It’s been 90 years since Tampax introduced the first modern tampon, and the design has barely changed. But the feminine hygiene industry is set to get its biggest shakeup since the launch of the menstrual cup with the US’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approving a new design. Patented by independent startup Sequel, the product uses a spiral design that is said to absorb more and leak less than what’s on offer today. Those of a particular vintage might remember reports of women contracting the rare but potentially deadly toxic shock syndrome after using super-absorbent tampons that were popular in the 70s and 80s. But Sequel says their design doesn’t change the product’s actual absorbency, and the FDA’s approval means they’ll be available to buy in the US later this year.