Tampons giving me extreme irritation?

So I’ve been using Tampax pearl tampons for about 10 years. I’ve tried other brands like Kotex and playtex but I never like them and go back. But in the last few months every time I get my period I have extreme skin irritation and a strange smell. Two days after my period is over it’ll be gone but while I’m wearing the tampons the skin around it is fire engine red and I’ve even had bleeding while wiping. I absolutely hate pads and I will not use them. I’ve been strongly considering a diva cup but I just cannot wrap my head around how big they are. How are they not uncomfortable? If anyone has suggestions or advise please help a girl out. You’d think after this long I’d have periods down but my problematic skin is always getting in the way of everything. Thanks ladies!