Menstruation is a natural biological process, and tampons are a popular, discreet product used to manage menstrual flow. While the concept of internal protection can seem confusing at first, using a tampon correctly is a straightforward skill that improves with practice. Understanding the proper technique ensures the tampon is comfortable and effective, allowing you to move through your day without concern.
Selecting the Right Tampon and Preparation
Selecting the correct absorbency level is the first step toward comfortable and safe tampon use. Tampons are categorized by how much fluid they can absorb, with levels like “Light,” “Regular,” “Super,” and “Super Plus.” For those new to tampons, starting with a “Light” or “Regular” absorbency is often recommended because these tend to be smaller and easier to insert. Always use the lowest absorbency necessary for your flow, changing the tampon every four to eight hours.
Tampons typically come with an applicator made of plastic or cardboard, or they may be “digital” (applicator-free). Plastic applicators are often favored for their smooth surface, which can make insertion easier for beginners. Cardboard applicators are a more environmentally conscious choice, while applicator-free tampons offer a compact design. Before unwrapping any tampon, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water to prevent the introduction of bacteria.
Understanding Relevant Anatomy and Position
The vagina is the muscular canal where the tampon is placed, and understanding its orientation is key to successful insertion. The vaginal canal does not travel straight up into the body. Instead, it angles back toward the lower back or tailbone at roughly a 45-degree angle. Trying to insert the tampon straight up will likely cause resistance or discomfort.
Finding a relaxed body position helps the pelvic muscles loosen, making insertion much easier. Many people find comfort in sitting on the toilet with knees apart or standing with one foot elevated on a stable surface like the toilet seat or a tub edge. Squatting slightly is another effective position, as it naturally opens the vaginal entrance. If you feel tense, taking a few deep breaths can help relax the muscles surrounding the vaginal opening.
Step-by-Step Guide to Correct Insertion
Once unwrapped, hold the applicator firmly at the middle grip with your thumb and middle finger. This grip point is usually where the outer tube narrows or has a textured ring. Use your free hand to gently spread the labia (the folds of skin around the vaginal opening) to clearly identify the entrance. The vaginal opening is located between the urethra (above it) and the anus (below it).
Place the rounded tip of the applicator at the vaginal entrance, and begin to push it slowly inward. Remember the correct angle, aiming the tampon tip toward your lower back, not straight up. Continue to slide the outer tube into the vagina until your fingers holding the grip touch your body. This indicates the tampon is positioned deep enough in the canal, and the outer tube will have essentially disappeared inside.
Use your index finger to push the inner tube, or plunger, completely into the outer tube. This action releases the absorbent cotton core into the upper part of the vaginal canal. With the plunger fully pushed, hold the grip and gently slide the entire applicator out of your body. The tampon’s string should remain hanging outside for later removal.
If the tampon is inserted correctly, you should not be able to feel it at all while standing, walking, or sitting. If you feel any discomfort or a scraping sensation, the tampon is likely not inserted deeply enough or is at an incorrect angle. In this case, you can use a clean finger to gently nudge it further up, or remove it and try again with a fresh tampon.
How to Remove a Tampon and Troubleshooting
Tampons must be changed regularly, with a maximum wear time of eight hours to minimize the risk of infection, including Toxic Shock Syndrome. To remove the tampon, relax your pelvic muscles and gently pull the string at the same angle you used for insertion, which is toward your lower back. The tampon should slide out easily, especially if it is saturated with menstrual fluid.
If you experience pain upon insertion, the tampon may not be going in at the correct angle or may not be deep enough. If a tampon leaks quickly, it may signal that you need a higher absorbency level for your flow. Should the string disappear, do not panic, as the tampon cannot become lost inside the body cavity. Squatting or sitting on the toilet and bearing down gently, as if having a bowel movement, can help push the tampon down. You can then insert a clean finger to locate the string or the tampon itself and gently pull it out.