Tampons are menstrual hygiene products designed to absorb blood internally, offering a discreet and comfortable option for managing menstrual flow. Made from absorbent materials like cotton or rayon, they are inserted into the vaginal canal. Proper placement allows individuals to engage in activities like exercise and swimming without concern for leakage.
Getting Ready for Tampon Use
Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water before insertion to minimize bacteria introduction into the vagina. This hygiene step helps reduce the risk of potential infections.
Select the appropriate tampon absorbency for your menstrual flow. Tampons come in various levels (light, regular, super, super plus) to accommodate different volumes. Using the lowest absorbency needed is recommended, as higher absorbencies may cause dryness or discomfort. If a tampon saturates quickly, a higher absorbency might be suitable; if there’s significant white space after 4-8 hours, a lower absorbency is better.
Tampons come with or without an applicator. Applicator tampons, made of plastic or cardboard, assist with insertion. Non-applicator tampons are inserted directly using a finger. Many find plastic applicators smoother, while non-applicator tampons offer more control and are more environmentally friendly due to less waste.
Finding a relaxed and comfortable position eases insertion. Common positions include sitting on the toilet with knees apart, standing with one foot elevated, or squatting. Taking deep breaths and relaxing pelvic muscles can help, as tension makes insertion more difficult.
Ensuring Proper Tampon Placement
Proper tampon placement means it is seated high in the vaginal canal, beyond the initial opening. When correctly inserted, you should not feel the tampon. If you can feel it or it causes discomfort, it is likely not inserted far enough. The vagina naturally curves towards the lower back, so aiming the tampon in this direction, rather than straight up, facilitates smoother and more comfortable insertion.
For tampons with an applicator, hold the applicator at the grip, usually where the inner and outer tubes meet. Gently insert the tip into the vaginal opening, pointing it towards your lower back. Continue to push the applicator into the vagina until your fingers on the grip reach the entrance. Once fully inserted, use your index finger to push the plunger completely into the outer tube, releasing the tampon. Gently remove the applicator, leaving the string hanging outside the body.
When using a non-applicator tampon, unwrap it and ensure the string is securely attached. Some non-applicator tampons have a small indentation or pocket at the base for your index finger. Hold the tampon with your thumb and middle finger, then use your index finger to guide it into the vaginal opening, aiming towards your lower back. Gently push the tampon inward with your index finger until your finger is fully inserted, or nearly so, ensuring it is deep enough and no longer felt.
Not feeling the tampon indicates it has bypassed the sensitive lower vaginal canal and is correctly positioned in the less sensitive upper area. This deep insertion is important for comfort and effective absorption without leaking. If you experience discomfort or feel the tampon after insertion, try pushing it slightly further with a clean finger, or remove it and try again with a new one.
Addressing Insertion Challenges
If tampon insertion feels painful or difficult, several factors could be at play. Vaginal dryness, especially during lighter flow days, can increase friction and discomfort. In such cases, try a smaller absorbency tampon or use a water-based lubricant on the tampon or applicator. Anxiety and muscle tension can also hinder insertion, so focus on relaxation and deep breathing exercises before and during the process.
If the tampon feels uncomfortable or is still felt when moving, it is often a sign it is not inserted far enough into the vaginal canal. The tampon should be positioned high enough to avoid the vaginal opening’s sensitive nerves. Gently using a clean finger to push the tampon further up can resolve this discomfort. If discomfort persists, remove the tampon and attempt insertion with a new one, perhaps trying a different angle or position.
In rare instances, conditions like vaginismus (involuntary muscle spasms around the vaginal opening) or other pelvic floor conditions can cause significant pain during insertion. Persistent pain or difficulty with tampon use warrants consultation with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
For removal, the tampon string should remain accessible outside the body. If the string is difficult to locate, remain calm. A tampon cannot become lost inside the body; the cervix acts as a barrier preventing it from moving into the uterus. The vagina is typically 7 to 13 cm long, and the tampon will remain within this space. Squatting or bearing down can help bring the tampon closer to the vaginal opening. Use clean fingers to gently feel for the string or the tampon itself to retrieve it.