tamponi

Tamponi is the plural of tampono in Italian and can refer to two main categories of products: tamponi igienici (tampons) used for menstrual hygiene, and tamponi di prelievo (swabs) used to collect biological samples for diagnostic tests.

Tamponi igienici are absorbent devices designed to be inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual fluid. They typically consist of an absorbent core made of cotton, rayon or blends, enclosed in an outer wrapper, and often paired with a cardboard or plastic applicator. They are available in different absorbencies to match flow level. Usage guidelines emphasize changing every few hours (commonly 4–8) and avoiding extended use to reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome. They should be disposed of in household waste after use and not flushed. Tampons come in various sizes and materials, and some people may prefer biodegradable or organic options.

Tamponi di prelievo are sterile, single-use swabs used to collect samples from areas such as the nose, throat or wounds for laboratory analysis. The swab tip is typically cotton or synthetic fiber, attached to a plastic or wooden shaft, and the whole item is packaged to remain sterile until use. After collection, the swab is placed in a transport medium and sent to a laboratory for testing; disposal follows medical waste protocols.

Etymology of tampono derives from the word tampon, used historically for a plug or pad. In Italian, both meanings—hygienic tampons and sampling swabs—are commonly referred to as tamponi.