Final answer:
The absorption capacity of pads and tampons varies, with regular products absorbing 5 to 15 grams (about 10 mL) of menstrual fluid. For heavier flows, products can absorb up to 18 grams. Capillary filtration and reabsorption continue as usual throughout the menstrual cycle, despite the additional loss of menstrual fluid.
Step-by-step explanation:
How much blood a pad or tampon absorbs can vary greatly depending on the flow and the product's absorbency rating. Generally, pads and tampons come in various sizes and absorbencies, typically measured in grams.
A regular pad or tampon is designed to absorb around 5 to 15 grams of menstrual fluid, which averages out at about 10 mL since 1 gram is roughly equivalent to 1 mL of fluid.
For heavier flows, there are pads and tampons designed to absorb more, usually up to 18 grams. It's important to note that during a menstrual cycle, capillary filtration and reabsorption processes are ongoing. In one day, more fluid exits the capillary through filtration than enters through reabsorption.
Specifically, approximately 35 mm of blood are filtered and 7 mm are reabsorbed. The menstrual cycle does not significantly affect these physiological processes, as they continue to maintain the body's fluid balance.