A tampon is a menstrual product made of absorbent material, typically cotton or rayon, designed to be inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual fluid. Cardboard applicators facilitate hygienic insertion of the compressed cotton core. This rigid, biodegradable material distinguishes it from plastic versions, making it a popular choice for those seeking a lower environmental footprint. The applicator consists of an outer tube, which holds the tampon, and an inner tube, or plunger, used to push the tampon into position.
Preparing the Applicator and Finding the Right Position
Before beginning, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent the transfer of bacteria. Carefully unwrap the tampon, taking care not to touch the insertion tip or the inner tube (plunger). Check that the withdrawal string is secured and hanging freely from the bottom of the plunger tube.
Some cardboard applicators have a locking mechanism that needs to be twisted or pulled slightly to ensure the inner tube moves smoothly before use. Finding a relaxed position is crucial for comfortable insertion, as tensing the pelvic floor muscles can make the process difficult. Many people find success by sitting on the toilet with knees apart or standing with feet shoulder-width apart. Another option is propping one leg up on a steady surface like the edge of a tub or toilet seat.
Step-by-Step Insertion Mechanics
Once in position, hold the applicator firmly at the ridged grip area where the outer tube narrows near the middle. Gently place the rounded tip of the outer tube at the entrance of the vagina. Angle the applicator slightly backward toward your lower back, rather than straight up, to follow the natural curve of the vaginal canal.
Slide the outer tube into the vaginal opening until your fingers holding the grip area reach the skin of your body. Use your index finger to push the inner tube (plunger) completely into the outer tube. This action pushes the compressed cotton tampon out of the cardboard casing and into the correct position.
Push the plunger all the way through to ensure the tampon is fully released from the applicator. Cardboard applicators may require a more deliberate and steady push than plastic ones. After the plunger is fully pushed in, gently withdraw both the inner and outer applicator tubes together. If the tampon is correctly inserted, you should not be able to feel it inside you, and the withdrawal string should hang outside the body.
Proper Removal, Disposal, and Safety Guidelines
When it is time to remove the tampon, pull gently but steadily on the withdrawal string to slide the saturated cotton core out of the vagina. The used tampon should always be wrapped in toilet paper and disposed of in a waste receptacle. Never flush tampons down the toilet, as they can cause plumbing blockages. The used cardboard applicator should also be discarded in the trash, as it is considered sanitary waste and cannot be recycled once soiled.
For health considerations, a single tampon should not be worn for longer than eight hours at a time. Experts suggest changing every four to six hours, depending on the heaviness of the flow. Wearing a tampon for an extended period increases the risk of infection. It is also important to use the lowest absorbency necessary for your flow, as using a highly absorbent tampon when not needed can dry the vaginal environment and is associated with increased health risks.