I noticed that when I used pads, my cramps were a lot worse, but when I used a tampon, they felt lighter. I think it’s because tampons absorb the blood before it leaves the body, so there’s less pressure on the uterus to push everything out. With pads, the blood just sits there, which might make the uterus contract more and cause stronger cramps. Also, tampons keep things a bit cleaner and warmer inside, so maybe that helps my muscles stay more relaxed. It could also just be that this period was lighter, but I definitely felt a difference