and cost-effective
  • Common in Regular & Super

3. Compact / Travel Tampons

  • Pocket-size
  • Expandable applicator
  • Usually in Regular or Super

4. Digital (Non-Applicator) Tampons

  • Smallest and most discreet
  • Common in Europe
  • Available in all absorbency levels

As a tampon manufacturer, we customize each type based on brand requirements (OEM/ODM).

5. How Tampon Absorbency Is Tested (Manufacturer Insight)

Tampon manufacturers perform strict absorbency testing:

✔ Weighing tampons before & after simulated fluid testing

✔ Expansion shape assessment

✔ Fiber distribution testing

✔ Leak-channel efficiency

✔ Applicator smoothness & insertion force

These tests ensure:

  • Safety
  • Comfort
  • Reliability
  • Performance

Different absorbency levels require different compression and fiber density.

6. Signs Your Tampon Size Is Not Right

You may need a larger size if:

  • Leakage happens within 2–3 hours
  • You feel a heavy flow on certain days
  • You need overnight protection

You may need a smaller size if:

  • Removal feels dry or painful
  • Insertion feels uncomfortable
  • You see little or no blood when removing
  • You reach 8 hours and the tampon is still light

7. Best Tampon Size for Beginners

For new users:

⭐ Start with Regular (6–9g)

It’s the most comfortable balance of size and absorbency.

If needed, move to Light or Super as you learn your flow.

8. Looking for a Reliable Tampon Manufacturer?

If you are launching a tampon brand or exploring private label opportunities, choosing the right tampon manufacturer is key.

We provide:

✔ Organic cotton tampons

✔ Regular / Super / Super Plus absorbency

✔ Plastic & cardboard applicators

✔ Compact travel tampons

✔ Digital (non-applicator) tampons

✔ Custom packaging & branding

✔ OEM / ODM private label service

✔ Biodegradable menstrual products

✔ Sanitary pads & pantyliners manufacturing

Our factory follows strict international standards:

  • ISO 13485
  • FDA registered
  • CE certified
  • Microbiological testing
  • Cleanroom production

👉 Contact us to get samples, product catalogs, and customized quotations.