How to insert a tampon?

Have you ever tried to ride a bicycle? You know how it’s intimidating at first, but slowly, with practice, you ease into it, and it becomes second nature! Well, using a tampon is just like riding a bicycle.

When you’re using it for the first time, you can get swamped reading all those instructions and warnings on the box. Carefully reading every direction is a good place to start. Still, it sure does get overwhelming for a first-time user. 

So, what must you do? That’s precisely what we’re here to help you with.

#1 – Size does matter

Tampons come in different sizes for different levels of absorbency. You must first choose the size of the tampon depending upon your flow. Each brand may name these sizes differently, but generally, they are grouped together as – 

- Regular – for normal flow

- Super – for heavy flow

- Spur plus or Ultra – for very heavy flow

These sizes indicate the amount of fluid each can hold. You may want to use a pantyliner or a pad for the first few days till you master using a tampon to ensure there’s no leakage. 

Using a super or super plus on your light days may cause dryness in your vagina and will also give you an unpleasant experience of using the tampon; therefore, choosing the right size is very important. 

#2 – Knowing your tampon

Now, before we get started, it’s crucial that we know the parts of the Tampon well. Tampons are the part which actually fits inside the vaginal canal. It is usually made of cotton or rayon. It Is compressed and expands as it starts to absorb the liquid. 

The string stays outside the vagina and is used to pull the tampon out for removal. 

Now some tampons come with an applicator. The applicator surrounds the tampon. It is made of the barrel, grip, and plunger. 

The plunger pushes the tampon outside of the applicator into the vagina. You hold onto the grip with your fingers and push the plunger with your other finger. 

#3 – Getting ready

Start by washing your hands thoroughly to avoid getting any germs into your vagina. 

Now you may be wondering if you will require a lubricant for the insertion. Well, generally, menstrual blood is enough to lubricate your vagina for tampon insertion. Still, if you’re having issues even with the smallest size of the tampon, you may need to use a lubricant. 

#4 - Finding the correct position

Next, you want to get into a comfortable position. Most women prefer to put one foot on the toilet seat while standing to insert a tampon, or squat or just simply sit on the toilet. 

Try out different ways and figure out which one works best for you. 

#5 – Inserting the tampon

Remove the outer protective covering of the tampon to reveal the actual tampon. For a tampon without an applicator, you will have to hold the tampon in your hands and twist in different directions to remove the packaging.  

Use a mirror to help you see clearly and find your vaginal opening. 

For tampons without an applicator – Hold the tampon in between your thumb and your middle finger. Place it onto the opening of your vagina. Now using your index finger, push the tampon in as far as possible, making sure that there is enough string outside for you to grab and pull the tampon out. 

Since the vagina is at an angle, push towards your back and not up towards your stomach.

For tampons with applicator – The process for tampons with the applicator is also similar. Hold the tampon from the grip and push the applicator tip inside till your fingers touch your labia, then, using the plunger, push the tampon in with your finger. Remove the applicator and throw it in the bin. 

Once the tampon is in correctly, you shouldn’t be able to feel it at all. If you haven’t inserted it correctly, it might feel uncomfortable. Use a clean finger to push the tampon farther up the vagina. It will settle into a more comfortable position after a while with movement and walking. 

#6 – Removing the tampon

Tampons should be changed every four to eight hours, depending on the flow. If you leave a tampon in for a very long time, you are at risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS). TSS is an extremely rare complication that results from certain toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria. The symptoms include fever, Rash, Low blood pressure, Kidney problems or failure, Respiratory problems or failure and Confusion. Staph is already present in the vagina, and when it gets optimal conditions to grow, it can lead to TSS. Therefore, you should not wear your tampon for longer than recommended. 

To remove your tampon, simply get into a comfortable position and gently pull on the string until it comes out. Wrap the tampon in a disposal bag or toilet paper and dispose off in the dustbin. Do not flush it as the toilets weren’t meant to handle tampons. 

Now you may insert a fresh tampon or switch to a pad. 

#7 – FAQs

Can it get lost inside?

No. The cervix, which is at the back of your vagina, stays closed so there is no way to lose a tampon in there. 

Can you sleep wearing a tampon?

Yes. However, make sure you don’t keep it in there for longer than 8 to 9 hours, as there is always the risk of TSS.

Will wearing a tampon hurt?

Ideally, it should not hurt. If you aren’t lubricated enough or are wearing the wrong tampon size for the flow, it may be a little uncomfortable. 

Getting used to wearing a tampon takes practice and patience. Once you acquaint yourself with the correct steps, you’ll be an expert in no time! 

 

 

By 

Nt. Heena Gupta