A tampon is a compressed, absorbent material designed to be inserted into the vaginal canal to collect menstrual flow internally. The applicator serves as a hygienic delivery system, a tube-within-a-tube mechanism, that facilitates a smooth and controlled placement of the absorbent core. The applicator is specifically engineered to simplify insertion and guide the tampon past the vaginal opening. Understanding the mechanics of the applicator helps overcome initial nervousness and builds confidence in using this form of menstrual protection.
Preparing for Insertion
Before beginning, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water to ensure they are clean. Finding a comfortable and relaxed position is beneficial because the pelvic floor muscles will involuntarily tighten if you are tense. Many people find it easiest to sit on the toilet with knees spread apart or to stand with one foot raised on a stable surface. Once positioned, take a few slow, deep breaths to consciously relax your body, which helps the vaginal muscles loosen and makes insertion significantly easier.
Detailed Applicator Insertion Steps
Hold the applicator at the middle portion of the outer tube, often called the grip, using your thumb and middle finger. This outer tube contains the tampon and is connected to the thinner inner tube used for deployment. Locate the vaginal opening, positioned between the urethra and the anus, and gently guide the rounded tip of the applicator toward it. The vagina angles back toward the lower spine, so aim the applicator in this direction, not straight upward.
Slowly slide the outer tube into the vaginal opening at this angle, continuing until your fingers holding the grip touch your body. The outer tube is now fully inserted, and only the inner tube should be exposed. To release the tampon, use your index finger to push the inner tube completely into the outer tube. This action pushes the absorbent core into the correct position within the vaginal canal.
Push the inner tube all the way until it is flush with the outer tube to ensure the tampon is fully deployed. Gently grasp the outer tube and slide the entire applicator assembly out of your body. The used applicator should be wrapped and disposed of in the trash, not flushed. The withdrawal string should remain outside your body, hanging freely for later removal.
Checking for Correct Placement
The primary indicator of correct placement is the complete absence of sensation; if positioned correctly, you should not be able to feel it at all. The upper two-thirds of the vaginal canal has few nerve endings, which is why a properly inserted tampon is unnoticeable during wear. If you feel internal pressure, discomfort, or the tampon feels like it is “sticking out,” it indicates that it has not been pushed far enough into the canal.
This discomfort means the tampon is likely too close to the sensitive lower third of the vagina. If repositioning with a clean finger does not resolve the issue, gently remove the tampon by pulling the withdrawal string and try again with a fresh one. A new tampon allows you to repeat the insertion process, ensuring it rests high enough to be completely comfortable.