How easy is it to find tampons outside North America and Europe?

Do I need to bring all the tampons I need with me? I've heard you can't buy them outside Europe and North America but I can't believe I'd have to cart boxes around in my backpack.

Answer:

It depends. You'll usually find tampons in major cities, although in some countries even that is a stretch. Even when they are available, they can be quite expensive.

In many countries women use sanitary pads rather than tampons, which you can find pretty much everywhere. If you can stand it, get used to wearing these once in awhile.

Get the word 'tampon' translated and write down the word (or photocopy it) in the local language. At least you won't have to act it out at the drugstore and can just slide the piece of paper discreetly across the counter. And just so you know, the brand name Tampax is often more familiar than the generic word 'tampon'.

Once you do use a tampon, there's a disposal issue. Don't expect to find garbage cans on every street corner, and certainly not in every bathroom. You can't dispose of them in the toilet because most plumbing systems aren't as efficient as the ones you're used to. You don't want to block someone's toilet for weeks just because you had to throw out a used tampon!

For many women, the solution to tampons is a re-usable and washable menstrual cup. Have a look at the The Keeper or the Diva Cup.

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